Illustration of a generic other scene (New Year’s Eve Dolphin & Whale Sunset Safari)
Other Christmas Activities

New Year’s Eve Dolphin & Whale Sunset Safari

Guests sail aboard the Manute'a, a 50-foot catamaran featuring eye-to-eye underwater viewing pods, to watch for marine life such as migrating gray whales, humpback whales, and wild dolphins. During sunset, passengers are treated to a complimentary glass of Champagne or sparkling cider for a celebratory toast. At the end of the cruise, guests receive one of Mrs. Capt. Dave's Triple Fudge Brownies.

What to Expect

Catamaran cruise with underwater viewing pods, champagne toast, and fudge brownies.

Event Details

Duration

2½ hours.

Food & Drink

Guests receive one serving of Champagne or sparkling cider for the sunset toast and one Triple Fudge Brownie at the end of the cruise.

Get Tickets

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Families and couples seeking a scenic new year’s eve outing

Vibe

Serene and celebratory

Energy Level

Low

Budget

$$$

Photo Friendly

High

Weather Sensitivity

High

Location

Capt. Dave's Dolphin & Whale Watching Safari
24440 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, California, 92629
Dana Point, CA

Know Before You Go

  • Tickets: Adults age 13+: $86.92 (shown with $100 struck through); children up to age 12: $60.84 (shown with $70 struck through). Includes one serving of Champagne or sparkling cider to toast; a Triple Fudge Brownie is also described as part of the cruise. – Get tickets

Tips & Advice

  • Book in advance for the New Year’s Eve departure, and use the online calendar to confirm availability for this special sailing.
  • Bring a warm layer for the 2½-hour cruise; the event page notes a cool ocean breeze during the sunset outing.
  • Keep watch throughout the cruise, as sightings may include several whale and dolphin species as well as other marine life.
  • Try the two eye-to-eye underwater viewing pods for a close look at marine life beneath the surface.
  • Remember that the cruise welcomes guests age 1 and up when deciding whether the outing suits everyone in your group.

Special Events & Promotions

  • New Year's Eve sunset safari cruise.

Quick Actions

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can join the cruise?

The safari is for ages one and up; adult tickets are for ages 13 and older, and child tickets are for children up to age 12.

What marine life might passengers see?

Possible sightings include gray, fin and humpback whales; several dolphin species; sea lions; elephant seals; sharks; and possibly orcas.

What can passengers see from the boat?

The Manute'a is a 50-foot catamaran with two eye-to-eye underwater viewing pods.

What food and drinks are included?

Guests receive one serving of Champagne or sparkling cider for a toast and a Triple Fudge Brownie at the end of the cruise.

How long should I allow for the safari?

The cruise lasts two and a half hours.

More Christmas Events near Dana Point

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Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

Contributors & Updates

Last Updated: Oct 20, 2026
Original Submitter: Sep 17, 2025 The Christmas Events Near Me editorial team