DRINKS TOURS · WHALE WATCHING
Good whale watching tours sell out weeks ahead and the great ones go first. Below: the 8 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Review of Sea Maui’s Ka’anapali whale-watching cruise, with open bar, naturalist commentary, beach boarding, pricing, tips, and honest pros and cons.
“Captain knew where to position us for the best view, and kept a respectful distance from the whales. Crew was friendly and drinks and snacks were plentiful.”
Review of Tenerife’s 5-hour catamaran tour to Los Gigantes and Masca, with whale watching, swimming, lunch, drinks, and practical tips.
“Lovely crew, really knowledgeable and environmentally conscious. We saw pilot whales, dolphins and a turtle! The boat has some lovely beanbags in the front and only 2 people can sit there at one time. Passengers should be more collegiate Read more”
Sea Maui’s Kaanapali whale cruise pairs close humpback sightings, expert guides, island views, and an open bar for $103.
“We had a great crew- Travis, Jenny and Mario made it a great time, They served up great drinks and good times. We got to see a lot of whales and even got to hear them. The crew was very fun and it was the highlight of my trip!”
Review of Hermanus land-based whale watching with Dave de Beer, including the museum, cliff path, price, timing, value, and booking advice.
“We had a brilliant morning with Dave who is extremely knowledgeable and very personable. Highly recommended.”
Review of Cebu’s 14-hour whale shark, Sumilon sand bar, sardine run, and turtle tour, with honest advice on timing, value, and crowds.
“This was a very good tour! My pick-up time for my day tour ended up being an hour earlier, but I was provided notice that it was to help ensure the whale shark watching experience would actually happen since there were so many tourists - I appreciated that! My driver picked me up on-time and arrived at Oslob as expected. The whale shark experience was unbelievable - truly amazing! The sandbar wasn't great - the photos don't show you that there are many other people on the beach and it takes away from the experience. The Moalboal snorkeling activity was awesome - I had a great guide who ensured I'd…”
Review of Cabo San Lucas whale watching by two-level boat, with breakfast, drinks, Arch views, practical tips, and honest value advice.
“We saw several whales - a couple even breached for us. The staff were attentive and welcoming. The breakfast was better than expected.”
Review the Boracay Red Whale Party Cruise, with snacks, DJ music, sunset views, snorkeling, kayaks, paddleboards, and a waterslide.
“So much fun!! Great staff, really attentive and so much fun! Really create a great atmosphere. All very good at taking pictures!! Speedboat, paddle boards, kayaks, snorkel gear, cocktails and cocktails included as well as water and small plates! Really good value for money! Bring a bit of cash for tips! 100% worth it! A lot of fun if you are celebrating or just want a bit of fun Various different group sizes, big groups, couples, a few people alone”
Review of Maui’s 2.5-hour Ka'anapali whale watch with open bar, gourmet pupus, expert crew, and a 35-person catamaran.
“The crew was great and made it extra fun! Cpt Matt and Gavin were especially attentive and enjoyable. It was a perfect day and saw lots of whale activity, so no complaints. Only thing I was missing was jumping in and swimming it was so hot! All around will recommend and do again with future family and visiting friends. Mahalo!”
Boat, brewery, crawl or tasting room.
