In short
- Monterey offers a historic pier and large tour operators.
- Moss Landing sits directly over the canyon for faster deep-water access.
- Both locations offer over a 90% chance of whale sightings.
In this article
Monterey Bay has two main hubs for whale watching tours. You can leave from Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey or from Moss Landing Harbor. Your choice depends on whether you prefer the classic tourist pier or the quickest route to the deep ocean.
What is the main difference between Monterey and Moss Landing?
Monterey requires more boat travel time to reach deep water, while Moss Landing sits right over the submarine canyon.
The Monterey Submarine Canyon drops to depths of over 12,743 feet. This trench funnels nutrients to the surface, attracting whales. Moss Landing Harbor is located midway around the bay, directly above this canyon. Boats leaving from Moss Landing reach deep waters faster. Boats from Monterey travel further across the bay to reach the same feeding grounds.
Why depart from Old Fisherman's Wharf in Monterey?
Monterey serves as the primary hub for major tour operators.
Old Fisherman's Wharf offers a full day of activities. You can walk the Monterey Bay Coastal Recreation Trail before your tour. The area has multiple large tour operators and easy access to the nearby Monterey Marina. You should allow 30 minutes to walk down the pier to your check-in point.
Why choose Moss Landing Harbor?
Moss Landing cuts down on boat transit time to the deep canyon.
Choose this harbor if you want to spend less time riding and more time watching. The harbor sits directly at the head of the canyon. This means your boat reaches whale feeding grounds quickly. It is also home to Elkhorn Slough, a major wildlife area.
Do you see different whales from each location?
No, boats from both harbors visit the same sanctuary waters.
Tour operators from both locations target the same animals. You have a chance to see gray whales from December through April. Humpback whales feed in the bay from March through November. Blue whales appear from July to October. Federal law requires all vessels to stay at least 300 feet (100 yards) away from whales.
Which location is better for spotting sea otters?
Moss Landing Harbor is famous for its resident sea otters.
You can see sea otters at both locations. However, Moss Landing is highly reliable for close dockside viewing. Resident sea otters float in the calm waters around the harbor docks. You can watch them right from the shore before boarding your boat.
How does parking compare between the two?
Monterey has a large, paid central lot, while Moss Landing has smaller, localized harbor parking.
In Monterey, you will drive to the Waterfront Lot at 245 Washington St. Parking costs $2 per hour with a $14 daily maximum. You can use the ParkMobile app to extend your time while out on the water. Moss Landing parking varies by the specific tour operator's slip location.
Questions travellers ask
Is whale watching better in Monterey or Moss Landing?
Both offer over a 90% chance of sightings year-round. Moss Landing provides faster access to deep water. Monterey offers more tour operators and pier activities.
Do tours from both locations cost the same?
Prices vary by operator, but standard half-day tours from either harbor typically range from $60 to $80 for adults. Prices can change.
Where is Moss Landing located?
Moss Landing Harbor is located directly midway around Monterey Bay. It sits at the head of the Monterey Submarine Canyon.
