Top Questions Guests Ask on the Boat (And the Surprising Answers!)

The Curiosity That Powers Every Trip

Whale watching brings out curiosity in everyone—kids, parents, seasoned travelers, and first-timers. At Dana Wharf, we love answering the fun, wild, and unexpected questions our guests ask while out on the water. Here are some of our favorites, along with the surprising answers you may not expect.

“Are those dolphins or baby whales?”

This is probably our most common mix-up—and it’s understandable! Common dolphins often travel in large pods, leaping playfully beside the boat. But they’re not baby whales. Dolphins and whales are both cetaceans, but dolphins are their own species group, and their behavior is very different.

“Do whales sleep?”

Yes, but not like us. Whales sleep with one half of their brain at a time, allowing them to stay conscious enough to breathe. This adaptation is fascinating and crucial to their survival in the open ocean.

“Can we pet them?”

We get the excitement, but whales are protected wildlife. Federal regulations require a safe viewing distance. Dana Wharf prides itself on responsible, non-invasive whale watching.

“How do you know where to find whales?”

Our captains are incredible (more on that below!). We combine decades of experience, real-time communication with other boats, and a deep knowledge of seasonal patterns and sea conditions to know where to go.

“What’s the biggest whale you’ve seen?”

The blue whale is the largest animal on Earth—and yes, we’ve seen them many times. In summer, they migrate right past Dana Point, often coming impressively close to our boats.

These questions are what make our tours fun and educational. So if you’ve got a burning whale question—ask away!