Whale Watching Tours & Trip Packages
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ToursWhale Watching

Whale Watching Tours & Trips

7 Whale Watching trips. Tours from 11 tour companies. 107 reviews. 5/5 avg rating.

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7 Trips match your criteria (1 - 7 shown)

Best of Alaska

Best of Alaska

By Intrepid Travel
premier
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Alaska, Anchorage, Chugach Mountains, Denali, Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward, Valdez

Highlights

  • Head out on an Alaskan safari for a unique chance to see moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves in their natural habitat in Denali National Park.
  • Take a boat cruise on Resurrection Bay to Kenai Fjords and look out for orca whales, porpoises and puffins before enjoying some free time to hike or relax.
  • Discover Seward, one of Alaska's oldest and most scenic communities, then take a short hike to the tongue of Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park.
  • Sit back and take in stunning views along the dramatic coastlines of the Turnagain Arm from Anchorage to Homer, then from Seward to Denali National Park, while someone else does the driving.
  • On the way to charming Talkeetna, take a breath in Girdwood, where you’ll hop on the Alyeska Aerial Tram to the top of Mt Alyeska and see some incredible views of seven glaciers and the valley below.
Show more

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
-19%$6,753
10 days From$5,490
More
At World's End: Embrace the Biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands | August 27, 2022

At World's End: Embrace the Biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands | August 27, 2022

By Culture Trip
none
5/5 Excellent
12 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Galapagos

Highlights

  • Snorkel, kayak and stand-up paddleboard in the Itabaca Channel
  • Sleep alongside giant tortoises in El Chato nature reserve
  • Hike along lava trails and encounter spectacular birdlife on San Cristóbal
  • Swim with sea lions at Punta Carola Beach
  • Explore remote, uninhabited islands

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Nature & Wildlife, Photography, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"A Culture Trip curated trip is a must for anyone burnt out planning their own trips or going to a remote or unfamiliar area. Having a local insider was the highlight of the trip. From the moment we landed to the moment we had to go through security to leave, we were completely taken care of. Our insider gave us great recommendations for restaurants and was very adaptable to any situation that arose."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5 days From$1,999
Price updated 1 year+ ago
More
Cradle of the Grey Whale: Baja California Uncovered

Cradle of the Grey Whale: Baja California Uncovered

By Audley Travel
preferred
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

California, La Paz, Mexico City

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"It's hard to describe how lucky we are to have been able to work with Stephanie in planning our honeymoon to Japan. From the very beginning, Stephanie was friendly, flexible, and an absolute wealth of knowledge. We had several meetings with her leading up to our trip to come up with the perfect itinerary. Throughout this, Stephanie was mindful of our budget, without sacrificing anything. During our trip, Audley was available at all hours to help with anything and everything which was such a relief to know we had that resource available to us. I truly cannot imagine having planned this trip without all of Stephanie's guidance and knowledge- and cannot imagine taking another big trip like this without the help of Audley. Thank you again!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
14 days From$5,554
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Untamed Iceland

Untamed Iceland

By Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T. Tours)
none
1/5 Terrible
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Blue Lagoon, Lake Myvatn, Reykjavík, Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Highlights

  • Visit a local horse farm to meet affable Icelandic horses first brought to the country by Viking settlers
  • Discover some of Iceland's Saga-like history at the Settlement Center in Borgarnes.
  • Enjoy views of colorful mountain cliffs, pristine fjords, and fertile valleys where horses graze.
  • Visit a museum dedicated to this once-thriving industry before returning to Akureyri.
  • Visit the stunning Gullfoss waterfall
Show more

Themes

Cultural, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
12 days From$4,495
Price updated 1 year+ ago
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Whales & Wildness: Spring in the Sea of Cortez

Whales & Wildness: Spring in the Sea of Cortez

By National Geographic Expeditions
preferred
3.5/5 Great
30 reviews
Small Ship Cruise
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Mexico City

Highlights

  • Spring in the Sea of Cortez is the best time to see large pods of dolphins and various species of whales—blue, sperm, pilot, fin, humpback and Bryde’s—all in the same week.
  • Explore water-level caves by kayak, hike uninhabited beaches, snorkel among fish and acrobatic sea lions, and see colorful cactus blossoms.
  • Visit the old mining town of Santa Rosalia, with its wooden homes and historic steel church, designed by Gustave Eiffel.
  • Experience a voyage of pure discovery in a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a flexible itinerary and sites chosen by the region’s most knowledgeable staff, based on conditions and to maximize wildlife sightings.

Themes

Education / Learning, High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"We booked a National Geographic expedition Holland and Belgium by River. The promotional literature promised a 14-day deposit refund window. The “invoice” was marked “non-refundable” deposit. We completed the National Geographic Traveler Information. About 8 days later we received the “Travel Agreement” to be signed. We both approved and signed the National Geographic documents. A Cruise Line Travel agreement was enclosed but had no signature line. This document contained language which was unacceptable. We submitted the signed NatGeo documents. The following day we canceled the trip due to the unacceptable Cruise Line language. Cancellation was made 12 days after booking and no deposit was returned. We were told on the phone that the refund deadline was triggered by the 14 day window OR signatures on the Travel Agreement which ever came first. This was NEW information. To date, we have received NO refund of our $1000. We cancelled our trip within the advertised 14 day window."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
8 days From$5,990
Price updated 1 year+ ago
More
Cape Cod & the Islands

Cape Cod & the Islands

By Globus
none
4.7/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Very Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Boston, Plymouth

