A terrific whale watching experience! Yacht America is beautiful and spacious, and Captain Troy & the crew are fantastic. Highly recommend!!

This was such an incredible thing to do! They delivered on their promise and more. We were able to see a blue whale and even it's tail. There were sea lions and dolphins that swam with us next to the boat. It was so fun and the crew took great care of us the whole time. I would highly recommend this trip! read more

It was an absolutely delightful experience. They care about the animals and they care about customer satisfaction. We saw 4 blue whales and captain Troy personally came to ask us if we wanted to stick around for a little longer even if we docked later. Also, love the boat. read more

This was an awesome experience. We went on our first sailing on a Monday but didn't see any whales. Captain Troy offers a no whale guarantee. If you don't see a whale on your trip, you can come back for free anytime. We were only In San Diego for the week so we decided to go again on Friday. We were lucky enough to see a blue whale and several pods of dolphins. It was amazing. Definitely a once in a lifetime experience. The crew is so knowledgeable and provide info throughout the entire trip. The stories they tell are entertaining as well. I would definitely go back and take a bunch of people with me. read more

Great experience. Professional and friendly staff. Best value for whale watching in San Diego. Highly recommended!

We had such a wonderful time. The captain and crew were great hosts. They explained important sights as we passed them and were very friendly. We got very lucky and found Orcas! They said it was only the second time in 13 years that's happened. Everyone was so excited. It was a great way to spend a day in San Diego. I'm so glad we booked with them and would highly recommend Next Level Sailing without hesitation. read more

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I highly recommend Next Level Sailing! The whale watching was fantastic, and very successful (4 total blue whales, and 2 extra spouts in the distance). Dress in layers, even during the summer. Sailing is the most eco-friendly way to explore the oceans. Don't let any fear of sickness stop you, because the crew is well prepared and patient. This is a life changing experience! read more

This was an amazing experience overall, it was our first time doing a whale-watching excursion, or even being out on a boat with sails on the open ocean. We saw several pods of dolphins - two different kinds (the Pacific common short beaked and offshore bottlenose), but did not see anything larger than that. For landlubbers like us, it was a little unnerving that the boat was bobbing and yawing so much, yet people were casually walking around the deck, even close to the stern where there was no railing. Life jackets were optional, which was another surprise - aren't they required by law, it's not like this was a large stable boat. The crew was cheerful and competent, although it was hard to hear what the captain said often due to the lack of a PA system. read more

Next Level Sailing - Sailboat that we were on (the America) - Boat Charters Near Me - San Diego, California

Great experience and fantastic crew! They were very informative and knew exactly there to go to allow the passengers to spot blue whales.

HIGHLY RECOMMEND this trip. Crew was very professional and nice. Our family completely felt safe and taken care of. We saw whales and had a GREAT time. Well worth it. read more

We saw a blue whale! The crew was very knowledgeable and accommodating. Not only did we see a blue whale, but dolphins too. My daughters were feeling a little sea sick and the crew knew provided natural remedies to help them enjoy the trip. read more

Next Level Sailing - The tail of a blue whale. - Boat Charters Near Me - San Diego, California

This was a great experience on an amazing tall ship! We saw 3 whales and tons of dolphins. I felt completely safe with their COVID protocols while having the freedom to move around safely! read more

Next Level Sailing - Boat Charters Near Me - San Diego, California

This was a wonderful experience for the whole family. The crew and captain were very helpful and very kind. They stayed out longer than anticipated to ensure we got to see a whale (they followed a cow and calf pair of humpbacks for us for a while!). It was great! I highly recommend. Also, heed the warning to dress warm. It can get quite cold on the water (with the wind eapecially!) read more

We saw several blue whales, crew and boat were awesome.

Captain Troy and his crew are so well organized, so experienced and customer interaction has to make Next Level the best whale watching tour in San Diego. Please do yourself a favor and choose Next Level for your next excursion. read more

An absolutely incredible experience!! The ship is gorgeous and well taken care of. It gives a lovely feel of being on the ocean without being rocky. The crew was friendly, helpful and informative. Also the ship was quiet when the whales were present and it added to the sanctity of the experience. read more

Well worth the time to go sailing with Troy and the America. A SUPER way to go whale watching! The America is a beautiful 163 foot sailboat that gives you a total unique way to experience whale watching. Troy and his crew are AWESOME, they work hard to ensure a great trip and they are very intent on finding Dolphins and Whales! Would HIGHLY recommend this to EVERYOHNE! read more

Took my parents on this whale tour during their trip here. It was a fun time navigating to the whales and being on the beautiful ocean. The Captain and Crew made it a very enjoyable experience. read more

