Where do I redeem my E-ticket?
Please go to the visitor center located at 234 w.42nd street between 7th & 8th avenues, inside the lobby of Madame Tussauds, the wax museum.
What does Hop on Hop off mean?
Hop on/Hop off means you can hop off the bus at any one of its stops (stop locations are listed on map), walk around as much as you like then hop back on the next bus at one of its stops. You have unlimited hop on/ hop offs during the specified hours for each tour. Buses run every 15-20 minutes.
What if it rains?
The tours operate open-decker buses on the Downtown and Night Tours so everyone can have the best views of the city. Ponchos will be provided when it is raining. During cold weather periods, the company has designed a removable canopy constructed from a clear, see-through material, allowing both warmth and complete visibility.
Will my ticket expire?
Yes, your time starts when you redeem the E-ticket. Tickets will expire if not used within the hours.
What if my child is under 3 years old?
Children under 3 years of age, accompanied by an adult and not occupying a seat, travel complimentary on the tours.
What does VIP Access include?
The VIP pass allows you to bypass the line at some of the busiest spots. The means you get to board the bus first and choose where you want to sit before anyone else. You can skip the reservation line at the Hard Rock Cafe - Midtown. Receive a 10% discount off your check at Heartland Brewery (Union Square, Radio City, Times Square, Midtown West, Empire State and HB Burger). Skip the line at Dave and Busters midtown and $5 VIP Power Card. Receive 15% off Gotham Photo at CitySightseeing Pier 78.
Where are the departure locations and how long are the tours?
~ Downtown Tour Plus Tour: *Tour Length- 2.5 Hours. *Departure Location- Citysights NY Visitor Center (lobby of Madame Tussauds) 234 W.42nd St. Times Square and 8th Avenue between 49th and 50th Streets. *Departure Time: frequent departures from 8:00 am - 6:00 pm.
~ Uptown Treasures & Harlem Tour Plus: *Tour Length- 2.5 Hours *Departure Location- Departs from 8th Ave btw. 42nd & 43rd Street *Departure Time: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm.
~ Bronx Tour Plus: *Tour Length- 1 Hour *Departure Location- 122 Street (Grant's Tomb) *Departure Time: Daily between 10 am and 4 pm.
~ Night Tour: *Tour Length- Approx 2.5 hrs. *Escorted Tour (not Hop-on Hop-off). *Departure Location- 42nd Street and 7th Avenue, and 46th Street and Broadway *Departure Time- frequent nightly departures: 42nd Street and 7th Avenue from 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm and 46th Street and Broadway from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm.
~ Brooklyn Tour Plus: * Tour Length- 1.5 hrs. *Departure Location From J&R on Park Row Downtown Tour *Departure Time- Daily Every 30 minutes from 10:30 am to 3:00 pm.
~ Hop-on, Hop-off Sightseeing Ferry: * Tour Length- Once redeemed, ticket valid for 24 hours.*Departure Location- *Dumbo- located on old Fulton Street and Furman St. *Pier 11- located on Wall St. at South Street.
~ *World Financial District- located at 199 Vessey St. Next to the Irish Memorial *Departure Time Daily: 10:00am - 3:30pm.
~ Museum of the City of New York: * Free Admission! *Location- 1220 Fifth Avenue at 103rd St. *Hours of Operation- Open daily: 10am to 6pm. *Average Visit Time- 2 hrs.
Thursday, December 18, 2014
The Great Smoky Mountain Wheel
How many people can fit inside a Gondola at one time?
Each Gondola can typically fit 6 adults or a combination of adults and children up to 8. There is a weight limit of 1,200 lbs.
Can pregnant women or infants ride?
The ride is a controlled, smooth experience that accommodates all people. While infants ride for free, you still need a ticket for the infant. It is not recommended that pregnant women ride but may choose to on their own accord.
Can I bring my pet on the ride?
Sorry, we like those family members but do not permit animals of any kind.
