Whale watching

Question

First trip to Monterey area in July and would like to do a whale watch tour… and recommendations or tips?

Answer

Monterey is one of the best places for whale watching in California, especially in July when you have a good chance of seeing blue whales, humpback whales, and other marine life like sea lions, dolphins, and seabirds. The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary makes the waters rich in food, attracting many species of whales during the summer months.

Here are some tips and recommendations for a whale-watching trip:

Book early: July is a popular month, so it’s best to book your tour in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Choose the right tour operator: Look for companies with experienced naturalists and good reviews. They usually provide binoculars, spotting scopes, and educational commentary during the trip.
Time of day: Morning tours tend to have calmer waters and better chances of seeing whales feeding. Afternoon trips are fine too, but winds may pick up.
Dress appropriately: Even in July, it can be chilly and windy on the water. Wear layers, a windbreaker, and consider a hat and sunglasses.
Motion sickness: If anyone in your group is prone to seasickness, bring medication or wristbands as the bay can be choppy at times.
Photography: Use a zoom lens if you want close-up shots, and keep in mind the whales may surface quickly and at a distance.
Duration: Tours typically last 2–4 hours, giving plenty of time to see marine life without feeling rushed.

Popular and well-reviewed tour operators in Monterey include:

Monterey Bay Whale Watch
Princess Monterey Whale Watching
Captain Dave’s Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari

Other tips:

Check the cancellation policy in case of rough weather; trips can be rescheduled.
Bring snacks and water, although many boats may offer refreshments for purchase.
Combine with a visit to Cannery Row or the Monterey Bay Aquarium to make a full day of your outing.

Overall, whale watching in Monterey in July is a fantastic experience, with high chances of spotting blue whales and other marine wildlife, so plan for calm clothing, morning departure if possible, and enjoy the rich marine environment of Monterey Bay.

Whale watching

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