Excellent crew and fun day aboard the America. The crew and captain are so skilled and at the same time friendly and helpful. They gave us a fun and exciting day, everything we were expecting. read more

Hands down the best whale watching money can buy. The crew was excellent, personable, and super accommodating. The ship was unreal and it was such an experience to simply be on the ship. Hundreds of dolphins, a few whales, and a lovely time sailing the open ocean! read more

Thanks for discriminating against me a second time. Not being able to explain myself in English doesn't mean you're right. I've never been subjected that kind of attitude in USA. And none of the accusations you have brought against us is true. In addition to your discrimination, false statements have been added. People have always been kind here towards us throughout these 3 years after me moved. I love being here, living here and love all my American and other immigrant friends . They make me feel like I am home. This is my first time I've been subjected to such rude behavior here. That's why we are so suprised. But as I understand this is your usual attitude. Sorry for that. And I am also sorry I'm an expert in behavioral neuroscience but I have nothing more to say to you and your attitude which is such a disappointment. read more

Went for a Valentine's Day gift this weekend and had so much fun! The crew is so interactive and knowledgeable about, and the boat is spacious and feels very safe. We saw lots of whales and dolphins and had an all around amazing experience. Recommend for locals and visitors alike! read more

Next Level Sailing - San Diego skyline - Boat Charters Near Me - San Diego, California

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Great crew and trip! We saw 2 types of whales, sea lions and dolphins. The crew was very knowledgeable and friendly. Definitely a must when visiting San Diego! read more

We had the best time with Next Level. We saw beautiful whales and learned so much. This is an amazing experience for the whole family. They even had story learning time for the kids. The crew and staff were so knowledgeable. They knew exactly what to look for. Cannot say enough about how much we learned! Highly recommend!!! read more

Next Level Sailing - Boat Charters Near Me - San Diego, California

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We loved it! Got to see humpback and gray whales, porpoises, sea lions and many birds. the staff was professional, educated about the sea and the animals, and cared for the patrons on board. It was cold out on the water, and there were plenty of blankets to go around. A couple people got seasick and the staff cared for them. Overall smooth sailing. Great communication before and during the trip. They answered my email questions promptly. read more

Watching whales and sailing a schooner - what could be better? Oh, when both go very well and the crew is excellent! I have been out at least 5 times in the last 8 years or so and keep coming back. Captain Troy and his crew know the whales, where to find them, how to identify them, and can answer most questions you can dream up. It is very unusual for them to come back "skunked". You are in very good hands here. This ship is a modern and yacht quality replica of the schooner America which won the famous America's Cup in 1851. Not only does she sail well and fast, but very comfortably. If you've been on a powerboat on the ocean you will be amazed at the smooth ride you get with those big sails up damping the motion. No seasickness here, just pure pleasure. They generally seem to sail without the engine for at least part of the 4 hour trip and motor sail while searching for whales. But if you are really lucky the wind will be just right and they can turn off the engine and sail along with the whales. That's even more pleasant for those above and below the water. Oh, dress warmer than you can imagine you will need to in sunny southern California! read more

My husband, mother-in-law & I went on the whale watching trip on the Beautiful America & had a wonderful time! The staff is very knowledgeable & informative. It was my first time on a boat like that & it was so nice I can't wait to do it again! We saw many dolphins jumping around us but no whales, even though the Captain would have stayed out as long as it took, so we can go back for another trip for free because of their guarantee, which is great! We'll definitely return when back in San Diego read more

Next Level Sailing - Saw many beautiful dolphins! - Boat Charters Near Me - San Diego, California

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I rarely rate a business they have to be way beyond my expectations to even get the stars. This is the first time I've given five stars. If you want an exceptional experience you can't go wrong with Captain Troy The six of us were traveling with our SIL who has to be in a wheelchair. The crew of the American were attentive and very accommodating; making sure that she had a view. Being in the sailboat we were very close to the water. The whales were very interested in the boat. Captain Troy had to make many course corrections so we were the required distance from the whales. We were able to see whales for over 75 minutes. I am very prone to seasickness and I was not ill all day! I highly recommend this over any other whale watching, truly a wonderful experience! read more

We went on this whale watching sailing tour today 3/28/23. The whole process was super easy and fun. I purchased the tickets online, and the email instructions for where to meet were very clear. The tour itself was wonderful - what a beautiful sailboat, and wonderful staff. Lots of snacks and drinks. And they were very attentive to ensure no one was seasick. Two thumbs up! read more