Can I wait to ride alone in my own Gondola?
Typically, we have many riders patiently waiting for their turn to ride. As a result, occasionally you may be required to ride with other parties to accommodate those patiently waiting to ride.
Do you permit food or drink on the ride?
In an effort to help keep all gondolas clean and safe, we do not allow eating or drinking on the ride.
Do you have wheelchair access?
Yes, we are able to access the Gondolas with a wheelchair. Disabled persons must be able to enter on their own or be with a companion for assistance.
How long is a ride?
Ride times vary but are a minimum of 3 revolutions.
Can I reserve a Gondola for a specific time?
We do not accept reservations. All rides are served on a first come first served basis.
Can I buy a souvenir from my experience on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel?
Yes! No experience is complete without a visit to our Great Smoky Mountain Wheel gift shop located across from the exit. There are a variety of souvenirs and gifts for the memories to continue.
Each Gondola can typically fit 6 adults or a combination of adults and children up to 8. There is a weight limit of 1,200 lbs.
Can pregnant women or infants ride?
The ride is a controlled, smooth experience that accommodates all people. While infants ride for free, you still need a ticket for the infant. It is not recommended that pregnant women ride but may choose to on their own accord.
Can I bring my pet on the ride?
Sorry, we like those family members but do not permit animals of any kind.
Can I wait to ride alone in my own Gondola?
Typically, we have many riders patiently waiting for their turn to ride. As a result, occasionally you may be required to ride with other parties to accommodate those patiently waiting to ride.
Do you permit food or drink on the ride?
In an effort to help keep all gondolas clean and safe, we do not allow eating or drinking on the ride.
Do you have wheelchair access?
Yes, we are able to access the Gondolas with a wheelchair. Disabled persons must be able to enter on their own or be with a companion for assistance.
How long is a ride?
Ride times vary but are a minimum of 3 revolutions.
Can I reserve a Gondola for a specific time?
We do not accept reservations. All rides are served on a first come first served basis.
Can I buy a souvenir from my experience on the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel?
Yes! No experience is complete without a visit to our Great Smoky Mountain Wheel gift shop located across from the exit. There are a variety of souvenirs and gifts for the memories to continue.
Thursday, November 6, 2014
Wet 'n Wild Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wet 'n Wild supply life jackets?
Yes, coast guard approved life jackets can be obtained from the Rentals building at no charge or are available on the wave deck next to the Surf Lagoon wave pool. All children 48’’ and under are required to wear a US Coast Guard approved flotation device while swimming in the Surf Lagoon.
Can towels, lockers and tubes be rented?
Yes. Rates are:
Yes, as always Wet ‘n Wild allows food and beverages to be brought into the park. However, alcoholic beverages, glass containers and grills are prohibited. Wet ‘n Wild reserves the right to limit size and quantity of “picnic baskets” and coolers.
Are tube rentals necessary to ride the rides?
No, you do not need to rent a tube in order to experience any of the rides. Tubes will be supplied at the rides that do require tubes.
Are children's floats (arm floats, inflatable tubes) allowed?
Yes, with parental supervision and only in the Lazy River, Kids' Park, Blastaway BeachTM and Surf Lagoon wave pool.
Are beach balls, frisbees and volleyballs allowed in the park?
Yes.
Are wheelchairs allowed in the park?
Yes.
Is there a dress code for the park?
T-shirts: T-shirts are allowed to be worn in the park and on most of the rides. T-shirts are prohibited on single passenger thrill rides such as The Bomb Bay or Der Stuka. Cover-ups/Board shorts: Cover-ups and board shorts are allowed in the park and on most of the rides. Please note that cut-offs or items with metal fasteners, rivets, zippers and buckles are prohibited. Water shoes: Water shoes are allowed to be worn in the park and on most of the rides. Water shoes are prohibited on single passenger thrill rides such as The Bomb Bay or Der Stuka.
All apparel is subject to lifeguard approval.
