
Small-Group Monterey Bay Whale Watching
Explore Monterey Bay from Santa Cruz with a maximum of just 6 guests.
Captain & Naturalist-led whale watching and wildlife adventures.
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.


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

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.

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.
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
“James is an awesome guide who always makes sure you have the best adventure ever!”
“Personalized service, fun and educational and overall life changing experience. The operators at ocean safaris can’t be beat. True passion for what they do that comes through!”
“What an amazing experience. Forgot the main tourist tours – this trip with James really gets you up close and personal with the animals. An experience I will never forgot.”
“The Ocean Safaris experience is one you’ll remember for the rest of your life. Truly life changing.”
“It was a wonderful afternoon on the ocean. Being up close with Humpback whales is an unforgettable experience. James was a great guide and made the trip educational, fun and easy. Highly recommend it!”
“Can’t recommend this experience with James enough. You get to get up close with the animals because of the smaller boat. I got to see over 15 humpback whales. Would recommend it 100 times over!”




