Goldstar

• Rated 4.0
• Written on Mar 27 2008

I took my family for my husbands birthday. We spotted 2 California gray whales. The best part were the dolphins! Hundreds of them. They came right up to the boat. The narration by the captain was excellent. The captain and crew were friendly and informative. I would definately go back.

• Rated 4.0
• Written on Jan 30 2008

Fabulous! A really amazing and awe-inspiring experience. We didn't see much at first and I understand that some trips are duds because the whales can't be forced to make an appearance. But after an hour or so of evasions and frustration we were rewarded with many sightings (one of the crew counted at least 20 different whales) and even--ahem--two mating couples! We also saw delightful dolphins and sea lions. This trip would have been well worth the full price, but with Goldstar it's a no-brainer. The trip lasts 4 hours, so for the sail alone it's worth it. The captain pointed out many interesting sights along the way, including military installations that are not really view-able from any other vantage point. On the way back, we even got to see a nuclear powered sub being escorted on its way out to sea. During the return voyage, docents from the Natural History Museum gave a nice little talk below deck about the whales, complete with hands-on objects like a piece of balleen.
I really do not see how this could have been a better experience. To make sure you really enjoy yourself, however, I do have some advice: Dress warmer than you think you need to (bring layers and a windbreaker and gloves), don't forget binoculars if you have them (or they are for rent on board), bring snacks/sandwiches unless you want to pay snack-bar prices--and finish with a bowl of clam chowder and a glass of wine at the Fish Market, on the other side of the Midway for a perfect end to a perfect day. Also, if you tend toward sea-sickness, don't forget the Dramamine!

• Rated 4.0
• Written on Mar 21 2008

I loved this excursion. The weather was great for a cruise. While we didn't see any whales, we did see thousands of dolphins. It was like the sea was bubbling with dolphins. It was awesome. I paid with an amex card so I received a comp photo package. That was a nice little extra touch. Since we didn't see any whales everyone was given a comp ticket to try the cruise again (exp. 03/31/09). I'll definitely go again next whale season.