Adventure Collective
Winter Wildlife Excursion in Virginia Beach: Seals, Whales, and Seabirds Adventure - Virginia Beach

Winter Wildlife Excursion in Virginia Beach: Seals, Whales, and Seabirds Adventure

Virginia Beacheasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required as the vessel provides seated comfort throughout the trip.

Overview

Explore the winter-rich waters of Virginia Beach on a 4-hour wildlife tour featuring seals, whales, dolphins, and seabirds. Perfect for nature lovers seeking close encounters with marine mammals in a comfortable, accessible setting.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Winter Wildlife Excursion

SEALS, WHALES, DOLPHINS, & SEABIRDS | Ages 12+

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Adventure Photos

Winter Wildlife Excursion photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable 4-hour coastal adventure, searching for marine mammals and seabirds in the Mid-Atlantic's rich habitat. With expert guidance, enjoy guaranteed sightings of seals, whales, and dolphins. Relax on an ADA-compliant vessel featuring panoramic views, a heated cabin, and delicious snacks, ensuring a memorable wildlife experience.

Rates

• Adults (12 and Up!) - $60 • Senior (65+) / Military - $58 • Kids (Ages 4 to 11) - $55


Duration

4 Hours


• Join us for a unique exploration of the coast in search of a variety of marine mammals and seabirds! This is a trip you will not want to miss, as the Mid-Atlantic provides a critical habitat for many different species of animals. We will explore hot spots known for their exceptional sightings of birds and seals while experts on board provide information about the animals and current local research that is being conducted to better help protect them.
•Our trip course will be determined by the concentration of recent sightings of our targeted species that include: harbor and gray seals, sea ducks (scoters, scaups, & mergansers), seabirds (razorbills, jaegers, & gannets), humpback whales, and bottlenose dolphins.
• Our vessels are ADA compliant, equipped with two bathrooms, an extensive snack bar, a heated indoor cabin with comfortable seating, and have spacious upper decks that offer panoramic views which are prime for viewing wildlife. •Marine mammal sightings are guaranteed. If we are unable to locate any marine mammals, you may ride again for FREE! No refunds will be offered.


What to Expect

• Dress for the weather! It will be slightly cooler out on the water. Layers and close-toed shoes with traction are recommended. Trips may be cancelled due to high winds creating unfavorable boating conditions, but will be conducted when it is raining. • Binoculars and telephoto lenses are encouraged.
• Departure is from Rudee Inlet at the Virginia Beach Fishing Center. Parking is free while you are on the trip! • Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to trip departure. Please allow time to check-in at our office before the trip. •The vessel will have a variety of food and beverages available for purchase. As this is an extended trip, you may bring food and non-alcoholic drinks on board.

Adventure Tips

Dress in Layers for Cold Coastal Air

Bring multiple layers to stay warm; temperatures can feel colder on the water during winter months.

Bring Binoculars or Telephoto Lens

Enhance your wildlife viewing and photography with binoculars or a telephoto lens for distant marine animals.

Arrive Early for Check-In

Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure at Rudee Inlet to ensure a smooth boarding experience.

Consider Motion Sickness Preventatives

If new to ocean boating or prone to seasickness, take medication 30–60 minutes before departure to ensure comfort.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Humpback whales breaching offshore
  • Razorbills and gannets soaring along the coastline

History

Virginia Beach’s coastline has long provided critical habitat for marine mammals and seabirds, supporting local fishing and conservation efforts for decades.

Conservation

The tour supports local marine research initiatives and promotes responsible wildlife viewing to minimize disturbance.

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Adventure Hotspots in Virginia Beach

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm Layered Clothing

Essential

Helps protect against chilly sea breezes and fluctuating winter temperatures on deck.

winter specific

Binoculars

Essential

Essential for spotting seals, whales, and seabirds at a distance in the expansive ocean.

winter specific

Non-Slip Closed-Toe Shoes

Essential

Provides traction and protection on potentially wet, slippery boat surfaces.

winter specific

Camera with Telephoto Lens

Recommended for capturing detailed images of marine wildlife during the trip.

winter specific