Whale Watching Small Group Tours &amp; Trips

premier

5/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Lodging level

Basic - 2 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Santo Domingo

Highlights

Visit Loreto
Enjoy whale watching session
Enjoy Kayaking in the Sea of Cortez

Themes

Family Friendly, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"When my partner and I went on a whale watching trip with Sea Kayak Adventures five years ago, we concluded that it was one of the best things we had ever done - especially the encounters with the grey whales in Magdalena Bay. I decided that I wanted an excuse to visit the whales again and I found this in a plan to go back with my family so that we could introduce them to my family and share their joy in this trip. As always, when organising such a treat, I was desperate that it would be as good a second time. I need not have worried, under the expert guidance of Monica (who amazingly had been a guide on our first trip) and Fabian our family group were wowed by whales that swam close, sky-hopped, breached and swam to our boat, rubbed against it, looked us in the eye mammal-to-mammal and then let us rub their skin. Wow oh wow! My niece even discovered that one whale had shared two of its sealice with her! Simply amazing and thanks to Monica and Fabian for sharing their knowledge, enthusiasm and expertise with us, and to Vicky for the excellent food."

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-29%$2,793

8 days From$1,995

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Humpback Base Camp Tour

premier

5/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Flexible schedule

Highlights

Visit Port McNeill
Experience the Broughton Archipelago Marine Provincial Park
Enjoy first Nations culture as you slowly paddle through this pristine wilderness and go hiking through ancient island rainforests

Themes

Family Friendly, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

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-26%$1,349

4 days From$999

Health Safety

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Best of Alaska

By Intrepid Travel

premier

5/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Alaska, Anchorage, Chugach Mountains, Denali, Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward, Valdez

Highlights

Head out on an Alaskan safari for a unique chance to see moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves in their natural habitat in Denali National Park.
Take a boat cruise on Resurrection Bay to Kenai Fjords and look out for orca whales, porpoises and puffins before enjoying some free time to hike or relax.
Discover Seward, one of Alaska's oldest and most scenic communities, then take a short hike to the tongue of Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park.
Sit back and take in stunning views along the dramatic coastlines of the Turnagain Arm from Anchorage to Homer, then from Seward to Denali National Park, while someone else does the driving.
On the way to charming Talkeetna, take a breath in Girdwood, where you’ll hop on the Alyeska Aerial Tram to the top of Mt Alyeska and see some incredible views of seven glaciers and the valley below.

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"We joined the Intrepid “Real Italy Food Tour” and enjoyed it thoroughly. Our tour guide, Micol, was very knowledgeable and provided us with lots of good information. It seems Micol knew many of the staff of the venues we visited, including the pasta making class we attended. Our group of 11 travelers was extremely compatible, which greatly added to the fun and enjoyment."

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-19%$6,753

10 days From$5,490

Health Safety +

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Isla San Jose Kayak Tour

premier

5/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

La Paz, San Francisco, San José, San José del Cabo

Highlights

Have a chance to see giant blue whales swim by, or fin whales or orcas
Explore La Paz
Visit the beautiful Sea of Cortez island has dozens of long beaches of golden sand, perfect for beach combing.
Discover Isla San José

Themes

Cultural, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

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-26%$1,821

6 days From$1,349

Health Safety

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God's Pocket Wilderness Resort Kayak Tour

premier

5/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Highlights

Start the trip with a stunning boat cruise past rugged mountains, forested islands, and wildlife rich waters
Arrive atGod's Pocket Resort
Stay atthe only building in God's Pocket Provincial Park
Paddle the sheltered waterways surrounding the many islands that make up the park
See humpback whales, orca, porpoises, seals, sea lions, sea otters and bald eagles

Themes

Family Friendly, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

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-26%$3,983

6 days From$2,950

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Kayak with Orcas - Johnstone Strait

By ROW Adventures

premier

5/5 Excellent

81 reviews

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’ve been recognized by major travel publications for their pioneering adventure travel expertise that spans back to their founding in 1979.

Lodging level

Basic - 2 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Highlights

Enjoy with wildlife-watching, we kayak in the heart of orca territory in Johnstone Strait.
Our basecamp location provides opportunity for hiking, tide-pooling, and learning about the natural history of the area.
Admire an entire ecosystem including starfish, anemones, porpoises, eagles, and sea birds.
All tours are fully-catered (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and happy hour) with gourmet meals prepared daily by our guides—from scratch. Each day, you enjoy scrumptious meals before laying your head on a pillow merely meters from passing orcas.
This trip is ideal for families with older teens, novice to intermediate kayakers craving adventure, and whale lovers who want to experience up-close encounters with orcas! Guides bring hydrophones on all tours so you can hear the orcas communicating underwater while watching them interact.

