Two sailing charters now offer the opportunity to spot sharks in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary. While whale watching excursions remain popular following migratory patterns of Humpback Whales from April through November, and Gray Whales from December through April, the public’s fascination with the largest predatory fish in the ocean has driven this new twist on wildlife watching. 

O’Neill Sailing Charters and Santa Cruz Whale Watching both offer tours specific to spotting sharks. Blue shark (Prionace glauca) sightings are somewhat common in the summer and great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) can be seen year around on occasion, feeding on large fish and pinnipeds. Leatherback Sea Turtles, Sun Fish, Harbor Seals, Sea Otters, Dolphin and Porpoise can also be seen on these trips. Two-hour shark tours with Santa Cruz Whale Watching cost $50 per person.