Yes, coast guard approved life jackets can be obtained from the Rentals building at no charge or are available on the wave deck next to the Surf Lagoon wave pool. All children 48’’ and under are required to wear a US Coast Guard approved flotation device while swimming in the Surf Lagoon.
Can towels, lockers and tubes be rented?
Yes. Rates are:
- Towel: $4.00
- Family Size Locker: $10.99
- Regular Locker: $8.99
- Mini Locker: $5.99
- Towel & Regular Locker combo: $10.99
Prices are subject to change without
notice. All prices do not include 6.5% sales tax plus $3.00 refundable
deposit.
Are floats, belly boards or tubes allowed in the Surf Lagoon wave pool?
No floats, belly boards or tubes are allowed in the Surf Lagoon wave pool.
Can I bring food or drinks into the park?Are floats, belly boards or tubes allowed in the Surf Lagoon wave pool?
No floats, belly boards or tubes are allowed in the Surf Lagoon wave pool.
Yes, as always Wet ‘n Wild allows food and beverages to be brought into the park. However, alcoholic beverages, glass containers and grills are prohibited. Wet ‘n Wild reserves the right to limit size and quantity of “picnic baskets” and coolers.
Are tube rentals necessary to ride the rides?
No, you do not need to rent a tube in order to experience any of the rides. Tubes will be supplied at the rides that do require tubes.
Are children's floats (arm floats, inflatable tubes) allowed?
Yes, with parental supervision and only in the Lazy River, Kids' Park, Blastaway BeachTM and Surf Lagoon wave pool.
Are beach balls, frisbees and volleyballs allowed in the park?
Yes.
Are wheelchairs allowed in the park?
Yes.
Is there a dress code for the park?
T-shirts: T-shirts are allowed to be worn in the park and on most of the rides. T-shirts are prohibited on single passenger thrill rides such as The Bomb Bay or Der Stuka. Cover-ups/Board shorts: Cover-ups and board shorts are allowed in the park and on most of the rides. Please note that cut-offs or items with metal fasteners, rivets, zippers and buckles are prohibited. Water shoes: Water shoes are allowed to be worn in the park and on most of the rides. Water shoes are prohibited on single passenger thrill rides such as The Bomb Bay or Der Stuka.
All apparel is subject to lifeguard approval.
Wednesday, October 8, 2014
Flagship Cruises San Diego Harbor Tours Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Full Bay Cruise cover?
This tour covers it all: Harbor and Shelter Islands, Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument, North Island Naval Air Station, the Submarine Base, as well as the Coronado Bridge, and much more.
How long is the Full Bay Cruise tour?
The tour is about 25 miles in length and last 2 hours.
What does the North Bay Cruise cover?
View the North Island Naval Air Station, Harbor and Shelter Islands, the Naval Sub Base and the Cabrillo National Monument.
What does the South Bay Cruise cover?
Take in the Star of India, the U.S. Navy surface fleet, Coronado Bay Bridge and busy shipyards.
How long are the North and South Bay Tours?
Each tour is about 12 miles in length and lasts 1 hour.
Where do we board?
Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.
Can I bring food or drink on board?
No. However, for your convenience, snacks, beer, wine and sodas are available for purchase.
Is seating indoors or outdoors?
We provide both indoor and outdoor seating on our vessel.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The vessel and interior main deck are ramp accessible, however the exterior top deck and restrooms are not.
This tour covers it all: Harbor and Shelter Islands, Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument, North Island Naval Air Station, the Submarine Base, as well as the Coronado Bridge, and much more.
How long is the Full Bay Cruise tour?
The tour is about 25 miles in length and last 2 hours.
What does the North Bay Cruise cover?
View the North Island Naval Air Station, Harbor and Shelter Islands, the Naval Sub Base and the Cabrillo National Monument.
What does the South Bay Cruise cover?
Take in the Star of India, the U.S. Navy surface fleet, Coronado Bay Bridge and busy shipyards.