My family of four took a whale watching trip on December 30th and it could not have been better! This was my second time aboard the America, last being in 2012, obviously pre-COVID. The preparations for passenger safety and health now are very good; for anyone concerned about safety, it should be noted that all groups are seated separately in distinct areas and need to wear masks until underway, and the crew takes many precautions for this along the entire trip. As far as the whales, we were so fortunate to see a southbound gray whale within the first hour of the trip and followed it closely, allowing many great photographs and a real sense of awe, especially under full sail. After breaking off to look for another group of whales, the First Mate (Fathom) went to each group on the boat to give detailed info on the various whale behaviors and biology, which was very cool. Lastly, one thing not often mentioned in other reviews is how great the sightseeing also is! As a native San Diegan living in Point Loma for years, it is truly a pleasure to see the beautiful harbor, the Naval Bases up close (submarine base and North Island), all of the other pleasure boats, and the magnificent Cabrillo national monument and cemetery from the ocean. It would be a great trip for these reasons even if no whales were seen! I highly recommend Next Level Sailing and their great crew! read more

This experience was the highlight of our trip and we didn't even see a whale! We did however see a lot of dolphins. Just being on the boat was wonderful. Then you add the amazing attitudes and professionalism of the crew and it pushed it over the top. I was blown away by how accomodating, respectful and professional this company was. Everything you see on Next Level Sailings website is exactly what you will be experiencing and more! Fathom is very informative and a great communicator. Ryan is awesome and Scarlett is such a sweet dog. We had such a beautiful day and look forward to our next trip. read more

We booked this experience based on the great reviews and it did not disappoint. It really felt like we were guests on their Yacht. The captain and the whole crew are clearly living their bests lives and it shows how happy everyone is to be out sailing. Also, they could fit a lot more people on the boat, but they are taking their COVID protocols and distancing very seriously. They wiped everything down between uses including the bathrooms and handrails. Everyone has their own space on the boat and when you are in that space you can choose to take off your mask. If you get up and walk around, you put it back on. The crew were masked the whole time. It was extra special to be on the boat with so few people. It was a really special experience. One of our kids got a little queasy out at sea and they went out of their way to cater to him and help ease his seasickness. By the end, he was smiling and enjoying the trip. Don't miss this experience! read more

Wow! Much better than expected, particularly during covid. The ship is beautiful with a truly interesting yachting history, and the crew is passionate, knowledgeable, and relentless when it comes to finding whales! They had an extremely well thought-through plan for dealing with the fact that some folks are extremely careful and concerned with covid protection and procedure, and some families are likely to be lax, disinterested, and think it's all a hoax... how to protect both interests when everyone is stuck on a boat together? Well, you don't have to hurt your brain on the matter, because the crew of the America came up with the answer, and on this spacious ship with views from all sides, the kept everyone happy and safe. Snacks are minimal. We packed sandwiches and were glad we did, because the crew stayed out nearly 2 additional hours on news of a whale spotting further out (they checked with everyone on board, and we were unanimous). That's dedication! And finally, I was very concerned that 4 (turned out to be nearly 6!) hours on a little boat would be either boring or sea-sick inducing... and honestly, I never felt bored for a moment. They have a great educational program on board that's very personalized (Fathom, the science guide, goes around and talks to each small group and is spot-on with age-appropriate interests), and the beautiful ocean and sky and sails all make for a peaceful and beautiful day at sea. Oh, yeah: DON'T FORGET SUN SCREEN AND A HAT! read more

Ahoy Mateys!!! What a great way to spend an afternoon in San Diego! The boat is amazing ( a reproduction of a historic schooner), the crew friendly and accommodating (even had blankets for when it got cold out there!) and the scenery kept changing with sea lions cavorting about and the city of San Diego in the background. No whales on the day we were there- but we did see the Navy Seals which was almost as exciting! Our "host" for the day was an affable chap named "Al". What a character! But he made the whole experience fun, from raising and lowering the American flag, to pointing out interesting sights along the way, to nicely reminding us where to sit when they were trying to dock the boat. And don't worry about having a few drinks on board- the "facilities" down below are quite nice and it's easy to maneuver the stairs. No need for Dramamine or other "cures" either. This is a smooth sailing ship that never really leaves the harbor so there is none of the dipping and swaying that sometimes keeps people off of boats. Ask when you book what you can bring on board to drink or eat. Individuals are responsible to bring on their own beverages unless set up in advance. Ahoy Mateys! This is a great way to see San Diego from a whole different perspective!!! read more

