Whale Watching

In January, the Grey Whale migration is in full swing.  Thousands of the largest mammals on earth migrate from their frigid Arctic waters homelands to the warm lagoons of Baja California to birth their calves.

The 10,000-mile annual round trip made by the California Grey Whale, also known as the Eastern Pacific Gray Whale (Eschrichtius robustus), is the longest mammal migration in the world. Gray whales usually travel alone or in pods of two or three, and grays are relatively slow swimmers, so following them is relatively easy. Whale watchers in San Diego can enjoy the spectacle up close by joining one of the tours offered by experienced and knowledgeable guides aboard a variety of sea-going vessels. Some whale-watching businesses offer “non-sighting checks” so you can return free if the whales are shy that day. But there are many other things to see at sea, including seals, sea lions, dolphins, birds and kelp forests. The views of San Diego’s shoreline are gorgeous, too.

It’s an awesome sight when a whale breaches (propelling its entire body out of the water, then crashing down), and an even more exciting view when it spy hops (pops its head up vertically to look around). Your guide will help you figure out the breathing and diving rhythms of the whales you see, so be sure to bring your camera.  Whether you choose a kayak, an inflatable, a sailboat or a larger boat for your excursion, when you see a whale you can’t help admiring the size and agility of this spectacular creature.  It’s an amazing and unforgettable experience.

Here are a few tips to enjoying your adventure:

• Make reservations. Walk-ons may sometimes be accommodated, but why chance it?
• Dress warmly, in layers. It will always be colder out on the water than it is on the shore.
• Bring gloves or mittens (an extra pair of socks makes a good emergency substitute).
• Wear deck shoes or sneakers to avoid slipping on wet decks.
• Even if it isn't raining, smaller boats can kick up a spray. Bring a waterproof jacket with a hood.
• Wear sunscreen, no matter what the weather. Even if you sit in the shade, 60% of the sunlight bounces back up from the water's surface, and you can sunburn even under cloudy skies.
• Wear sunglasses. There’s glare on the water.
• Wear a hat or visor to shade your eyes.

If you are prone to motion sickness, also consider these tips:

• The earlier in the day you go, the smoother the ride will be. The wind often picks up and causes choppiness later in the day.
• Bring your favorite remedies with you.
• Eat lightly.

Here are some certified and experienced whale watching outfitters:

Adventure RIB Rides   Visitors can experience a thrilling whale watching excursion aboard an authentic 30' Navy SEAL Rigid Inflatable Boat (R.I.B.). Up to six passengers at a time will be riding close to the water (which enhances your adventure) in this very safe and stable boat. Speedy and maneuverable, R.I.B.s get you out to the whales quickly and "the R.I.B., similar to the ones used by Greenpeace, are considered less threatening than conventional whale watching vessels," says owner Ken Manzoni, an experienced natural history interpreter and licensed Coast Guard Captain. 619-808-2822  www.AdventureRibRides.com

H & M Landing  Among San Diego’s oldest sea-going companies, these folks made their first whale watching trips in the 50s. Their professional skippers spend most of the year out at sea so are very knowledgeable about the sea life and sea. If you arrive early, you can even browse The Landing’s resource library. All whale watchers receive a certificate; non-sightings trips get you a free return visit. Both 3-hour bay trips and 5-hour ocean trips to the Coronado Islands
are available, as are long trips to Baja. 619-222-1144. www.hmlanding.com

HORNBLOWER CRUISES & EVENTS  1066 N. Harbor Drive. How about wildlife with your skyline? On Hornblower’s North Bay tour or two hour cruises, see the Point Loma colony of sea lions, enjoy their antics, observe their habits and take many photos. Of course, you also get to admire the beautiful bay and the San Diego historic sites. Hornblower also features whale watching, nightly scenic dinner cruises and Sunday brunch cruises. 800-ONTHEBAY 619-686-8715. www.hornblower.com

La Jolla Kayak  Exploring in a kayak will bring you as close to the sea life as you can get without swimming.  Experienced guides lead you and your group mates to the whales on a 2½ hour excursion. Along the way, you’ll observe stunning reefs and marine life (like sea lions, garibaldi and leopard sharks) while exploring the spectacular, world-famous La Jolla Underwater Reserve. Whale watching is December 16th, 2006 – February 11th, 2007 at noon daily. Rates for the guided tour are: $60.00 per person (single kayak); $110 per couple (double kayak) 858-459-1114

SD Harbor Excursion  One of the most educationally focused tours, Harbor Excursion provides an on-board naturalist sharing artifacts, fact sheets and knowledge. Boats are made for comfortable sightseeing, with nice snack bar and a full galley. Choose morning or afternoon cruises. “Non-sighting” guarantee. For a longer adventure, a Nature Cruise to the Coronado Islands, beginning Dec. 28, on Thur-Sun gives you glimpses of elephant seals and rookeries during your 5 ½ -hour trip. $27-30 for adults, $15 for kids 4-12. The Nature Cruise is $50 for adults; $40 for kids. Use the coupon in the center of this magazine for whale watching, harbor tours and dinner cruise discounts. 619-234-4111. www.sdhe.com

SeaForth Boat Rental Some folks swear that boats without motors offer the best up-close whale watching and peace and serenity also. “Sometimes sealife comes right up next to the boat because they don’t hear a motor,” owner Serge Decort attests. Charter a 6-person ocean-going sailboat with skipper or join a group. Relax or even help sail the boat. Boats are kid-safe and comfortable. Leave on your 3-hour sail from either the Mission Bay location 619-223-1681 or downtown by Seaport Village 619-239-2628. $65 per person, lifejackets, snacks & drinks included. www.seaforthboatrental.com