How long are the North and South Bay Tours?
Each tour is about 12 miles in length and lasts 1 hour.
Where do we board?
Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.
Can I bring food or drink on board?
No. However, for your convenience, snacks, beer, wine and sodas are available for purchase.
Is seating indoors or outdoors?
We provide both indoor and outdoor seating on our vessel.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The vessel and interior main deck are ramp accessible, however the exterior top deck and restrooms are not.
San Diego Dining Cruises ID 4535
What time should I arrive?
The ship boards 15-30 minutes prior to departure.
Where should I park?
Gated paid parking is available at the Five Star parking lot next door on the Naval Pier (next to the USS Midway), at the Cruise Ship Terminal Pier (B street) and off Pacific Highway at the corner of Broadway and Pacific Highway. Look for “Cruise Ship Terminal” Parking.
• 5 Star Parking (Corner of Broadway & Pacific Highway) - $12.00
• USS Midway Parking lot - $7.00 for first 4 hours, $10.00 for 10 Hours, $12.00 all day
• B Street Pier Parking lot - $12.00 all day
• Limited metered parking is also available for $1.50 per hour (2 hour max.)
*Parking rates subject to change*
What should I wear?
There is no official dress code, guests do tend to dress a bit more formally for the dinning cruise.
Is Smoking allowed?
No, smoking is not allowed on the vessel.
Where do we board?
Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.
Will I get seasick?
If you tend to have a problem with motion sickness, there is a chance you could get sea sick. It is recommended you take any medication before boarding the vessel. Wrist bands for motion sickness also work well. Either can be purchased at most drug stores.
What if it rains?
Tours are not necessarily cancelled due to rain, however if there is a wind advisory or if weather conditions are extremely poor, then it’s possible the tour will be cancelled by the Captain the morning of. We will do our best to contact you with the phone number you provide if a tour is cancelled. Should your tour be cancelled then you have a choice to either reschedule your tour for another date, or receive a full refund.
Are your boats safe?
Yes, all of our vessels are inspected regularly and are 100% Coast Guard Certified.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The vessel and interior main deck are ramp accessible, however the exterior top deck and restrooms are not.
What does the menu consist of?
Captain's Dinner Menu
Salad:
Entrée: (Please select one of the following entrees when making your reservation.)
Dessert Selections: (Choice of one)
There are Optional Starters available for an additional charge.
Do you have a children’s menu?
Yes, children ages 4-12 dine on Macaroni and Cheese Entrée, Chicken Fingers, Two Huge Chocolate Chip Cookies and Seasonal Fresh Fruit.
Do I need a ticket for my child under 3?
No, children under 3 are free and must be accompanied by an adult.
Is gratuity included?
Yes, a service charge is included in the cost of your ticket. However, if your experience is exceptional, gratuities are appreciated.
The ship boards 15-30 minutes prior to departure.
Where should I park?
Gated paid parking is available at the Five Star parking lot next door on the Naval Pier (next to the USS Midway), at the Cruise Ship Terminal Pier (B street) and off Pacific Highway at the corner of Broadway and Pacific Highway. Look for “Cruise Ship Terminal” Parking.
• 5 Star Parking (Corner of Broadway & Pacific Highway) - $12.00
• USS Midway Parking lot - $7.00 for first 4 hours, $10.00 for 10 Hours, $12.00 all day
• B Street Pier Parking lot - $12.00 all day
• Limited metered parking is also available for $1.50 per hour (2 hour max.)
*Parking rates subject to change*
What should I wear?
There is no official dress code, guests do tend to dress a bit more formally for the dinning cruise.
Is Smoking allowed?
No, smoking is not allowed on the vessel.
Where do we board?
Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.
Will I get seasick?
If you tend to have a problem with motion sickness, there is a chance you could get sea sick. It is recommended you take any medication before boarding the vessel. Wrist bands for motion sickness also work well. Either can be purchased at most drug stores.
