Sanctuary Cruises, California, United States

5sewingnd2022 5:00 PM Oct 7, 2022

Whales Breaching Everywhere at a Feeding Frenzy
We've been whale watching at multiple places all over the world. Never have I ever seen so many whales in one location, doing all of the various whale activities that makes whale watching fascinating and amazing. The team knew not only a feeding frenzy was happening, but exactly where it was! When we got there, they provided lots of information about what we were seeing, but most importantly 1) they could almost predict when a whale would do a certain activity, and on which side of the boat (and then make sure everybody could see), and 2) let us stay a little longer because we were watching a 'once in a lifetime' occurrence, so they didn't mind behind a little late back to the dock. I called to talk to the company multiple times, and honestly, had the best conversations. They kindly answered all of my questions, and even directed me to Insta a few times because the boat had a live feed on just at that moment. The boat they operate is a small one, but it's way better for a whale watching experience - unlike some of the larger boats you'll see on the water. There are tons of seasickness meds on the boat, and you can even borrow a seasickness band for the ride. The only thing missing was something to fill the time between whale sightings. It's probably 30 minutes of travel time between whales. In other boats, they can use that time to educate you about the Bay, the uniqueness of why whales come to this particular part of the world, what to expect or to look for if you're whale watching for the first time. It makes the time pass a little faster, which is helpful when you have people whose enthusiasm for wildlife might be less than ours. We will 100% be going back with this boat in the future. If you're up in the air on which whale watching tour to go with, just stop looking, call this company, and book your next trip.

5Carla_2009 5:00 PM Oct 11, 2021

A great trip EVERY TIME
I travel to Moss Landing 3-4 times per year specifically to whale watch and every time with Sanctuary Cruises. The boat is small enough your super close to the water but big enough to cope with the bigger swells out in the bay. Since social distancing measures where introduced, and the boat was forced to reduce its capacity and increase its prices it has become ever better! with around 15 people per trip there is always plenty of room to stand and see the action and the captain is always great at positioning the boat for the best on going views. I take the 11am option and we are always out until 3, chasing up and down the bay where the action takes us, or just bobbing for a hour in the presence of a group of feeding humpbacks, or playful dolphins. Like all wildlife viewing you get good days and bad, of all the trips I've done every one has resulted in great sightings, including HumpBack, HArbor Porpoise, Mola Mola and Leatherback Turtle. With the addition of a reasonable priced new hotel the Inn at Moss Landing, you can stay right on the door step, walk to the boat, the multiple restaurants and the beach. A perfect destination ....yay