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Bring the kids aboard for enchanting ocean stories with Nona the Naturalist in Dana Point. Enjoy crafts, captivating tales, and unforgettable coastal views on this family-friendly boat tour!
Bring the kids aboard for enchanting ocean stories with Nona the Naturalist in Dana Point. Enjoy crafts, captivating tales, and unforgettable coastal views on this family-friendly boat tour!
Book with Dana Wharf Whale Watching & Sportfishing
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Dana Wharf Whale Watching & Sportfishing · Dana Point, California
Experience a one-of-a-kind maritime adventure with "Story Time with Nona the Naturalist," a private boat tour departing from Dana Point, California. Perfect for families with children, this intimate excursion aboard a Dana Wharf Whale Watching vessel seats just 15 kids and their parents. Nona, a passionate naturalist, enchants young listeners with engaging story readings inspired by the ocean and marine life. Beyond the stories, participants enjoy an interactive make-and-take craft, giving kids a hands-on takeaway that celebrates the day's adventure. The boat's gentle motion and scenic coastal views set a calming backdrop, making it an ideal outing for young families. What sets this trip apart is Nona's live-streaming of select moments on Facebook, allowing friends and family to join the fun virtually. Arrive early to secure your spot and prepare for an immersive experience that ignites curiosity about ocean conservation and local marine wonders. Whether you're a local or visiting Southern California, this unique excursion combines education, creativity, and the magic of the sea into lasting family memories.
easy.
1.5–2 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels including young children and parents carrying crafts or snacks.
Yes, the experience is designed specifically for children and their parents, making it family-friendly and engaging.
The tour limits groups to 15 children and their parents to maintain an intimate setting, so small private group bookings are accommodated.
Dana Wharf will notify guests ahead of time if a trip is canceled due to unsafe weather, and full refunds or rescheduling options are offered.
This experience does not include onboard snacks, so guests are welcome to bring their own light refreshments.
While the vessel is family-friendly, it’s best to contact Dana Wharf directly for specific accessibility needs.
Story readings and crafts take place throughout the 1.5 to 2-hour voyage, keeping kids entertained the entire time.
Dana Point served as a major harbor and whaling site in the early 1900s, shaping the area's maritime traditions.
Local operators actively participate in marine conservation efforts by promoting responsible wildlife viewing and supporting ocean research programs.
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.
Book with Dana Wharf Whale Watching & Sportfishing