Standing on a small boat as a 100-foot, 200-ton leviathan swims towards it is not an experience that can be forgotten easily. With a heart about the size of a small car, blue whales are the largest animals in existence, and would even dwarf the largest dinosaur. It is no wonder that whale-watching tours are put together just to view these majestic creatures as they migrate passed the San Diego's coast.
History
Although once endangered due to the large demand of whale products throughout the world, whale watching can be said to have contributed in a mass mental change. The whale watching industry began off the coasts of San Diego in the 1950s, when, according to Pinnacle Travel, "the Carbillo National Monument in San Diego was declared a public spot for the observation of Gray Whales." Boat excursions soon followed as the popularity of watching some of the largest animals on earth grew. The interest in whale watching grew so much that it is estimated to be an industry in the billions--a far cry from the original $1 trips.
Time of Migration
As warmer temperatures begin to set into waters in the northern hemisphere, Blue and Grey whales begin their migration towards the Pacific off the Mexican coast to bred. This from December through April. As the temperatures begin to cool, they travel back up the Pacific coast following krill. This lasts from April to November. Although Mexican whale-watching excursions can only view this phenomenon once a year, San Diego gets the opportunity to watch whales about twice a year.
Essentials
Although most San Diego whale-watching vessels are able to bring their boats close enough to see whales up close, there are some things worth bringing on the trip besides a good pair of glasses. If you are prone to seasickness--or don't know yet if you are--pack some motion-sickness pills. Bring comfortable shoes that will allow you to walk on deck and stand for a while. Since the sea off the San Diego coast is unpredictable, bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a jacket. Pack binoculars to get a close-up view of the whales. Although it can never compare to the live experience, bring a camera to commemorate this moment.
Average Prices and Length of Trips
Prices vary from company to company. But as of 2010, for example, Captain Dave's Dolphin and Whale Safari, which includes a catamaran, offers a 2-1/2 to 3-hour excursion for $55 for adults and $35 for kids. Santa Cruz Whale Watching provides 3- to 4-hour trips from $42.95 for adults to $29.95 for kids. New Port Landing Whale Watching provides a 2-1/2 hour service for $30 for adults and $25 for children and seniors.
Potential
Many whales make this long trek passed the coast of San Diego. Some of these include the grey whale which can grow to a size of 50 feet and weigh about 35 tons. The grey whale is known to swim close to boats to people watch. The humpback whale also follows this migration path. At 40 to 50 feet and 80,000 lbs, these whales may not be the largest in the sea, but travel quite a distance from their Arctic waters. Sperm whales are known to have both the largest teeth and brain of any living animal. You may also encounter the north Pacific right whale, common minke whale, dolphins, seals and, on rare occasions, sharks.
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