Went out whale watching this past weekend and had a great time. We saw a few grey whales, a finback whale, dolphins and sea lions during our 5 hour tour. Things to know before you go: -Right now (early March) is the tail end of the whale watching season (ha, tail end!) so the grey whales are pretty much all business about getting back to Alaska, and they dont meander or breach like they do on their way down to Mexcio. If you want the best whale watching experience, you have to go in December or early January. -I am pretty sure you have to buy tickets online through the "next level sailing" website. The place where we checked in had no mention of our tour on any of the signs. It doesn't seem like something people walk up and decide to do last minute. -Your ticket on the boat gets you free entry into the maritime museum for the same day. -The staff on board is very knowledgeable. However, they do not give formal presentations. You have to make the effort to go up to them and ask them questions. -IT GETS COLD. This past Sunday was a low 80 degree day onshore, and we were pretty cold out there. I was bundled in a jacket, and my boyfriend who was wearing a light jacket and shorts was regretting not wearing pants. They have blankets to offer to people who didnt dress warmly enough for the trip, but I highly suggest you wear pants and bring a decent jacket. -This boat is gorgeous. I picked this tour because not only do you get to go see whales, you get to ride on a replica of the historic sailing yacht that won the first America Cup back in the 1800s. They will even let you help haul up the sails if thats your thing. -My boyfriend who is known to get seasick was able to take the 12 mile out to sea journey without any hint of nausea, to our relief. They even offer a "no-sea sickness" guarantee. -You are allowed to bring your own food and alcohol on board. Coolers are acceptable. They just dont want glass out on the deck. So, if you bring wine, you can have the bottle, but you have to pour into plastic, and the store the bottle away. -They provide complementary water, soda, and snacks (a variety of snack crackers and "baked" chips), but its a long trip, and you should bring your own food. -On the way back they offer hot-chocolate! -Keep in mind you are taking a 4-5 hour trip out to sea, and there is not a lot to keep you entertained. If you are bringing kids, you should bring something for them do to. And also dress them warm enough. And bring food. A bored, hungry, and cold child has the potential to ruin everyone's experience. Hell, a bored, hungry, and cold me is a nasty sight too. Why this is not a 5 star review: -The scheduled 4 hour tour actually took 5 since we had to go so far out to see whales. I didnt have anything planned afterward so it wasnt a big deal, but this is probably not the thing to do if you have plans later that afternoon. -They overbooked out trip by 1 person, so a couple had to volunteer to get off. They offered to refund their money and give them a free trip, so they were compensated, but it still sucks to have to change you plans because the ticket office messed up. read more

I had heard an advertisement through SDCCU for a discount on Whale Watching...I have lived in San Diego and have never been. I thought it would be something fun to do for Valentine's Day! It was super easy to book. I really liked the description because they limit the number of people they take and it was a true sailing experience...not being on a jamb packed ferry. They also GUARANTEE that you will see a whale and you will also not get sea sick! We had a fabulous time!! It was so much fun! I would so highly recommend this adventure to anyone. We loved Al...the narrator for the excursion. We had great weather...we saw some whales and all in all had a wonderful day sailing on San Diego Bay! Description from their website... In the 2008/2009 season the beautiful 'America' carried over 4,300 guests to the whale grounds in her 110 sailings. This was amazing support from the public in what is the worst economy in decades. This wonderful support is testament to the 'value' included in every trip. Here are the main ingredients with every ticket purchased: * A lifetime opportunity to sail on the most famous racing sailing vessel in the world. * Free entry to the wonderful "Maritime Museum of San Diego" * A "NO Seasickness" Guarantee * A "Whale Sighting" Guarantee * BYO lunch & alcohol for a "Picnic On The Ocean" with the whales and dolphins * The 'Green' way to get up close with 'Mother Nature' Most charter vessels close whale watching by April 7th, however scientific evidence and long term data show positive proof that these Baja Gray Whales are still migrating in quite large numbers past San Diego through until the end of April. The "American Cetacean Society Los Angeles Chapter" have been monitoring and recording whale migration passing Los Angeles for 30 years. These volunteers watch the migration from the cliffs of Palos Verdes and in their own words... "we see only a small proportion of the total gray whale population". Hence the yacht 'America' will commence our season on December 19 and sail through to April 15 or longer if sightings and public support prevail. In 2009/10 we will continue to provide a 'whale sighting guarantee', a 'No seasickness guarantee', entry to the 'Maritime Museum of San Diego' and the BYO 'picnic lunch' option as has been very popular in past seasons. Join us and see what makes the whale watching tours on America experience so popular. From December 19 through to April 15th experience a rare opportunity to whale watch on AMERICA, the famous San Diego racing yacht. Experience San Diego sailing as never before on our luxury and historic yacht America as we go whale watching. This is the peak season for whale watching, when some 28,000 Gray Whales migrate over 10,000 miles to Baja California where they birth their young. Your AMERICA whale watching ticket also includes the $14 admission ticket to the San Diego Maritime Museum. Here you can pursue all of the amazing history, boats and ships that the Maritime Museum has to offer. Explore the magnificent "Star of India", prowl an ancient Russian Submarine and navigate your way through "Surprise," the beautiful ship from the movie "Master & Commander." AMERICA is the ONLY sailing yacht that opens its decks to the public each day as we head out to watch the grace and beauty of California Gray Whales. Unlike other San Diego whale watching tours that use diesel engines (which can cause some ocean-goers to become seasick), our AMERICA yacht is a sailing yacht, allowing us to offer a "no seasickness" guarantee. When you sail with us to the ocean, should sea sickness spoil your experience we will invite you back to sail with us free of charge on another day, OR we will issue you a $40 Gift Certificate for lunch at the famous San Diego "Fish Market" restaurant. That is how confident we are that you will not get seasick! Make no mistake about it, this is not your ordinary whale watching trip -- this is a "once in a lifetime" thrill. The famous "America", the whales, dolphins and nautical history....this is by far the "Premium" whale watching experience in Southern California. read more