What if it rains?
Tours are not necessarily cancelled due to rain, however if there is a wind advisory or if weather conditions are extremely poor, then it’s possible the tour will be cancelled by the Captain the morning of. We will do our best to contact you with the phone number you provide if a tour is cancelled. Should your tour be cancelled then you have a choice to either reschedule your tour for another date, or receive a full refund.
Are your boats safe?
Yes, all of our vessels are inspected regularly and are 100% Coast Guard Certified.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The vessel and interior main deck are ramp accessible, however the exterior top deck and restrooms are not.
What does the menu consist of?
Captain's Dinner Menu
Salad:
- Flagship Caesar Wedge – Crisp hearts of romaine, shaved Parmesan cheese, garlic croutons and classic Caesar dressing. Locally Baked Fresh Breads from St. Tropez Bakery and creamery butter.
Entrée: (Please select one of the following entrees when making your reservation.)
- Slow Roasted Creekstone Farms Prime Rib of Beef - Stone Smoked Porter au jus, creamy horseradish sauce, farm fresh vegetables, twice-baked rosemary, and white cheddar potato. (Sunday's Only)
- Eggplant Parmesan - Crispy breaded and baked eggplant with mozzarella and marinara served with linguini and oven roasted seasonal vegetables. (Vegetarian)
- Portobello Steak - Fresh Portobello mushroom marinated in red wine, garlic and cracked pepper then grilled. Served with herb roasted potatoes and seasonal vegetables. (Vegan, Gluten-Free)
- Braised Beef Short Rib - Beef short ribs marinated in red wine, fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, slow braised until meltingly tender, topped with caramelized onion relish. Paired with roasted garlic whipped potatoes and oven roasted seasonal vegetables. (Gluten-Free)
- Pan-Seared Sustainable Salmon Filet - Pesto glazed sustainable salmon with smoked tomato béchamel. Paired with roasted garlic whipped potatoes and oven roasted seasonal vegetables. (Gluten-Free. Contains Nuts.)
- Free-Range Chicken Breast - Bacon wrapped, blue cheese stuffed California free range chicken breast with mild red chili cream sauce. Paired with roasted garlic whipped potatoes and oven roasted seasonal vegetables.
Dessert Selections: (Choice of one)
- Semi-Traditional Mud Pie
- Classic Cheesecake
- Pecan Brownie ala Mode
- Fresh Seasonal Fruits and Local Berries
There are Optional Starters available for an additional charge.
Do you have a children’s menu?
Yes, children ages 4-12 dine on Macaroni and Cheese Entrée, Chicken Fingers, Two Huge Chocolate Chip Cookies and Seasonal Fresh Fruit.
Do I need a ticket for my child under 3?
No, children under 3 are free and must be accompanied by an adult.
Is gratuity included?
Yes, a service charge is included in the cost of your ticket. However, if your experience is exceptional, gratuities are appreciated.
Flagship Cruises Patriot Jet Boat Ride
Do you really see
whales?
Yes. San Diego is one of the top gray whale watching destinations in the world.
Allow enough time for traffic, find parking and to check in for your boarding pass. The cruise boards at 11:00 am. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. If you prefer a specific seating area, be early so you can be the first in line.
No.
Are your whale sightings guaranteed?
Yes! That means if you don’t see whales you will be issued a "whale check" that is good for another whale watching cruise, good for any day of the week. Or, if you prefer, you may request a ticket for a 1 or 2 hour narrated tour instead.
Will I get seasick?
If you tend to have a problem with motion sickness, there is a chance you could get sea sick. It is recommended you take any medication before boarding the vessel. Wrist bands for motion sickness also work well. Either can be purchased at most drug stores.
Yes. San Diego is one of the top gray whale watching destinations in the world.
Where should I park?
Gated paid parking is available at the Five Star parking lot next door on the Naval Pier (next to the USS Midway), at the Cruise Ship Terminal Pier (B street) and off Pacific Highway at the corner of Broadway and Pacific Highway. Look for “Cruise Ship Terminal” Parking.