Themes

Eco, Sustainable & Green Travel, Family Friendly, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"I have travelled with ROW numerous times, including four trips on the Rogue River. Every trip has been wonderful and every person associated with ROW has been nice, knowledgeable, professional and fun. The Rogue is a great river and the trip is an excellent one for two people or a large group—and I have done both. I’ve taken both of my kids, one time each, and have organized groups of colleagues twice; most recently in 2019 when 14 of us gathered. The guides at ROW are great and help to make the trip very enjoyable. The scenery, lodging and the wonderful outdoors including warm air and refreshing water, make for a wonderful escape from the everyday routine. The fact that this trip offers beds and indoor plumbing is a nice benefit and allows those who have an aversion to camping a chance to see the wilderness. I have recommended ROW and the Rogue trip more times than I can count and my group has already reserved our trip for 2021. What are you waiting for?"

By Overseas Adventure Travel (O.A.T. Tours)

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-57%$2,298

4 days From$999

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Untamed Iceland

none

1/5 Terrible

Small Group Tour

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Blue Lagoon, Lake Myvatn, Reykjavík, Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Highlights

Visit a local horse farm to meet affable Icelandic horses first brought to the country by Viking settlers
Discover some of Iceland's Saga-like history at the Settlement Center in Borgarnes.
Enjoy views of colorful mountain cliffs, pristine fjords, and fertile valleys where horses graze.
Visit a museum dedicated to this once-thriving industry before returning to Akureyri.
Visit the stunning Gullfoss waterfall

Themes

Cultural, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."

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12 days From$4,495

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Grand Tour of China

By Voyages Jules Verne

none

4.7/5 Excellent

69 reviews

Small Group Tour

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Beijing, Chengdu, Great Wall of China, Hong Kong, Shanghai

Highlights

Visit the Forbidden City and Tian An Men Square
Visit Shuanglin Temple
Visit the Terracotta Army and Great Wild Goose Pagoda
Visit Nanjing Road and the Bund.
Visit the West Lake, Six Harmonious Pagoda

Themes

Cultural, Small Ship Cruise, Religious

What travelers are saying

"The cruise was cancelled 2 weeks before departure. The replacement was a serious step down and appalling. The Croisi Boat (MV Beethoven) should be avoided at all possible cost. It is a rattling banging creaking heap. VJV just dump people when they arrive (they booked flights and transfers) with no refreshments, no protection from the cold and no information. They are just let to wait for the boat to allow them on, which was around 2 hours. To save money, they all dock alongside each other and this boat is the last. You need to cross two other boats to get ashore and the crossings are precarious and worrying for elderly or disabled passengers. It is impossible to sleep in cabins akin to prison cells with the torture of noise all night long"

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22 days From$4,969

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Peninsula Valdes Sea Wildlife

By Say Hueque

preferred

4.5/5 Excellent

Self-Guided / Independent Tour

Why we love them

They have extensive knowledge of Argentina and the surrounding region and their specialists have visited the destinations they send travelers to.

Lodging level

Standard - 3 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Flexible schedule

Visits

Patagonia, Puerto Madryn

Highlights

Enjoy awhale-watching tourin Argentina. Get close to the stunning Southern Right Whales and learn all about these incredible animals.
Explore Península Valdés Natural Reserve declared a UNESCO World Heritage.
Go on apenguin tour and visit Punta Tombo the largest colony of Magellan penguins in South America.
Best time to travel: From October to April.

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

"Just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you and your team for a fantastic holiday in Argentina! We loved the country and the people. The highlights for us was Iguazu Falls, the wine tour & the little hotel in Mendoza and the Glacier trekking. The Glacier was amazing!!! All flights were on time and your guides were always there to meet and great. Please pass on a special thank you to Carla who looked after us in BA and kept in touch all through our travels. Thanks again to Lujan, who did a fantastic job putting it all together and we will recommend you and your company to all our friends & family."

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-26%$1,843

4 days From$1,365

Health Safety

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Best of Alaska

By Intrepid Travel

premier

5/5 Excellent

Small Group Tour

Why we love them

They’re very committed to sustainable and responsible tourism and contribute to important initiatives like climate action.

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Alaska, Anchorage, Chugach Mountains, Denali, Denali National Park, Kenai Fjords National Park, Seward, Valdez

Highlights

Head out on an Alaskan safari for a unique chance to see moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves in their natural habitat in Denali National Park.
Take a boat cruise on Resurrection Bay to Kenai Fjords and look out for orca whales, porpoises and puffins before enjoying some free time to hike or relax.
Discover Seward, one of Alaska's oldest and most scenic communities, then take a short hike to the tongue of Exit Glacier in Kenai Fjords National Park.
Sit back and take in stunning views along the dramatic coastlines of the Turnagain Arm from Anchorage to Homer, then from Seward to Denali National Park, while someone else does the driving.
On the way to charming Talkeetna, take a breath in Girdwood, where you’ll hop on the Alyeska Aerial Tram to the top of Mt Alyeska and see some incredible views of seven glaciers and the valley below.

