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Capt. Dave's Blog

Dolphins

Are There Orcas in California?

While most people with whale watching aspirations might expect to see orcas while whale watching in the Pacific Northwest, it can be a surprise to learn that California orcas exist too! It can be dazzling to see whales and dolphins in the wild and some of the sea’s superstars are the killer whales so many…

What Weather is Best for Whale Watching?

Why should you book a whale watching trip in Dana Point? Over 275 days of sunshine each year earns Orange County the title for the best weather for whale watching. No matter what day you choose to go, it is likely you will be surrounded by sunshine and moderate whale watching weather. In our humble opinion, the best time…

What Does an Experienced Whale Watcher Have in Their Go Bag?

Did you just book a whale watching trip? And, are you already feeling excited about what you may see on your trip but aren’t sure what to bring on whale watching day? Experienced whale watchers anxiously await sighting their favorite animals and know rare sightings can happen at a moment’s notice. These feelings are one…

Winter Whale Watching Wonders Not to be Missed!

From dolphin and whale watching safaris, premiere Southern California Christmas boat parades, and a hometown holiday light exhibit that will have your social media accounts poppin’, check out our list of Southern California Christmas events not to miss list! Fun in the California sun this winter isn’t just saying – it’s the real deal and…

Whale Watching Tips for Kids

The sound of children’s laughter wafts through the open ocean air as the crest of the wave across the boat’s bow. Dolphins porpoise out of the water, and as the giant whale spouts can be seen in the distance, the sounds of children laughing, clapping, and cheering become infectious. Does this sound like an experience…

10 Things That Are Amazing About Risso’s Dolphins

Odontocetes make up a vast group of dolphins, whales, and porpoises with one common characteristic; they all have teeth instead of baleen. Seventy-three different species of toothed whales make up this category. Grampus griseus, commonly known as Risso’s dolphins, maybe the most unique. Keep reading below to find out ten amazing facts about dolphins that are unlike…

Can You See Whales from the Shore in Dana Point?

Seeing whales from the shore is not an uncommon sighting and has made Dana Point, California, the Whale Watching Capital of the World®. South Orange County is home to some of the country’s best whale watching off Dana Point because our oceans are filled to the brim with various species of dolphins and whales, pinnipeds,…

What Should You Look for When Watching Whales?

More than 139,397,000 miles of salty seawater cover just over 70% of planet earth. With so many miles of ocean, it can feel overwhelming just thinking about how to spot whales amongst the vast miles of waves and swell. Searching what can feel like an endless sea, looking for any sign of life, can be…

Are Whale Watches Fun?

Have you ever wondered, “is whale watching worth it?” According to the Animal Welfare Institute, “…over 13 million people across over 100 countries go whale watching every year.” So, is whale watching fun? Yes! “To have a huge, friendly whale willingly approach your boat and look you straight in the eye is, without doubt, one of the most…

10 Things That Are Amazing About Pacific White-Sided Dolphins

The Pacific white-sided dolphin has so many standout characteristics – we can’t wait to share with you “b-low! Often referred to as “Lags,” a shortened version of their scientific name Lagenorhynchus obliquidens, these vivacious and gregarious bi-colored oceanic dolphins have striking blackish grey and white markings and always wear a friendly smile you won’t forget. Passengers often…