Gated paid parking is available at the Five Star parking lot next door on the Naval Pier (next to the USS Midway), at the Cruise Ship Terminal Pier (B street) and off Pacific Highway at the corner of Broadway and Pacific Highway. Look for “Cruise Ship Terminal” Parking.
- 5 Star Parking (Corner of Broadway & Pacific Highway) - $12.00
- USS Midway Parking lot - $7.00 for first 4 hours, $10.00 for 10 Hours, $12.00 all day
- B Street Pier Parking lot - $12.00 all day
- Limited metered parking is also available for $1.50 per hour (2 hour max.)
*Parking rates subject to change*
What else do you see?
In addition to California gray whale adults and calves, you could also see finback whales, blue whales, humpback whales, minke, killer, and false killer whales. Additionally, you could see pods of hundreds of dolphins including risso's, common, and white sided, and other marine life such as sea lions and a variety of coastal birds.
In addition to California gray whale adults and calves, you could also see finback whales, blue whales, humpback whales, minke, killer, and false killer whales. Additionally, you could see pods of hundreds of dolphins including risso's, common, and white sided, and other marine life such as sea lions and a variety of coastal birds.
Is smoking allowed?
No, smoking is not allowed on the vessel.
No, smoking is not allowed on the vessel.
Why is this cruise different from your regular Whale
Watching cruise?
The Patriot Jet Boat Whale Watching cruise is a high speed, 1.5 hour trip out to sea and back. There are no naturalists on board. It’s a great way to go out to see the whales if you don’t have a lot of time, but want a great adventure!
The Patriot Jet Boat Whale Watching cruise is a high speed, 1.5 hour trip out to sea and back. There are no naturalists on board. It’s a great way to go out to see the whales if you don’t have a lot of time, but want a great adventure!
How far will we cruise into the ocean?
In the beginning of the season, the southbound whales swim closer to the coast, so the maximum distance is about 3-5 miles. Toward the end of the season, when the northbound whales swim further out, we can cruise up to 9-12 miles off the coast.
In the beginning of the season, the southbound whales swim closer to the coast, so the maximum distance is about 3-5 miles. Toward the end of the season, when the northbound whales swim further out, we can cruise up to 9-12 miles off the coast.
Can I touch the whales?
No.
No.
Should I make reservations?
Yes. Reservations are strongly recommended due to the popularity of this tour. There is the chance we will sell out on busy days, especially on the weekends.
Yes. Reservations are strongly recommended due to the popularity of this tour. There is the chance we will sell out on busy days, especially on the weekends.
What should I wear?
We suggest dressing in layers, as the temperature/winds are often unpredictable. The ride out to the whales can reach speeds of up to 50 mph. It will be cold and there is a strong possibility you may get wet. It is also recommend you bring sunscreen.
We suggest dressing in layers, as the temperature/winds are often unpredictable. The ride out to the whales can reach speeds of up to 50 mph. It will be cold and there is a strong possibility you may get wet. It is also recommend you bring sunscreen.
Do you have a place to store valuables?
No. Passengers are advised not to carry valuables while riding the boat. We do supply a small plastic bag to put a camera, phone or keys into. Flagship Cruises & Events accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to property.
What time should I be there? No. Passengers are advised not to carry valuables while riding the boat. We do supply a small plastic bag to put a camera, phone or keys into. Flagship Cruises & Events accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to property.
Allow enough time for traffic, find parking and to check in for your boarding pass. The cruise boards at 11:00 am. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. If you prefer a specific seating area, be early so you can be the first in line.
Where do we board?
Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.
Can I bring food or drink on board? Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.
No.
Are your whale sightings guaranteed?
Yes! That means if you don’t see whales you will be issued a "whale check" that is good for another whale watching cruise, good for any day of the week. Or, if you prefer, you may request a ticket for a 1 or 2 hour narrated tour instead.
