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Whale and Dolphin watching in Orange County CA
Whale Watching in Orange County CA

Unmatched 2hr Whale & Dolphin Watching Experience

Duration: 120–150 minutes

Going with a licensed naturalist guide not only ensures a safe and sustainable experience but gives you the best chance of locating and observing the area’s whales and dolphins. Do not forget your camera: The speedboat offers sweeping views of Orange County and the Pacific.

  • Small group size ensures an intimate experience and a VIP seat to view wildlife.
  • Coast Guard-licensed captain and custom designed, commercial boat ensures a safe, speedy trip to wildlife.
  • Certified Naturalist Guide’s trained eye helps locate whales and dolphins.
  • Enjoy panoramic views of the California coastline.
  • This experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • Free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Christmas Boat Parade Tour with EMW Whale Watching

Come Celebrate the 2023 Holidays with Us!

Make your reservation today for the 115th Annual 2023 Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. East Meets West is offering 90 minute private tours each night of the parade departing at 6pm and 8pm, Wednesday December 13th through Sunday December 17th. Only your group, a maximum of 6 people, will be onboard. Tours are $495 Wednesday and Thursday, $550 Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, hailed as “one of the top ten holiday happenings in the nation” by the New York Times, is truly a magical holiday tradition for all ages. This parade is a premier event in Southern California each holiday season.

We also offer Newport Beach holiday light tours for $395 each night throughout December at 6pm to 8pm except for the nights of the boat parade.

Don’t miss Newport Beach’s most celebrated events of the year and make holiday memories with family and friends. Our custom designed center console is the perfect vessel to guide you along Newport Harbor for a front-row seat to the beautifully decorated yachts and ornate harborside houses.

“I’ve gone on larger boat for whale watching tours and I’m never going back. Having a smaller boat allows us to go faster and see more, also it’s more private than a crowded ship. Captain Nick was positively fantastic. He really knows the waters and well as the aquatic life.”


Alexandra I. Huntington Beach, California

East Meets West Christmas Boat Parade
  • Private Charters Only are available.
  • Daily trips have a 6-passenger maximum to provide you comfort and personal attention.
  • Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade will set the harbor ablaze for five consecutive nights.
  • Daily Trips are at 6pm and at 8pm (90-minute sessions) during boat parade week.

Many of the boats are richly decorated with animated Christmas scenes accompanied by music and costumed carolers. Some boat owners in the past have spent over $50,000 to decorate their vessels for the event.

Private whale watching charter in Orange County CA
Private charter tours with EMW Whale Watching

Private 2hr Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour. Never Crowded.

Your certified naturalist captain provides illuminating commentary about these fascinating animals for a more enriching tour experience.

  • Enjoy the personalized experience of a private tour
  • Faster ride to, and closer views of wildlife in a small commercial vessel
  • See whales and dolphins in their natural habitat
  • Watch the sunset from an ideal vantage point*
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • This experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate (up to 6 people)
  • Special promotion for $375 (retail value $534)
  • All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties

WHAT TO BRING OR KEEP IN MIND FOR YOUR TRIP

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Dress code is comfortable. Bring an extra jacket or sweatshirt and sunblock.
  • Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Most travelers can participate
  • Infants must sit on laps
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers in 3rd trimester
  • If we cancel due to poor weather or unforeseen circumstances you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • There is a six passenger maximum
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RANKED #1 ON TRIP ADVISOR FOR YEARS

A PREMIERE WHALE AND DOLPHIN WATCHING EXPERIENCE LIKE NONE OTHER!