Savor champagne and spectacular sunsets aboard the vintage Schooner Curlew in Dana Point. Discover how this scenic sailing experience blends luxury with adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical effort required beyond boarding and walking on deck.
Wildlife
History
The Schooner Curlew, built in 1926, is one of the few remaining classic yachts of its era, reflecting Dana Point's rich maritime history.
Conservation
Dana Point preserves its coastal environment through protected marine zones and supports responsible eco-tourism to maintain sustainable ocean health.
Dana Wharf Whale Watching & Sportfishing
Savor champagne and spectacular sunsets aboard the vintage Schooner Curlew in Dana Point. Discover how this scenic sailing experience blends luxury with adventure.
Dana Wharf Whale Watching & Sportfishing, based in Dana Point, California, operates whale-watching, sportfishing, and harbor cruise experiences departing from Dana Point Harbor. The company offers a diverse range of ocean outings for families, anglers, birders, and sightseers, emphasizing comfortable vessels and memorable marine encounters.
Whale-watching options include the EPIC Whale Watching 4 Hour Adventure aboard the fast, comfortable New San Mateo with a strict 12-passenger limit for an intimate wildlife experience. That EPIC adventure highlights the Gray Whale migration and may include sightings of humpback whales, fin whales, and multiple dolphin species. Pelagic Bird Watching runs as a six-hour expedition on a fast catamaran with a local bird expert guiding the search for pelagic birds, whales, and dolphins.
Sportfishing offerings range from half-day fishing trips—designed for all skill levels with friendly crew support, limited capacity, and onboard food and drinks—to a 3/4 Day 9 Hour Fishing Trip targeting seasonal species such as tuna, halibut, and yellowtail while drifting offshore.
Dana Wharf also presents special-event cruises: Live Music Harbor Cruises aboard the 95' Dana Pride, Champagne & Sunset Sails on the historic 1926 Schooner Curlew, Fourth of July dinner cruises with prime fireworks views, a 60-minute Evening Holiday Harbor Cruise on select December dates, and a Father’s Day Dinner Cruise with live acoustic music, BBQ, and beer tasting. Family programming includes Story Time with Nona, limited to 15 children plus parents with a make-and-take craft and live streaming.
All experiences depart from Dana Point Harbor and combine local knowledge, comfortable vessels, and a focus on enjoyable ocean experiences across skill levels.
Location
Dana Point, CA
Departures from Dana Point Harbor
Intimate Cruises
12 max
Small-group whale watching available
Trip Lengths
60–9 hrs
Short harbor to full-day trips
Historic Schooner
1926
Schooner Curlew built in 1926
Reserve a seat on whale watches, fishing trips, or harbor cruises departing from Dana Point Harbor — limited capacity trips fill quickly.
Arrive Early to Settle In
Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to check in and get comfortable on board.
Dress in Layers
Evenings can get cool on the water, so bring a light jacket or sweater to stay warm after sunset.
Limit Footwear to Non-Slip Shoes
Wear boat-appropriate shoes with good grip to ensure safety while moving on deck.
Protect Your Electronics
Bring waterproof cases or bags for your phone and camera to shield them from sea spray.
Light Windbreaker or Jacket
Keeps you warm during cooler evenings on the water.
fall
Non-Slip Boat Shoes
Provides safety and stability while walking on the deck.
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Protects your eyes from glare off the ocean and setting sun.
summer
Waterproof Camera Case
Safeguards your electronics from seawater and spray.