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Worldwide listing of responsible whale watching bases

Dolphin and whale watching at Dana Point (California)

TWO EXPERIENCES AVAILABLE: CATAMARAN OR ZODIAC OUTING

Photograph by Pierre Lavagne de Castellan, head of the Shelltone Whale Project
Photograph by Pierre Lavagne de Castellan, head of the Shelltone Whale Project

A word from Pierre

Dana Point is considered the world's cetacean-watching capital

We have selected this expedition base because the captains are committed to offering only sustainable observation of the flora and fauna. They are convinced that they must be good representatives of the ocean. This means using the best sustainable technology available to approach cetaceans with the respect we owe them.

The Shelltone Whale Project's cetacean-watching charter is fully respected.

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Dolphin and whale watching safari on a catamaran

aboard the Manute'a (catamaran with underwater windows)

The Manute'a (pronounced mah-noo-tay-ah) is a high-tech sailing catamaran and high speedA unique dolphin and whale watching experience in Orange County.
It has underwater vision capsules so you can see the animals underwater without getting wet. The Manute'a also offers three observation nets at the front for an immersive adventure at Dana Point, a micro-museum of dolphins and whales, and live narrations by expert marine naturalists, making the excursion both fun and educational.

Description of the activity 

Length of outing: 2h30
Age: no minimum age
Capacity: up to 49 people
Species to see: whales, dolphins, sea lions, sharks, birds and much more!

Additional information: 

  • Our safaris are safe and never crowded.
  • Access to the underwater vision booths is via ladder-like steps, which can pose difficulties for people with disabilities or reduced mobility.

Photo gallery

"Dana Point whale watching tours allow you to experience a wide variety of whales year-round, more dolphins per square mile than anywhere else in the world, pristine coastline, calm seas, the first and oldest annual whale festival, and a captivating harbor just minutes from the ocean."

- Pierre Lavagne de Castellan -

Dolphin and whale watching safari in a Zodiac

Experience unforgettable moments aboard a zodiac

A thrilling adventure for adrenaline-seeking groups! Thanks to the speed of the zodiac, you can get as close as possible to the most spectacular marine mammals, while respecting their limits.

The advantage of this outing? You're in a small group on my boat! So you can be sure of an intimate experience. Your captain is an experienced marine naturalist who will show you the incredible life of dolphins, whales, sea lions and much more. Don't hesitate to ask the captain any questions!

Description of the activity 

Length of outing: 2 hours
Age: 6 years and over
Capacity: up to 20 people
Species to see: whales, dolphins, sea lions, sharks, birds and much more!

Additional information: 

  • Our safaris are safe and never crowded.
  • Our Zodiac safari is a fast-paced and dynamic experience. Participants must be in good health and have no head, neck or back injuries.
  • A very adventurous sea trip, with a very fast boat! 

Photo gallery

"They don't just watch the whales... they save them too! The captain founded and organised Orange County's first whale rescue group. He and the other members of the rescue team have received worldwide recognition for their whale rescue and conservation efforts."

- Pierre Lavagne de Castellan -

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Click on the "BOOK" button to reserve.

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Whale songs - 43 min.

Recorded 10 miles off Baille Argent on 26 April 2016. We are convinced that there is a message in this song. Good listening!

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