RESPECTFUL WHALE WATCHING FROM MOSS LANDING, CALIFORNIA
The Shelltone Whale Project is an environmental organization that carefully selects whale-watching operators committed to a respectful approach.
Marine biologists and experienced naturalists who put animal welfare first.
Book directly with operators selected by the Shelltone Whale Project, at the best available rate and with no additional fees.
The Shelltone Team’s Review
Located in the heart of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Moss Landing is one of California’s most privileged departure points for discovering the richness of the marine world. Just offshore, the Monterey Submarine Canyon rises from the depths of the Pacific, creating conditions that support an extraordinary diversity of cetaceans and marine wildlife throughout the year.
We selected this team for the quality of the experience they provide and the care they take in observing marine wildlife under the best possible conditions. Their small-group approach gives every guest the time and space to observe, photograph and fully appreciate each encounter with the animals.
The presence of an experienced captain and a professional wildlife photographer adds a unique dimension to these expeditions. Beyond simply spotting whales, guests are encouraged to pay closer attention to animal behavior, changing light conditions, the surrounding seascape, and the many subtle details that make an encounter with the living world truly memorable.
Every trip is different. Some days are defined by humpback whales, others by dolphins, orcas, seabirds, or unexpected moments that cannot be planned. What makes this experience valuable is not the search for a spectacle, but the opportunity to spend meaningful time at sea within one of the Pacific Coast’s most remarkable ecosystems.
What it means to be “Shelltone selected”
Every operator featured here has been selected because it complies with the Shelltone Charter.
Cetaceans are never approached at more than 5 knots.
Animals are always approached from an angle that follows their direction of travel, never by cutting across them.
Mothers with calves are never approached.
These principles form the foundation of the Shelltone Charter. Our selection also considers the overall attitude of the operator, the quality of the guidance provided, and the ability to recognize when choosing not to approach is the most respectful decision.
These are not recommendations. They are the conditions under which every Shelltone Selected Operator is chosen.
What We Particularly Appreciate Here
The invitation to slow down and observe. An approach that reminds us that the most meaningful encounters with wildlife are not measured only by the number of animals we see, but also by the quality of the attention we give them.
BOOK DIRECTLY THROUGH THE OFFICIAL BOOKING CALENDAR OF OCEANIC EXPEDITIONS.
NO INTERMEDIARY. NO ADDITIONAL FEES.
AVAILABILITY AND PRICES ARE PROVIDED DIRECTLY BY THE OPERATOR.
Photos from the Moss Landing expedition
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