Sanctuary Cruises, Moss Landing

About Sanctuary Cruises

Sanctuary Cruises operates whale watching tours departing from Moss Landing on Monterey Bay. Visitors board one of three vessels—Sanctuary, Ocean Spirit, or Meridian—captained by mariners with over 30 years of experience on these waters. Each cruise carries a working marine biologist who guides passengers through wildlife encounters and explains the animals and environment. Trips feature sea-level viewing decks that position visitors eye-level with humpback whales, dolphins, orcas, and other marine life rather than viewing from elevated decks. The fleet includes the stable, spacious Sanctuary, the fast Ocean Spirit RHIB accommodating up to six passengers, and the private luxury Meridian. Cruises typically run three to four hours and regularly encounter humpback whales, California sea lions, common dolphins, and seabirds including pelicans and albatrosses. Children five and older are welcome, as are healthy pregnant visitors through their second trimester and passengers with physical limitations. The company maintains small group sizes to prevent crowding and maximize viewing opportunities.