Will I get seasick?
If you tend to have a problem with motion sickness, there is a chance you could get sea sick. It is recommended you take any medication before boarding the vessel. Wrist bands for motion sickness also work well. Either can be purchased at most drug stores.
What if it rains?
Due to the open-air seating, tours on the Patriot are cancelled due to rain. We will do our best to contact you with the phone number you provide if a tour is cancelled. Should your tour be cancelled then you have a choice to either reschedule your tour for another date, go out on the regular tour (if available) or receive a full refund.
Due to the open-air seating, tours on the Patriot are cancelled due to rain. We will do our best to contact you with the phone number you provide if a tour is cancelled. Should your tour be cancelled then you have a choice to either reschedule your tour for another date, go out on the regular tour (if available) or receive a full refund.
Are your boats safe?
Yes, all of our vessels are inspected regularly and are 100% Coast Guard Certified.
Yes, all of our vessels are inspected regularly and are 100% Coast Guard Certified.
Is seating indoors or outdoors?
The Patriot has only outdoor seating available. We recommend that you dress in layers and be advised that you may get wet.
The Patriot has only outdoor seating available. We recommend that you dress in layers and be advised that you may get wet.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
No. All guests, including those with disabilities or who use a wheelchair, must be able to transfer into and out of the Patriot by themselves or with the assistance of a member in their party.
No. All guests, including those with disabilities or who use a wheelchair, must be able to transfer into and out of the Patriot by themselves or with the assistance of a member in their party.
Flagship Cruises Whale Watching with Birch Aquarium Frequently Asked Questions
Do you really see whales?
Yes. San Diego is one of the top gray whale watching destinations in the world.
In the beginning of the season, the southbound whales swim closer to the coast, so the maximum distance is about 3-5 miles. Toward the end of the season, when the northbound whales swim further out, we can cruise up to 9-12 miles off the coast.
No. However, for your convenience, we have a snack bar plus hot and cold beverages available on board for purchase.
Yes. San Diego is one of the top gray whale watching destinations in the world.
Do you see more whales in the morning or afternoon?
Your chances of seeing whales are the same on the morning or afternoon cruise.
Your chances of seeing whales are the same on the morning or afternoon cruise.
What day of the week is better?
Your chances of seeing whales are the same no matter what the day of the week, however, weekend tours tend to be more crowded.
Your chances of seeing whales are the same no matter what the day of the week, however, weekend tours tend to be more crowded.
Where should I park?
Gated paid parking is available at the Five Star parking lot next door on the Naval Pier (next to the USS Midway), at the Cruise Ship Terminal Pier (B street) and off Pacific Highway at the corner of Broadway and Pacific Highway. Look for “Cruise Ship Terminal” Parking.
Gated paid parking is available at the Five Star parking lot next door on the Naval Pier (next to the USS Midway), at the Cruise Ship Terminal Pier (B street) and off Pacific Highway at the corner of Broadway and Pacific Highway. Look for “Cruise Ship Terminal” Parking.
- 5 Star Parking (Corner of Broadway & Pacific Highway) - $12.00
- USS Midway Parking lot - $7.00 for first 4 hours, $10.00 for 10 Hours, $12.00 all day
- B Street Pier Parking lot - $12.00 all day
- Limited metered parking is also available for $1.50 per hour (2 hour max.)
*Parking rates subject to change*
What else do you see?
In addition to California gray whale
adults and calves, you could also see finback whales, blue whales, humpback
whales, minke, killer, and false killer whales. Additionally, you could see
pods of hundreds of dolphins including risso's, common, and white sided, and
other marine life such as sea lions and a variety of coastal birds.
Is smoking allowed?
No, smoking is not allowed on the vessel.
No, smoking is not allowed on the vessel.
Why are you different from other whale watching companies?
