Dana Point is the world headquarters for whale and dolphin watching. The city celebrates gray whales and other marine wildlife during the annual Festival of Whales in March. The Ocean Institute offers an incredible opportunity to join a chartered cruises. Set sail aboard the schooner Spirit of Dana Point and experience California from the perspective of an early tallship explorer. You’ll depart from the famous once Killer Dana harbor to open seas with their captain. The crew will guide you to see the incredible journey of whales who are traveling to Baja, Mexico during the winter months. You may spot the mammal with its majestic movement gliding in the ocean and learn new facts about this species. Prior to the ocean tour, you can attend an information seminar that will prepare you with a variety of information on the biodiversity of this region.
Ocean Institute educators will share scientific information and showcase a microscopic look at plankton and ither microorganisms. We learned that the creator of Spongebob Squarepants was inspired to create the series after working at OI. Plankton is a copepod.
During our experience, we witnessed two kinds of dolphins who were equally playful. They seemed to surf in the boats current and were friendly.
Book your tour by visiting https://oceaninstitute.org/cruises-and-sails/. They are generally offered on Saturday and Sunday. Bioluminescence Night Cruises are only offered during the summer months, so schedule this experience in-advance.
We encourage you to become a member as you’ll receive a discounted rate. It is one of the many perks of supporting this 501c3 non-profit. They are dedicated to “Using the Ocean as our classroom, we inspire children to learn.” Visit the OI at 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point, California 92629.
