Why Ocean Safaris?

Ocean Safaris specializes in small-group marine wildlife adventures designed to put you closer to extraordinary wildlife without the crowds. From whale watching and wildlife photography in Monterey Bay to gray whales in Baja, sharks, whale sharks, mobula rays and international expeditions, our trips are built around intimate encounters, experienced leadership and unforgettable days on the ocean.

Whale watching
Whale watching

Our Monterey Bay trips depart from Santa Cruz and carry a maximum of just six guests, giving everyone a comfortable seat and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography. Ocean Safaris expeditions are led by experienced captains, naturalists and guides who understand the wildlife, the ocean and how to create exceptional small-group experiences.

Whether you’re photographing humpback whales, searching for killer whales or swimming alongside whale sharks, our goal is simple: create wildlife experiences you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Embark on Your Next Ocean Adventure

Whale watching Monterey Bay

Small-Group Monterey Bay Whale Watching

Explore Monterey Bay from Santa Cruz on an intimate 3-hour wildlife adventure with a maximum of just six guests. Search for humpback whales, killer whales, dolphins, sea otters and other marine wildlife.

Shark watching Monterey Bay

Great White Sharks – Topside in Monterey Bay

This tour is focused on seeing great white sharks on the surface, but we may see other wildlife such as dolphins, porpoises, whales, and more.

Shark watching Año Nuevo

Great White Sharks Año Nuevo Island

We have a NOAA Marine Sanctuary Permit to use a decoy to attract great white sharks at Año Nuevo and South East Farallon Islands. This proven method typically draws sharks between 12 and 19 feet—sometimes even larger.

Whale watching

Swim with
Mobula and Orcas

We will have many days on this expedition to get you in the water with mobula rays and the best chance of orcas. We will be using a high speed 32 ft boat to get you in the water as often as possible.

Whale watching photography tour

Monterey Bay Wildlife Photography Tour

A small-group wildlife photography adventure designed for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Maximum six guests with excellent opportunities to photograph whales, dolphins, sea otters and other Monterey Bay wildlife.

Fiji trip

Fiji’s Beqa Lagoon
Shark Dive

Fiji’s Beqa Lagoon Resorts Shark Dive Experience is one you will always remember. ​A short boat ride from the resort brings you to a wonderland of marine life. Up to seven species of sharks can be seen on the shark dive.

Want to see more?

Meet Your Captain & Naturalist — James Moskito

California native James Moskito has spent his life exploring the ocean and sharing extraordinary wildlife encounters with others. As an experienced captain, naturalist and expedition leader, James has led hundreds of adventures in California and destinations around the world.

From humpback whales and killer whales in Monterey Bay to gray whales in Baja and sharks throughout the Pacific, James brings decades of experience and a passion for creating intimate, small-group wildlife encounters. His goal is simple: give every guest a safe, personal and unforgettable experience with the ocean and its wildlife.

Epic Experiences with Ocean Safaris

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