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Whale watching book in advance ?

We will be visiting Pacific Grove/Monterey/carnel in April. Wondering if there are enough boats so that we can just wait and book when we arrive ( taking the weather into consideration) or wouid we have to book in advance ? There will just be the two of us.

Visiting Monterey and Pacific Grove in April is a great time for whale watching, as it is the tail end of the gray whale migration season and the start of other species appearing in the area. Whale watching tours are popular, especially on weekends and during spring break, so planning ahead can help ensure you get the date and time you want.

Here’s what to consider about booking:

  • Advance booking: Many operators recommend booking in advance, especially for popular mid-morning or afternoon departures. Even for just two people, spots can fill up quickly during busy periods in April.
  • Weather considerations: Tours can be canceled last minute due to rough seas or fog, so some travelers prefer to book flexible tickets or wait to confirm the day-of. Many companies allow rescheduling or offer refunds for weather cancellations.
  • Availability: While there are multiple operators in Monterey and Pacific Grove, boats have limited capacity. Popular operators may sell out, especially for larger vessels or weekend trips.

Tips for your trip:

  • Check the websites or call local whale watching operators in advance to see if they offer flexible reservations or same-day availability options.
  • Consider booking early in the week if possible to avoid weekend crowds.
  • Dress warmly and in layers, as it can be cold and windy on the water, even in April.
  • If flexibility is important, ask about cancellation policies for weather so you can plan around conditions.

In summary, while it is sometimes possible to book on arrival, booking in advance is generally recommended to secure your preferred time and operator. Choose tours with flexible weather policies if you want to minimize the risk of last-minute cancellations due to rough seas.

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