Themes

50 plus, Cultural, High Adventure, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife

What travelers are saying

By Real New Zealand Tours

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-19%$6,753

10 days From$5,490

Health Safety +

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21 Day Grand Tour Discover Real New Zealand

Local Expert

Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.

5/5 Excellent

40 reviews

Self-Guided / Independent Tour

Why we love them

They are dedicated to providing personalized, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences that showcase the best of their country.

Lodging level

Luxury - 5 star

Physical level

Easy

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Pacific Ocean, Queenstown, Rotorua, Tasmania, Wellington

Highlights

All inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand based specialists so you sit back and relax
An exciting itinerary will be customised to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
We offer self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accomodations, activities, attractions (you select) we book your car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day or, select a private driver trip (fully guided) or, escorted coach tours (daily commentary).
Either way, you will have an awesome time on our wonderful 21 day Grand New Zealand Tour with Real New Zealand Tours.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Sailing, Golf

What travelers are saying

"Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go and, after a small number of iterations, together we were able able to craft an itinerary that met our budget, touched on much of the places we wanted, and did not have us staying at a different resort each night. Before leaving for our trip we were given our itinerary and confirmation #'s/vouchers/contact #'s for all of our activities and hotels captured in an easy-to-use app that made it extremely easy to transition to the next point of our journey. He and his assistant were quick to respond to any questions we had along the way as well. Overall, we had a great stay and highly endorse Geoff and RealNZ for anyone planning a bespoke trip to NZ."

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-12%$3,990

21 days From$3,500

Generous cancellation

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Philippines (Bohol & Cebu): in 6 Days, 1st Class Custom Tours

By Charlie The Traveler

Local Expert

Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.

5/5 Excellent

Private Guided

Why we love them

Travelers report that traveling with CharlieTheTraveler is a life-changing experience, in the best possible way.

Lodging level

Luxury - 5 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Full schedule

Visits

Apo Island, Badian, Bohol, Cebu City, Dumaguete, Manila, Oslob, Samboan

Highlights

Swimming with Whale Sharks
Swimming with Sea Turtles
Canyoneering & Cliff Jumping at Kawasan Falls
Climbing Waterfalls (a.k.a. Canyoning) at Aguinid Falls
Seeing Chocolate-Looking Hills

Themes

Cultural, Education / Learning, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Relaxing Retreats, Photography

What travelers are saying

"Thank you guys for setting up this trip. We spent 7 days in Palawan and Coron island and enjoyed every day. The remote coordinator worked very well for us through Whatsup, and the daily itineraries were exactly what we expected. Not too much and not too short. We recommend this tour for every one who wants to explore these locations"

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-12%$2,233

7 days From$1,959

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Antarctica Expedition & Wild Patagonia

By Across South America

Local Expert

Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.

5/5 Excellent

65 reviews

Small Ship Cruise

Lodging level

Premium - 4 star

Physical level

Moderate

Trip pace

Balanced schedule

Visits

El Calafate, Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego National Park, Ushuaia

Highlights

Torres del Paine Luxury Camp
Walk on the Perito Moreno Glacier
Explore the "End of the world"
Nature at its best at the Small Luxurious Expedition Cruise to Antarctica.
Adventure in Antarctica: Ice-Camp and Kayak

Themes

Birding, Cultural, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise, Trekking & Expeditions, Sailing, Photography

What travelers are saying

"I highly recommend Across South America for a memorable experience that is personalized for YOU."

Whale Watching One Week Top Itineraries

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-19%$19,926

21 days From$16,200

Generous cancellation

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Whale Watching Reviews & Ratings

5/5 Excellent

107 Reviews

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Excellent

Great

Average

Disappointing

Terrible

Eric

Oct 2019

Written on

A Close Encounter of the Orca Kind

I have been on this trip 3 different time, and each time has been unique, and so amazing. The guides were so great, and knowledgeable, the food was fantastic, and th...

Kimmie

Sep 2019

Written on

This was one of the best vacations I have ever gone on

This was one of the best vacations I have ever gone on. It was amazing to see the humpbacks slapping their tails and orca swimming by our base camp every evening. Bu...

Lin Teichman

Aug 2019

Written on

Best Trip Ever

This trip exceeded all expectations for a kayaking trip. Not only were the guides wonderful, the food amazing and the participants fun, but the sheer numbers of whal...

Michelle

Jul 2019

Written on

Incredible Kayaking with Orcas

If you're looking for an opportunity to kayak with whales, specifically orcas, this is an incredible adventure. Not only did we get the opportunity to see orcas from...

Jimbo

Sep 2018

Written on

Amazing Johnstone Straight Experience - Kayaking, Fun, Wildlife, great food, beautiful location

We recently took the Orca Base Camp trip with Sea Kayak Adventures. It was amazing. Yes its camping. We were well taken care of and got to paddle in this pristin...