The Coronado Island Nature Cruise is a 5 1/2- to 6-hour excursion into the international waters off the coast of San Diego. In addition to observing many species of wildlife native to the Pacific Ocean, you will learn about the history and ecology of San Diego Bay from tour guides on the ship.
As of 2010, the cost per person is less than $50. This includes the cruise and all taxes and fees. Food is not included, but is available for purchase on the ship.
Over 80 varieties of sea life can be seen, including whales, dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles and sea birds, including the once-endangered brown pelican. The guided tour also includes one of only two elephant seal rookeries within 300 miles and the largest seahorses in the world (12 inches).
Cruises run from late December through March, coinciding with the 10,000-mile migration of the California gray whales from their summer feeding grounds in arctic waters to their breeding grounds in Mexico. Some cruises can run as late as June, but the likelihood of observing the California gray whale is more remote.
Tickets must be purchased 12 to 24 hours before travel and passengers should arrive 30 minutes prior to departure. Seasickness medication is advised.
