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Capt. Dave's Blog

Orange County

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…

Are Blue Whales Friendly?

May is the unofficial start to blue whale season, and seeing one of the world’s magnificent gentle giants roaming free in the sea may be rare in other parts of the world, but right here in Dana Point, California, we anxiously await this time of year! If you wonder, “are blue whales friendly” and are…

6 Things That Are Amazing About Minke Whales

Ever heard of a minke whale (pronounced mink-eee)? Minkes may be one of the smallest of the great rorqual whales, but they are swift and sweet and the minke whale facts we can’t wait to share with you are sure to make you fall in love with these amazing animals. Minkes are curious creatures and can sometimes…

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…

What Do You Wear and What to Bring on a Whale Watching Tour

Whether you are planning an upcoming trip or you already have one booked and you’re ready to climb aboard, there are a few essentials for boating you’ll ‘dolphinately‘ want to bring with you on the day of your dolphin and whale watching experience. To ensure the best whale watching possible, be sure to read our list below of…

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…