Frequently Asked Questions

Answered for questions happened frequently — We are happy to answer you

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Booking & Cancellations

Do you accept credit cards on board?

Yes, credit cards and cash are both accepted on the boat. 

Arrival & Transportation

What time should I arrive to the boat?

Guests are suggested to check in 30 minutes prior to departure to ensure a spot on the boat before the trip is scheduled to begin. Please note that our departure times are very prompt and leave as scheduled. Once the dock-lines are untied, we cannot turn the boat around even if we wanted to. This means that being just a few minutes late may cause you to miss your cruise. We would never want to see an eager passenger miss their chance to join us so please give yourself plenty of time to arrive, find parking and settle in! 

What are the available options for parking?

There are two parking options for Cruise San Diego:

Free street parking on Quivira Road.
Paid parking at the Hyatt Mission Bay.

All other parking lots in the area are private and are equipped with towing signs/restrictions.
We also recommend using an app-based car service such as Uber or Lyft if you would like to skip the concern of parking all together. Fortunately, we have yet to hear about any difficulties with street parking from our passengers!

When does your schedule come out?

Our schedule is typically available one month in advance. If you are interested in booking a spot prior to the release of the associated schedule, please check back at a later time. 

Cruise Details

Do you ever cancel cruises?

We only cancel cruises for a lack of reservations or in the case of severely bad weather. If a cruise is canceled, you will be notified prior to your departure time by phone and/or email.

Boat Information

Directions to the boat?

Our check-in office (ticket booth) address is 1617 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109. We are facing the marina waterside, attached to the Sportsman’s Seafood Fish & Chips Shop. Check-in office is the gray ticket booth with a blue awning that says “Sunset Cruises & Whale Watching”  on the waterside of Sportsman’s Seafood, between Sportsmans Seafood and H2O rentals. You must check in, prior to heading down to the boat. 

The Ohana is docked on Hyatt Mission Bay property. Look for the Market Mission Bay Coffee Shop. Our boat, the “Ohana” will be tied up to the dock that is attached to this location (when she is not underway). 

From the Red Marlin Restaurant:
Walk east along the boardwalk in front of the restaurant keeping the marina (waterside) on your right and the hotel pool on your left. The 2nd brown building on your right is the Market Mission Bay Coffee Shop. Our boat the “Ohana” departs from this dock.

From the Fish & Chips Shop (Sportsman’s Seafood):
Walk along the boardwalk in front of the restaurant keeping the marina (waterside) on your left. The 1st brown building on your left is the Market Mission Bay Coffee Shop. Our boat the “Ohana” will depart from this dock. 

Can I bring my pet on board?

We do not have the facilities for your pet to join us; however, all service animals are welcome aboard. They must have their ADA paperwork and/or tag visible.

Do you allow alcohol?

Outside alcohol is not permitted on board; however, our galley has a full bar with beer, wine and cocktails available for purchase! 

Does your crew accept gratuities?

Absolutely! Your crew greatly appreciates the extra love. 

What should I wear?

Dress Code: Casual

Weather: Please plan accordingly. San Diego can cool off! Please bring layers with you, especially on the Sunset and Evening Cruises. It tends to be a bit cooler out on the Bay, especially after the sun goes down. We have indoor seating to accommodate our passengers throughout cooler nights; however, we suggest bringing a jacket as an extra layer in case you need it.

Should I book my trip in advance?

We strongly recommend booking your trip in advance as they do tend to fill up fairly quickly, especially as the departure date approaches. 

Are there any age restrictions for your trips?

Sunset Bay Cruises - All ages are welcome

Dolphin & Whale Watching Sunset Cruises - All ages are welcome

Is there food on board/Can I bring food on board?

We have light snacks available for purchase and outside food is welcome with the exception of shelled nuts, sunflower seeds and gum, all of which are NOT permitted; however, we do not have the proper facilities to accommodate large quantities of food that require the type of service a catering company would supply. We also recommend reserving a table at the Red Marlin restaurant, just down the walkway from our vessel. They are a great option for appetizers, dinner or drinks either before or after your cruise. You may reach the Red Marlin at (619) 221-4868.

Do I need to bring anything?

If you purchased your tickets through a third-party vendor such as Groupon, please be sure to bring your voucher with you. We accept vouchers whether they are printed or on your smart phone.

Can I adjust my reservation?

Yes! If you need to make any adjustments to your current reservation, please call our reservation line at 619.288.8554.

  • Please note that there may be a price difference between different types of cruises. The difference will be refunded or owed, depending on the particular adjustment.
Am I able to rent out the entire boat for a private event or party?

Yes! Whether your event is for a birthday, graduation, business gathering, burial at sea or any other type of event, we make sure it is nothing short of special. Please call our reservation line at 619.288.8554 or you may email us at [email protected] for more information.

Do you see any wildlife on your cruises?

Yes. Sea Lions, seabirds and possibly even Inshore Bottlenose Dolphins may be spotted right inside Mission Bay. As for our wildlife focused Whale & Dolphin Sunset Cruises, we are able to see a variety of wildlife throughout the year including the migratory Gray Whale in the winter time! 

How do I redeem my voucher? (Groupon, Living Social, etc.)

If you purchased your tickets from a third-party vendor, you will need to make your reservations using the voucher code(s) given to you. Please consult the directions on your voucher email for completing your purchase, as this email will provide step-by-step instructions for booking your reservation. 

Is it ok if I am running late?

Our cruises leave promptly at the scheduled departure time and we cannot simply turn the boat around to go back to the dock if you are late. We do not hold the boat. Please be considerate of other guests and be on time.

Is your boat handicap accessible?

The Ohana is not handicap accessible; however, our sister company San Diego Whale Watch does accommodate. If you would like more information, please call San Diego Whale Watch at 619-534-9249.

Are you cruises appropriate for children?
Yes.
Do you provide transportation to and from hotels?

We do not have the proper accomodations for transporting guests to and from the marina. Instead, we recommend an app-based transportation company such as Lyft or Uber. This type of transportation is an easy and affordable way to get around the San Diego area (free to sign up). 

Where is your boat located?

Our boat is located behind the Hyatt Hotel Mission Bay, on the waterfront. In-between the Hyatt itself and the walkway along the waterfront, you'll find the Mission Market, which sells coffee and gifts. Our boat is named the Ohana and is located directly behind the Market on the dock. If you are still having trouble finding the boat, please speak with the Concierge at the Hyatt and they can help direct you.

How long are the cruises?

Sunset Cruise – 75 minutes
Dolphin & Whale Watch Sunset Cruise – up to 2.5 hours
Souleil on the Bay - 3 hours
Various types of seasonal/special event cruises will vary in length.