Set sail from Moss Landing on a private charter to see whales, dolphins, and seabirds up close. Choose from half- or full-day trips for a personal wildlife adventure.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; mostly seated with gentle movement on board.
Wildlife
History
Moss Landing has a long history as a fishing village and marine research hub, contributing valuable knowledge to marine conservation.
Conservation
Oceanic Expeditions practices eco-friendly tours that minimize disturbance to wildlife and support local marine protected areas.
Oceanic Expeditions
Set sail from Moss Landing on a private charter to see whales, dolphins, and seabirds up close. Choose from half- or full-day trips for a personal wildlife adventure.
Oceanic Expeditions operates out of Moss Landing, California, offering guided whale watching and marine wildlife charters in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. The company runs a range of trips including Extended Whale Watching Expedition, Private Whale Watching Expedition, Extended Orca Focused Expedition, and Whale Watching Expedition. Each trip departs from Moss Landing aboard a stable, low-to-water boat that provides close-to-the-surface viewing and steady platforms for photography. Captains are described as experienced and guides include a photographer on some trips; private charters add a licensed drone pilot option. Trips emphasize sightings of humpback whales, killer whales (orca), blue whales, playful dolphins, and sea lions, as well as diverse seabirds. Extended itineraries offer longer time on the water for improved sighting opportunities, while private charters allow half-day or full-day custom schedules for groups. The Extended Orca Focused Expedition highlights year-round chances to encounter killer whales in Monterey Bay. Safety and comfort are prioritized with stable vessels and knowledgeable crew familiar with local conditions. Photography-focused guidance and drone capability support guests who want to capture wildlife moments. Oceanic Expeditions operates from a recognized gateway to Monterey Bay, providing direct access to productive feeding and migration corridors within the Sanctuary. The company’s offerings are presented as inclusive for families and photographers seeking memorable, educational marine wildlife experiences.
Tours accommodate photographers, families, and small private groups year-round.
Location
Moss Landing, CA
Gateway to Monterey Bay Sanctuary
Boat Type
Stable low-to-water
Close-to-surface viewing for photographers
Tours Offered
4 trips
Extended, private, and orca-focused options
Photography Support
Photographer & drone option
Guidance and aerial capability available
Choose extended, private, or orca-focused trips with experienced captains, photography support, and optional licensed drone pilots—book a trip that matches duration and focus.
Wear Layers
Coastal weather can change rapidly, so bring layers to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Bring Binoculars
Enhance your viewing experience with binoculars for spotting distant whales and birds.
Protect Your Electronics
Waterproof cases or dry bags are recommended to keep cameras and phones safe on the boat.
Motion Sickness Remedies
If you're prone to seasickness, consider taking medication before departure to avoid discomfort.
Windbreaker or waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and sea spray during the trip.
all
Sunscreen
Helps prevent sunburn during quieter, sunny days on the water.
spring
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water for better wildlife viewing and comfort.
summer
Camera with zoom lens
Capture detailed photos of distant whales and seabirds.