Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, we strongly recommend booking your cruise in advance. Our cruises often sell out, especially as the departure date gets closer. Booking ahead ensures you secure your preferred date and time.

Yes. If you need to make changes to your reservation, please call our reservation line at 619-288-8554.

Please note that if you switch to a different cruise type or date, there may be a price difference. Any difference will either be charged or refunded accordingly.

You may cancel your reservation for a full refund if the cancellation is made at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled cruise date and time.

Cancellations made within 48 hours of departure are not eligible for a refund, but your reservation may be moved to a different date.

If you purchased Trip Protection, you are eligible for a full refund, even within the 48-hour window.

In the rare case that Cruise San Diego cancels a cruise due to weather or operational reasons, you will be notified in advance and provided with available options.

Our schedule is typically released 2–3 months in advance.

If you don’t see your desired date available yet, we recommend checking back soon as new dates are added regularly.

We recommend arriving at least 45 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.

Our cruises depart promptly as scheduled, and once the boat leaves the dock, we are unable to return for late arrivals. Please allow extra time for parking, check-in, and walking to the boat to ensure a smooth boarding experience.

All guests must check in at our ticket booth before heading to the boat.

Our check-in location is:
1617 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109

The ticket booth is located waterside, attached to Sportsman’s Seafood, and marked with a blue awning that reads “Sunset Cruises & Whale Watching.”

Your ticket confirmation email also includes detailed directions and helpful information for locating the check-in booth.

After checking in, our team will direct you to the boat for boarding.

There are two primary parking options available:

• Free street parking along Quivira Road
• Paid parking at the Hyatt Mission Bay

All other nearby lots are private and may enforce towing restrictions.

If you prefer to avoid parking altogether, we recommend using a rideshare service such as Uber or Lyft.

Our cruises depart promptly at the scheduled departure time and we do not hold the boat for late arrivals.

Once the dock lines are released, we are unable to return to pick up late guests. If you miss your cruise, please contact our team to discuss available options.

We strongly recommend arriving at least 45 minutes early to avoid any issues.

Outside alcohol is not permitted on board.

We offer a full onboard bar with beer, wine, and cocktails available for purchase.

For public cruises, you are welcome to bring light snacks on board.

Please note:

• Coolers are not permitted on public trips
• We do not have the facilities to accommodate large catering setups or food that requires service equipment
• The following items are not permitted: shelled nuts, sunflower seeds, and gum

Yes. We accept credit cards, Apple Pay, and cash on board for purchases at the bar.

Pets are not permitted on board.

Service animals are welcome in accordance with applicable regulations.

Yes. Our crew greatly appreciates gratuities for excellent service.

Gratuities can be given in cash or via Venmo.
At the bar, gratuities can also be added at checkout using credit card, Apple Pay, or cash.

Our vessel, the Ohana, is not wheelchair accessible.

For accessible options, please contact our sister company, San Diego Whale Watch.

Dress is casual.

We recommend wearing flat shoes and bringing layers, as it can be cooler out on the water—especially during sunset and evening cruises.

If you purchased your tickets through a third-party vendor (such as Groupon), please bring your voucher with you, either printed or on your smartphone.

For all guests, we recommend bringing a valid form of payment for onboard purchases and dressing appropriately for the weather.

Yes. All ages are welcome on our cruises.

Cruise durations vary depending on the experience:

• Sunset Cruise: approximately 75 minutes
• Whale & Dolphin Cruises: up to 2.5 hours

Special event cruises: duration may vary

Our boat, the Ohana, is located on the waterfront at:

1617 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109

After checking in at our ticket booth, our team will direct you to the dock for boarding.

After checking in at our ticket booth, our team will direct you to the dock where the Ohana is boarding.

The walk to the boat is a short, easy walk along the waterfront.

Yes. While cruising in Mission Bay, you may see sea lions, seabirds, and occasionally dolphins.

On our Whale & Dolphin Cruises, sightings vary by season and may include species such as migrating whales and dolphins.

You can expect a relaxing and enjoyable experience on the calm waters of Mission Bay.

Our cruises feature scenic views, a comfortable atmosphere, and a full onboard bar offering beer, wine, and cocktails. Whether you’re joining us for a sunset cruise or a special event, the experience is designed to be fun, social, and memorable.

Yes. We offer private charters for a wide range of events including birthdays, corporate gatherings, weddings, and more.

Our team will work with you to customize the experience to fit your event, including bar options, food arrangements, and entertainment.

To get started, please call 619-693-4391 or email derwayne@cruise-sd.com.

Capacity depends on the vessel and event type.

Our vessels range from 100 to 149 guests maximum, depending on the specific boat and event setup. Our team will help determine the best option based on your group size and event needs.

Yes. For private charters, you have flexible food options.

You may:

• Bring your own food
• Hire a licensed caterer
• Work with one of our preferred catering partners

Please note that no cooking is permitted on board, and all food must be pre-prepared. Our team can help guide you on the best setup based on your event.

Yes. All private charters include access to our onboard bar.

You may choose between a cash bar or a hosted bar package, depending on your preference. We offer a variety of options including beer, wine, and cocktails, and our team can help you select the best package for your event.

Yes — for private charters, you are welcome to bring decorations and customize the theme for your event.

We recommend keeping décor simple and easy to set up. Our team can provide guidance on what works best onboard and help ensure everything is safe and appropriate for the vessel.