Boat Tours | Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Renovation Updates

Please note some exhibit spaces in the Aquarium are temporarily closed while we conduct maintenance and renovation work. Learn more on our Renovation Progress page .

A whale breachs in front of the Virginia Beach coastline.

Whale Watching Tours

This incredible winter boat tour lets you coast along our shoreline in search of humpback whales and bottlenose dolphins, as well as an immense variety of seabirds and waterfowl. Whale sightings are not guaranteed and all tours are weather-dependent. Tour schedules are subject to change. A portion of all ticket sales supports our education, research, and conservation initiatives.

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Whale Watching Tour Schedule

Whale Watching Tour Rates

Adult (12+) | $34.95

Youth (3-11) | $34.95

Child (0-2) | Free

Adult (12+) | $32.95

Youth (3-11) | $32.95

Child (0-2) | Free

Adult (12+) | $31

Youth (3-11) | $31

Child (0-2) | Free

Adult | $31

Student | $31

Charter | $1,500

Charge Per Guest After 50 Guests | $30 Each

No child rate is available for private group charters.

Our Whale Watching Vessel

The Atlantic Explorer

The Atlantic Explorer is a Coast Guard certified and inspected catamaran operated since 2015 by our partners at Rover Cruises.

What to Expect on a Tour

All ages are welcome, but tours may not be appropriate for younger guests.
Restrooms are available on the Atlantic Explorer, as well as refreshments for purchase. Interior seating is available in our climate-controlled cabin.
The Atlantic Explorer is accessible for manual wheelchairs. The captain and crew can assist anyone needing to transfer from a motorized to a manual wheelchair for the tour.
Please leave backpacks or large bags locked in your car.
Alcohol and large coolers are not permitted aboard the boat.
Discounts for Atlantic Explorer tours are available for groups of 15 or more.
Advanced online reservations are strongly encouraged.
Tickets are non-refundable unless the tour is canceled by the captain.
Passengers should report to the Aquarium Boat Dock (near the outdoor Seal Exhibit) at least 30 minutes prior to their scheduled tour.

Responsible Whale Watching

We Are Proud Participants Of Whale SENSE!

Whale SENSE is a voluntary education and recognition program offered to commercial whale-watching companies in the U.S. Atlantic and Alaska Regions. Sponsored by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Whale and Dolphin Conservation, Whale SENSE recognizes companies committed to responsible whale-watching practices.

Learn More About Whale SENSE

Dolphin Leaping Out of Water On Dolphin Tour

Dolphin Watching Boat Tours

Dolphin watching season has concluded for 2024. Check back in spring 2025 for future tours! Our excursions offer an unforgettable journey in search of Virginia's most common and charismatic marine mammal: the bottlenose dolphin. If you are ready to find adventure, make memories, and inhale the fresh air, then come let the salty ocean mist kiss your cheeks and the offshore breezes fill your lungs. Learn from our knowledgeable educators about our other Virginia coastal animals like majestic seabirds, curious sea turtles, and unique fish species. Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed and all tours are weather-dependent. A portion of all ticket sales supports our education programming, research work, and conservation initiatives.

Have Questions?

Learn more about our Boat Tours on our FAQs page!

Frequently Asked Questions