Adventure Collective
Private Morning Whale Watching in Moss Landing, CA - Monterey

Private Morning Whale Watching in Moss Landing, CA

Moss Landingeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most physical fitness levels; no strenuous activity required but must be able to remain standing or seated on a small boat for the duration.

Overview

Join Slater Moore Photography for a private morning whale watch in Moss Landing, California. Capture close-up shots of orcas and humpbacks under the best morning light conditions while enjoying expert naturalist insights.

Moss Landing, California

Private Whale Watch | Morning

$550 Private Whale Watch Trip 1-2 Person

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Adventure Photos

Private Whale Watch | Morning photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a thrilling 2.5-hour private whale watching adventure in Monterey Bay, focusing on capturing stunning marine life photographs. Experience guaranteed whale sightings, including orcas and humpbacks, while enjoying ideal lighting and calm seas. With expert guidance from a naturalist, this unique trip promises unforgettable memories and breathtaking views.

PLEASE READ FULL DESCRIPTION

This is a 2.5hr PRIVATE whale watching trip with the main focus of photographing marine life on the Monterey Bay departing from Moss Landing, Ca.( You don't have to be a photographer)Its $550 for the boat you can come solo or with someone.

This trip is geared towards spending more time with whales during ideal lighting hours, and the calmest sea conditions of the day, for photography and enjoyment. The boat is fast so we can explore further in a shorter amount of time. I will work with you within the parameters of the marine life guidelines to help you capture a shot you won't forget.

What can we see?

We will be searching for a wide variety of wildlife including large Baleen whales, dolphins, Orcas, seabirds, and more! No Guarantees on any certain whale, however with that being said a whale sighting is guaranteed. If we don't see a whale I will give you a free pass for another trip. We will be searching for a wide variety of wildlife including large Baleen whales, dolphins, Orcas, seabirds, and more! No Guarantees on any certain whale, however with that being said, a whale sighting is guaranteed. If we don't see a whale, I will give you a free pass for another trip.

Sightings Through the Seasons:

Spring (Mid-March to Mid-May) The springtime is often referred to as killer whale season in Monterey Bay. Transient or Bigg’s killer whales gather in Monterey Bay to hunt migrating gray whales. Mid-April to mid-May is usually the peak time to observe these hunts on a trip. In addition to gray whales and killer whales, spring is when humpback whales start to return to feed for the year. We can also see a variety of dolphins and possibly blue whales and fin whales. Spring is also a great time for birding. Black-footed albatross are common, but it is also possible to see Laysan albatross, a variety of auks, shearwaters and more.

Summer (Mid May to October) The summer is feeding season in Monterey Bay. Humpback whales have settled in for the year and are feeding fish and krill for most of the summer season. This is also a good time to try your luck on spotting a blue whale. We can also see fin whales, a variety of dolphins species, sharks, turtles, birds and more.

Fall (October to December) This is my favorite time of year for whale watching in Monterey. There are still plenty of whales and dolphins around, but the lighting can also be incredible for photography. Humpbacks are still the main stay for the fall, but there can also be killer whales more often than the summer season.

Captain/Naturalist I will be on board as the captain/Naturalist and will be available to help give you photography advice if needed and teach you about the animals we are watching.

THE BOAT

The boat is a 20ft Cabo that was designed for you to capture the perfect shot.

The vessel is very stable with a low to the water perspective that can make you feel like you are right in the action. The back of the boat has a very open deck that will allow you to get low and capture eye-level shots that can take a photo from good to First-Class. This being said the seating is limited on the boat there will be lots of standing while we are moving it's more of an adventure but it's way more worth it than I can explain.

Bathroom This trip is 3Hrs. I want to let you know that there will not be a bathroom on board. If 3 hours feels too long without a restroom this trip might not be for you. There will be a restroom at the dock before boarding.

Age Restriction 12+ due to the limited seating and speed of the boat.

Weather Monterey is known to have weather out on the ocean. I will try my best to let you know days before if the ocean looks to be not pleasant for photography and whale watching. I will refund or reschedule if that's possible.

Camera Lens Recommendation: I personally like to use 100-400mm It's the best of close range and long distance in my opinion. The lens is the perfect size for whale watching when things can pop up anywhere. Do I need to be a photographer No. You can come out and just enjoy these amazing animals!

I look forward to exploring Monterey bay with you!

Adventure Tips

Dress in Layers

Mornings on the bay can be cool and breezy; layering keeps you comfortable throughout the trip.

Bring a Zoom Lens

A zoom lens of 200mm or more helps capture clear images of whales from a distance.

Use Non-Glare Sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses reduce glare off the water, improving visibility and comfort.

Stay Hydrated

Bring water to stay hydrated, especially during sunny mornings on the water.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Orcas
  • Humpback whales

History

Moss Landing has been a key hub for commercial fishing and marine research since the early 20th century.

Conservation

Local organizations actively monitor whale populations and protect their habitats to ensure the sustainability of marine wildlife tours.

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Adventure Hotspots in Monterey

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Layered Clothing

Essential

To stay warm during cool mornings and adapt as the temperature changes.

Polarized Sunglasses

Essential

Reduces sun glare on the water, improving visibility and eye comfort.

Waterproof Camera or Protective Cover

Essential

Protect your camera gear from splashes during the trip on the bay.

Reusable Water Bottle

Keeps you hydrated without adding waste during your adventure.