Whale Watching: Half Moon Bay
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GRAY WHALE WATCHING: Half Moon Bay
From December through May, gray whales can be observed a few miles off California’s shore, and whale watchers aboard Oceanic Society’s naturalist-led Whale Watch boats have a unique vantage from which to view this incredible "parade." During each cruise our expert naturalists give talks on gray whales and the conservation efforts which brought them back from near extinction. These exciting and educational cruises are held on board motorized diesel vessels, from San Francisco (6-1/2 hours), Half Moon Bay (3 hours) and Bodega Bay (3 hours) every Saturday, Sunday and select Fridays from December through mid-May.
TRIP INFORMATION Departure: Pillar Point Yacht Harbor (approx. 1 hour south of San Francisco). Trip duration: 3 hours. Half Moon Bay departures are from 9 am-12 pm & 1 pm-4 pm. Itinerary: Flexible; generally, off-shore 1-12 miles into the gray whale migration path. Vessel: Cruises are aboard the Salty Lady, a 56' Coast Guard certificated, fully insured motor vessel with an open observation deck and indoor salon; seating is limited. The captain is experienced in natural history cruises. Passenger capacity: 48. Parking: Free off-street parking at the harbor. Food & Refreshments: Bring snack and beverage. Age Restrictions: Youths under 15 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. Children under age 7 will not be permitted on the boat.
TRIPS GO RAIN OR SHINE! |
2008-2009 WHALE WATCHING SCHEDULE DECEMBER 2008
Saturday, December 27 -register
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The annual gray whale migration, one of the world's most magnificent and accessible wildlife spectacles, is underway. Each year approximately 15,000 of an estimated total population of 17,500 gray whales swim south from Arctic feeding grounds, en route to their Baja California breeding and calving grounds.