Wildlife Photography Tour in Monterey Bay
Join us for a fantastic day on Monterey Bay
Spend time photographing animals like seals, sea lions, otters, whales, dolphins, turtles, sharks and the coastal scenery of Monterey Bay!
Quick Details
Intimate Photography Wildlife Encounters
- Groups are small (two to six people), we travel quietly, and the focus is on the wildlife. There is plenty of free time for us to explore.
- Our boat named “Safari” is the perfect vessel for photography as we are close and low to the water giving you a spectacular low vantage point to photograph the wildlife from an intimate level that few other vessels offer.
- You don’t have to be a photographer to fully enjoy whale or shark watching with OceanSafaris.com, but if you are, let’s face it—being there is only half the fun.
What to Expect
- Whether you are a beginner or expert photographer, you are bound to pick up some new skills and tips on capturing stunning marine life imagery. For those who are not into photography, this is still an excellent trip to be out on the water during a beautiful time of day. You can sit back, relax, and watch the wildlife, while the photographers let their shutters fly! The photography tours operating between April – May can be a good time to look for killer whales as they come into the bay to hunt migrating gray whales. We may have an opportunity to see humpback whales and multiple species of dolphins. Other times of the year, expect to see humpbacks, blues, and dolphins with the occasional killer whale sighting. There will also be opportunities to photograph other animals like sea otters, sea lions, and many bird species.
- Many adventure companies can arrange a wildlife tour, but at Ocean Safaris, we aim for you to return home with not only unforgettable memories but also incredible images. Our trips are designed to be thrilling and enjoyable, but if you’re looking for hands-on camera coaching or want to ensure you’re in the right place at the right time for extraordinary, close-up encounters with iconic marine animals, we’ve got you covered. And trust us, you’ll have an amazing time along the way!
What We Do
- We draw on our experience and expertise to teach, educate, and provide amazing experiences. Whether it is photographing sharks, whales, and other wildlife, or just spending a day on the boat, we are here to make your trip the best it can be.
- With only 6 passengers max, each guest has a comfortable seat with a front row view of the adventure.
- Each guest is provided with a very comfortable Mustang inflatable life jacket to wear during the trip.
- All of our trips are guided marine wildlife expeditions led by an experienced captain/naturalist.
- Our Wildlife Photography Tours are true coastal adventures where you can have exclusive educational exciting wildlife experiences that are family-friendly.
Remember Before You Go
- Because our boats travel at 20 plus miles per hour, there is a wind factor that can bring a chill. We have always said, “dress like you are going to the snow in layers.” Monterey weather can feel much cooler when on the water. We have spray-proof jackets for you to wear over your clothes if needed. Once on site, typically it is warmer and we are adjusting our clothing layers as needed
- Please visit the bathroom before you get onto the boat. There are no bathrooms onboard, and the trip lasts three hours. Also, please remember to pay for parking.
Meeting Location
- Departing from Santa Cruz North Harbor “J Dock” –More info and driving directions here
Please Note
- All Guests must be in reasonably good health and able to step down into and step up out of the vessel to and from the dock
- Our boat is equipped with comfortable seats with soft cushions and backrests but even so, if you are pregnant, have a weak back or neck, or if you don’t like going fast over the water, you should not go. If you have concerns please consider booking with one of the the large capacity vessels in Monterey Bay
- Contact us for additional details.
