Some of the world’s most coveted up-close moments include watching migrating whales from the deck of a boat as they make their way through the sea. The San Diego coastline is an exceptional location to enjoy this singular experience.

Here’s how to plan your own:

The San Diego Whale & Dolphin Watching Adventure by City Cruises offers a four-hour yacht cruise on San Diego Bay, where the city skyline provides a backdrop to wildlife viewing of whales, dolphins, sea lions and a variety of marine birds. Cruises are accompanied by volunteer naturalists and professional captains who help guests learn about these amazing creatures while observing them.

Sightings are guaranteed or your next trip is free with Flagship’s San Diego Whale Watching Tours. Chances are good you’ll see one of the more than 20,000 gray whales traveling a migration route along this coastline. Other sightings may include minke whales, sea lions, dolphins, fin whales or other water world residents. Tours include expert commentary with fascinating details about these massive marine creatures, along with information about the greater ocean ecosystem.

San Diego Whale Watching Tours makes the most of grey whale season with a three-hour educational cruise; a 2.5-hour sunset sightseeing cruise; a two- to 2.5-hour adventure cruise for a maximum of six persons in small craft for proximity to whales and wildlife; and 2.5- to three-hour private tours for up to six people. Each tour includes an onboard naturalist or marine biologist to answer questions and enhance the guest experience.

Tour options with Oceanside Adventures include two-hour Whale and Dolphin Watching Luxury Cruises aboard a 50-foot, 45-passenger catamaran; and private charters accommodating families, couples, private events or corporate outings. Cruises may also include sightings of sharks, sunfish, orcas, pilot whales and turtles.