MOSS LANDING ECO TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Silent Catamaran Through a Sea-Otter Realm
A narrated, electric-powered catamaran cruise through Moss Landing’s Elkhorn Slough that lets you watch southern sea otters, sea lions and shorebirds in unusually quiet, low-impact conditions.
Silent Catamaran Through a Sea-Otter Realm.
Glide along one of California’s largest tidal waterways aboard an electric-powered catamaran and peer into the reed-lined channels of Elkhorn Slough, where quiet engines and a narrated guide place wildlife — most notably the world’s largest population of southern sea otters — at the center of the trip.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Southern Sea Otters in Numbers and Behavior
Elkhorn Slough supports the largest population of southern sea otters in the world, with a resident population around 100 individuals; on this tour guides regularly point out otters eating, sleeping and foraging throughout the cruise.
A Purpose-Built Electric Catamaran
The tour runs aboard a fully electric, 37-foot catamaran custom built in 2019 so passengers hear the slough and its wildlife without fossil-fueled engines, creating an immersive, low-noise experience.
Tidal Wetland Ecology at Moss Landing
The narrated cruise threads through the peaceful waters of Elkhorn Slough along Highway 1 between Santa Cruz and Monterey, offering views of sea lions, diverse birdlife and the tidal channels that shape this lively wetland.
What the day feels like
What the Cruise Feels Like
This is a relaxed, narrated wildlife cruise: passengers board in Moss Landing, settle onto a stable, enclosed deck and move quietly through the slough’s tidal waterways while guides scan for otters, sea lions and birds and interpret the shifting ecology.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this outing and who should consider alternatives.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Tours run for 1 hour and 30 minutes; arrive at least 20 minutes before the scheduled departure to check in.
Meet at 10932 Clam Way, Moss Landing, CA; the boat departs on schedule.
Dress in layers as coastal weather can change rapidly; bring a camera and binoculars if possible; seasickness worry is minimal because the slough is flat calm and the boat is very stable.
A minimum of eight passengers is required to run the tour; the vessel is USCG-certified, children are allowed, service animals are permitted and a ramp can be provided for wheelchair access.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What makes this tour different?
The tour operates aboard a fully electric, custom-built catamaran that delivers a quieter, more immersive wildlife experience without fossil-fueled engines.
When is the best time to go?
Anytime is a good time: mornings often offer calmer winds and better light; afternoons may be sunnier but windier; sunset trips give strong light and reduced human activity. Tide timing affects wildlife behavior—low tides often concentrate rafting otters and active shorebird feeding, while high tides can bring pelagic species and active otter feeding.
How early should I arrive?
Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to check in and use the restroom before boarding.
Are children allowed on board?
Yes; children of all ages are allowed. The vessel is an extremely stable, USCG-certified platform and every person must have a ticket to board.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are allowed on all trips; non-service pets should be left at home unless you book a private charter.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Yes. A ramp can be set up on request for stepless entry and the open-concept design accommodates passengers of all ages and abilities.