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.
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.
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.