Highlights

  • Boston: Sightseeing with a Local Guide including, the Old North Church; harbor cruise
  • Plymouth: Visit Plimoth Plantation; visit a working cranberry bog
  • Hyannis: Orientation tour; see the John F. Kennedy Memorial and St. Francis Xavier Church; traditional lobster dinner
  • Nantucket: Sightseeing with a Local Guide; visit the Whaling Museum
  • Cape cod: Cape Cod National Seashore
Show more

Themes

50 plus, Cultural

What travelers are saying

"This tour has amazing sites, good hotels in great locations, great pace BUT the tour director that was assigned to be with our small group added nothing to the experience. He did not give us any info, tell us about what we were seeing, give us any info at all. The only time he talked was to tell us when the next bathroom break would be. Apparently this is common for Globus to use retirees starting another chapter. Our guide was 76 and had no energy. Travel with Gate 1 or Intreped.... guides can make or break a tour."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
8 days From$3,689
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Go Wild in the Galapagos Islands

Go Wild in the Galapagos Islands

By Culture Trip
none
5/5 Excellent
12 reviews
Group Tour
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Galapagos

Highlights

  • Snorkel, kayak and stand-up paddleboard in the Itabaca Channel
  • Sleep alongside giant tortoises in El Chato nature reserve
  • Hike along lava trails and encounter spectacular birdlife on San Cristóbal
  • Swim with sea lions at Punta Carola Beach
  • Explore remote, uninhabited islands

Themes

Cultural, High Adventure, Nature & Wildlife, Trekking & Expeditions, Photography, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"A Culture Trip curated trip is a must for anyone burnt out planning their own trips or going to a remote or unfamiliar area. Having a local insider was the highlight of the trip. From the moment we landed to the moment we had to go through security to leave, we were completely taken care of. Our insider gave us great recommendations for restaurants and was very adaptable to any situation that arose."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5 days From$1,999
Price updated 1 year+ ago
More
Other trips you may like [sponsored]
Best of Alaska

Best of Alaska

By Intrepid Travel
premier
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Why we love them
They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Alaska, Anchorage, Chugach Mountains, Denali, Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward, Valdez

Highlights

  • Head out on an Alaskan safari for a unique chance to see moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves in their natural habitat in Denali National Park.
  • Take a boat cruise on Resurrection Bay to Kenai Fjords and look out for orca whales, porpoises and puffins before enjoying some free time to hike or relax.
  • Discover Seward, one of Alaska's oldest and most scenic communities, then take a short hike to the tongue of Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park.
  • Sit back and take in stunning views along the dramatic coastlines of the Turnagain Arm from Anchorage to Homer, then from Seward to Denali National Park, while someone else does the driving.
  • On the way to charming Talkeetna, take a breath in Girdwood, where you’ll hop on the Alyeska Aerial Tram to the top of Mt Alyeska and see some incredible views of seven glaciers and the valley below.
Show more

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
-19%$6,753
10 days From$5,490
More

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Whale Watching Reviews & Ratings

5/5  Excellent
107  Reviews
Write a review
See all Whale Watching tour reviews
Excellent
22
Great
0
Average
0
Disappointing
0
Terrible
0
E

Eric

Oct 2019

Written on

A Close Encounter of the Orca Kind

I have been on this trip 3 different time, and each time has been unique, and so amazing. The guides were so great, and knowledgeable, the food was fantastic, and th...

Tour:  Blackfish Waters Orca Kayak Tour

K

Kimmie

Sep 2019

Written on

This was one of the best vacations I have ever gone on

This was one of the best vacations I have ever gone on. It was amazing to see the humpbacks slapping their tails and orca swimming by our base camp every evening. Bu...

Tour:  Blackfish Waters Orca Kayak Tour

L

Lin Teichman

Aug 2019

Written on

Best Trip Ever

This trip exceeded all expectations for a kayaking trip. Not only were the guides wonderful, the food amazing and the participants fun, but the sheer numbers of whal...

Tour:  Blackfish Waters Orca Kayak Tour

M

Michelle

Jul 2019

Written on

Incredible Kayaking with Orcas

If you're looking for an opportunity to kayak with whales, specifically orcas, this is an incredible adventure. Not only did we get the opportunity to see orcas from...

Tour:  Blackfish Waters Orca Kayak Tour

J

Jimbo

Sep 2018

Written on

Amazing Johnstone Straight Experience - Kayaking, Fun, Wildlife, great food, beautiful location

We recently took the Orca Base Camp trip with Sea Kayak Adventures. It was amazing. Yes its camping. We were well taken care of and got to paddle in this pristin...

Tour:  Blackfish Waters Orca Kayak Tour

See all Whale Watching reviews

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Whale Watching Tour Selection Trips

  • Whale watching is possible year round, though the farther north you go, summer is typically the best season.
  • While your tour will do their best to find a pod, it's never a guarantee that you'll witness a breach. However if you plan accordingly and travel during the best months, your chances are very good.
  • Seas can be very choppy so if you get seasick be sure to take appropriate precautions. A good tour guide should have remedies available.
  • Be careful with nice camera equipment! While nothing beats getting that perfect shot, you will be out on the water for extended periods of time, so watch out for sea water, and keep your camera well protected.

Additional details

Top Whale Watching Travel Companies
Collette Reviews
Intrepid Travel Reviews
Trafalgar Reviews
Exodus Travels Reviews
Peregrine Adventures Reviews
Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T. Tours) Reviews
Audley Travel Reviews
National Geographic Expeditions Reviews
Tauck Reviews
Globus Reviews
Culture Trip Reviews

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