Flagship Cruises & Events is the only company whose tours are guided by experts from Birch Aquarium at Scripps, now celebrating our 14th year of partnership. Proceeds from each tour help support Birch Aquarium at Scripps’ education and conservation programs.
How far will we cruise into the ocean? Flagship Cruises & Events is the only company whose tours are guided by experts from Birch Aquarium at Scripps, now celebrating our 14th year of partnership. Proceeds from each tour help support Birch Aquarium at Scripps’ education and conservation programs.
In the beginning of the season, the southbound whales swim closer to the coast, so the maximum distance is about 3-5 miles. Toward the end of the season, when the northbound whales swim further out, we can cruise up to 9-12 miles off the coast.
Can I touch the whales?
No.
No.
Should I make reservations?
Yes. Reservations are strongly recommended due to the popularity of this tour. There is the chance we will sell out on busy days, especially on the weekends.
What should I wear? Yes. Reservations are strongly recommended due to the popularity of this tour. There is the chance we will sell out on busy days, especially on the weekends.
We suggest dressing in layers, as the
temperature/winds are often unpredictable. Be prepared for cool weather even if
it’s sunny out side. It is also recommend you bring sunscreen and a hat.
What time should I be there?
Allow enough time for traffic, find parking and to check in for your boarding pass. The morning cruise boards at 9:15am and the afternoon cruise boards at 1:00pm. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. If you prefer a specific seating area, be early so you can be the first in line.
Allow enough time for traffic, find parking and to check in for your boarding pass. The morning cruise boards at 9:15am and the afternoon cruise boards at 1:00pm. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. If you prefer a specific seating area, be early so you can be the first in line.
Where do we board?
Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.
Can I bring food or drink on board? Boarding is located at 990 N. Harbor Drive, at the corner of Broadway and Harbor Drive. Look for the ticket booth with the black awning for check in.
No. However, for your convenience, we have a snack bar plus hot and cold beverages available on board for purchase.
Are your whale sightings guaranteed?
Yes! That means if you don’t see whales you will be issued a "whale check" that is good for another whale watching cruise, good for any day of the week. Or, if you prefer, you may request a ticket for a 1 or 2 hour narrated tour instead.
Yes! That means if you don’t see whales you will be issued a "whale check" that is good for another whale watching cruise, good for any day of the week. Or, if you prefer, you may request a ticket for a 1 or 2 hour narrated tour instead.
Will I get seasick?
If you tend to have a problem with motion sickness, there is a chance you could get sea sick. It is recommended you take any medication before boarding the vessel. Wrist bands for motion sickness also work well. Either can be purchased at most drug stores.
If you tend to have a problem with motion sickness, there is a chance you could get sea sick. It is recommended you take any medication before boarding the vessel. Wrist bands for motion sickness also work well. Either can be purchased at most drug stores.
What if it rains?
Tours are not necessarily cancelled due to rain, however if there is a wind advisory or if weather conditions are extremely poor, then it’s possible the tour will be cancelled by the Captain the morning of. We will do our best to contact you with the phone number you provide if a tour is cancelled. Should your tour be cancelled then you have a choice to either reschedule your tour for another date, or receive a full refund.
Tours are not necessarily cancelled due to rain, however if there is a wind advisory or if weather conditions are extremely poor, then it’s possible the tour will be cancelled by the Captain the morning of. We will do our best to contact you with the phone number you provide if a tour is cancelled. Should your tour be cancelled then you have a choice to either reschedule your tour for another date, or receive a full refund.
Are your boats safe?
Yes, all of our vessels are inspected regularly and are 100% Coast Guard Certified.
Yes, all of our vessels are inspected regularly and are 100% Coast Guard Certified.
Is seating indoors or outdoors?
We provide both indoor and outdoor seating on our vessel.
We provide both indoor and outdoor seating on our vessel.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
The vessel and interior main deck are ramp accessible, however the exterior top deck and restrooms are not.
The vessel and interior main deck are ramp accessible, however the exterior top deck and restrooms are not.
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