MOSS LANDING WHALE WATCH FIELD GUIDE
Low-to-Water, Captain-Led Whale Searches out of Moss Landing
A private charter on Monterey Bay—half- or full-day options—guided by an experienced captain and licensed drone pilot for an intimate wildlife- and photo-focused expedition.
Low-to-Water, Captain-Led Whale Searches out of Moss Landing.
Adventure brief
Low-to-Water, Captain-Led Whale Searches out of Moss Landing
Embark from Moss Landing into the National Marine Sanctuary aboard a stable, low-to-water Stabicraft for a tailored private charter. With a seasoned captain who doubles as a licensed drone pilot and professional photographer, these half-day and full-day trips are designed for close encounters with humpbacks, blue and killer whales, dolphins, sea lions and seabirds in one of Monterey Bay’s most productive feeding hotspots.
Experience the thrill of a Private Whale Watching Expedition departing from Moss Landing, California, aboard an intimate, low-to-water charter perfect for families and groups. Guided by Oceanic Expeditions' seasoned captain and licensed drone pilot, you’ll cruise Monterey Bay in search of majestic whales, playful dolphins, and diverse seabirds. This personalized adventure offers flexible half-day or full-day options, ensuring plenty of time to encounter and capture incredible wildlife moments. The stable boat design provides comfort and excellent vantage points for photography, allowing you to snap stunning close-ups of breaching whales or soaring seabirds. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply exploring nature’s grandeur with close friends, this private charter offers a unique blend of excitement, education, and relaxation. Discover the wonders of Monterey Bay’s rich marine ecosystem with expert guidance that enriches the experience by sharing facts about the animals you see and their habitat. Prepare for memorable encounters in a setting where wildlife encounters are the main attraction, and each turn of the boat reveals new surprises on the Pacific waters.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Route Schematic
Typical stops follow a straightforward flow from boarding at Moss Landing to cruising Monterey Bay’s feeding hotspots and returning to port.
Board at Moss Landing (B Dock)
Guests meet and board at Moss Landing Marina, B Dock; the operator departs from this conveniently located harbor between Monterey and Santa Cruz.
Search the Monterey Bay Feeding Grounds
The captain navigates productive areas of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary where whales and other marine life congregate—especially active in summer months.
Onboard Viewing and Photography
Observers photograph and film wildlife from a stable, low‑to‑water platform; the captain/licensed drone pilot can assist with aerial footage as appropriate and permitted.
Routes and exact search areas are adjusted by the captain for safety and wildlife conditions; be prepared for motion on open water, and note limited restroom facilities (one onboard toilet and public marina restrooms).
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Sanctuary of Species
Monterey Bay is a feeding hotspot for humpback whales, a seasonal realm for blue whales, and home to killer whales year‑round; trips also encounter multiple dolphin species, sea lions, seals, porpoises, sea otters and a variety of seabirds.
Captain as Guide and Drone Pilot
Each private charter includes a local, experienced captain who is also a licensed drone pilot and professional photographer—ideal for groups seeking curated wildlife viewing and photographic angles.
Stable, Low-to-Water Viewing
The trip runs aboard a USCG‑certified Stabicraft that sits low to the water, offering comfortable, safe viewing and steady photography platforms for close-range wildlife observation.
What the day feels like
What the Expedition Feels Like
The outing is intimate and customizable: choose a half‑day or full‑day window and let the captain tailor the course across Monterey Bay’s productive feeding areas. Expect active searching for whales and dolphins, focused photography opportunities from a stable, low‑profile craft, and the option to incorporate drone filming under the operator’s licensed pilot.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private charter suits best.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring layered, windproof clothing, sun protection and a camera; if you’re susceptible to motion sickness, take medication (e.g., Dramamine) the day before or use ginger candy during the trip.
There is one toilet onboard the boat; public restrooms are also available at Moss Landing Marina—use them before departure if preferred.
Private charters are offered as half‑day trips (roughly 2.5–3 hours) or full‑day excursions (approximately 5 hours), allowing flexibility for shorter or extended outings.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long are the private charters?
You can choose a half‑day trip (about 2.5–3 hours) or a full‑day trip (around 5 hours).
Where do we meet for departure?
Trips depart from Moss Landing Marina—meet at 7881 Sandholdt Rd, B DOCK, Moss Landing, CA 95039.
How many people can join a private charter?
Private charters have a maximum capacity of six passengers.
Are drones allowed on the trip?
Yes; the captain is a licensed drone pilot and private charters are well suited to guests who wish to fly their own drones from the boat—coordinated with the operator.
What wildlife might we see and when?
Expect humpback whales (March–November), killer whales year‑round, blue whales in summer and fall, several dolphin species, sea lions, seals, porpoises, sea otters and many seabirds; minke and fin whales are also possible.
Is there a restroom onboard and how should I prepare for seasickness?
There is one toilet on the boat and public restrooms at the marina; if you're sensitive to motion, take motion sickness medication beforehand or use ginger candies during the trip as a natural aid.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-10T12:54:34.461Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.