Harbor Breeze Cruises

During the two and a half hour whale watching tours, the Harbor Breeze Captains provide visitors with interesting facts about whales and other marine life. A day at sea can prove a fun and educational day for a family, a group of friends or an adventurous date.

Did you know there are whale-watching seasons? If you attend a whale-watching cruise between December and May, you’ll likely see the Pacific Gray Whale off the shores of Long Beach. Between June and December, keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Blue Whale. Learn about the whales’ migration patterns and how they find their way from Alaska all the way to Mexico, and back! Most groups do see whales while on board, but keep your eyes open for other sea life -- harbor seals, dolphins and sea lions.

Bring along the kids for a day of fun at sea. If you need a snack, the boats are equipped with snack bars providing beverages -- hot and cold -- and small bites to passengers. On the Harbor Breeze website, visitors will find up-to-date information on whale sightings for each day, as well as a “seasonal sightings count” for humpback whales, killer whales, Pacific gray whales, blue whales and fin whales.

Other boats in the Harbor Breeze fleet can hold up to 150 passengers and are available for weddings at sea, private parties and events. Groups of 25 of more passengers may be eligible for discounted whale-watching rates; contact Harbor Breeze for more information.

Reservations are not necessary. Just show up 30 minutes before the schedule departures. If you have a large group, however, you should make a reservation to ensure that there’s enough room aboard for your entire party.

Danny Salas opened Harbor Breeze Cruises in 1990, and since then he’s been pleasing passengers with his friendly demeanor, knowledgeable crew and informative whale-watching excursions. Click here to purchase tickets.

HelloMetro Tip: Although the cruises depart from sunny southern California, it can get quite chilly out on the water. Dress comfortably and warmly. Bring a jacket to block wind, and maybe even a hat, scarf and gloves during winter months. The ocean breeze isn’t always warm!

- by Jessica Bates, Long Beach Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

Jessica Bates

Jessica is a freelance journalist residing in lovely southern California. She holds a bachelor's degree in English and journalism. She writes for a green living publication, which she thoroughly enjoys. Once upon a time she was an editorial board member for Steel Toe Books choosing poetry manuscripts for publication.