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I woke up last Sunday, and thought, what a gorgeous day- I want to go sailing! Neither my husband or I had ever been sailing before. I grew up boating, but never sailing, and I knew they were quite different. So a quick Google/Yelp search landed me on the Dennis Conner home page. Gave them a call, and delighted to find that they had extra space for the day's sail, signed us up! We went on the 2.5 hr SD bay excursion on the Stars and Stripes, a boat which won the America's Cup Regatta in 1995. What a treat! Troy was our skipper, and let me tell you, he was amazing!! His son and another gentleman were his crew, and the 18 or so guests on board were also excited to act as crew, as most of us took a hands-on role. (But if you don't want to to be active, no need to fret- you are totally welcome to just sit or stand around and enjoy the breeze and the sights.) Troy was VERY knowledgeable about just about everything- from sailing, the America's Cup, San Diego, anything! He was very personable and answered all of our questions. He is funny, warm, and will provide you with an amazing tour of both SD bay, and you will learn your way around a sailboat. I felt very safe and no one got sea sick! We even got a special bonus no one had planned on- a Portuguese Navy ship was in town, leaving the harbor en route to Hawaii while we were sailing- so we got some amazing once-in-a-litetime photo ops. Troy even asked everyone if it was OK to extend the tour a little bit, so we could sail alongside the ship for a while. Of course everyone was 'gung-ho' for added adventure! I highly recommend this tour for those who want to see the city from a great view, learn a little about sailing, and go fast (crave a little adventure)! I liked the small group size- 18, maybe 20 guests- made it easy to take part in steering, adjusting the sails, asking questions, have a nice group conversation, etc. (I think the America is a much larger ship that holds more like 100??) Beware this is a sailboat, so no bathroom of course! Glad I reminded myself of that right before we boarded. Also, they provide waters and sodas during the trip, which was nice. (They told me over the phone that I could BYOB and stick in the cooler if I wanted... haha!) I felt SOOOO bad that I didn't have any cash on me to tip the awesome crew. When I bring friends and family on this tour (because I will for sure!), I will be sure to tip them double :) I am also active duty for the Navy, and though I didn't ask at the time of booking, Troy said they offer a military discount! Awesome! Gotta love our small businesses that support the troops. Your sailing ticket also gives you admission to the Maritime museum, so leave a little extra time either before or after sailing to go through all the ships of the Maritime museum. Definitely a value, and makes for a great day down at the harbor. Another glowing review for Dennis Conner's America's Cup Experience, and especially Troy Sears and crew, for truly making our day amazing! read more

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Very friendly crew and enjoyable trip. Had a great relaxing time. Saw a few whales. Glad I dressed warm.

We had a great trip with Next level sailing Captain Troy and the crew are always great. This was my 3rd time sailing with them. I would recommend sailing with them. We got to see 3 Grey whales this trip. read more

Really enjoyed our whale watching trip on this beautiful boat. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable. There was complimentary beverages and snacks. You could purchase wine or beer. You could also bring lunch. They have a whale guarantee so you can come back for free if you didn't see whales. You also get free admission to the Maritime museum. I would suggest lots of sunscreen and a hat! read more

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