Los Angeles Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise from West Harbor

A whale and dolphin watching cruise departing from West Harbor in Los Angeles, with educators from the Aquarium of the Pacific sharing commentary and an optional visit to the Battleship USS Iowa.

This boat cruise sets out from West Harbor into the Pacific Ocean to look for whales on their migration. Along the route, the crew also watches for dolphins, sea lions and other marine animals that live in these waters. Educators from the Aquarium of the Pacific travel with the group and explain what passengers see.

The vessels are Harbor Breeze catamarans, a fleet of custom-built boats designed for stability and comfort. Their engines are quiet and low-emission, which the operator says keeps the animals and their habitat undisturbed. The captains and crew are experienced whale-watching professionals, so the outing suits visitors who want to observe wildlife without any prior boating or marine biology knowledge.

An add-on option pairs the cruise with a visit to the Battleship USS Iowa, where a museum occupies the ship. Visitors move through it at their own pace, walk the decks and browse interactive exhibits on naval history.