Whale Watching in Rocky Point

One of the most popular things to do in Puerto Peñasco in the winter months of January through March is to go whale watching.  Both fin and humpback whales generally start arriving in this part of the Sea of Cortez near the end of January and depart in March.  They have their babies on the Pacific side of the Baja Sur and then make their way into the Sea of Cortez and come very close to Rocky Point. Puerto Peñasco is the only destination in Sonora officially authorized by the Secretary of the Environment and Natural Resources for whale-watching.

Over the years, the number of boats offering whale-watching excursions in Puerto Peñasco has increased. Be sure to choose an option that follows guidelines to ensure the safety of the majestic mammals while offering you an unforgettable adventure.

Señorita Rita

Pancho Villa Charters

If you are looking for another personalized tour, you may consider Pancho Villa Charters.  This family-owned cabin cruiser has been in business since 2002. It is wonderful for smaller groups and the crew will make sure you see whales, as well as pointing out sites to you along the way. The boat is a 57’ Californian yacht that offers plenty of comfortable seating in the rear as well as the bow and the inside cabin. This is the perfect yacht for whale watching as you can great pictures no matter where you are seated or standing.

Along with doing whale watching trips, they also offer sunset cruises, fishing tours and special occasion parties. If you love to fish, they can take you out for smaller fish or go out to the 25 mile and 50 mile reefs for the big fish.  The fishing tour is a 6 hours trip, snorkel and swim trips are 3 hours and the sunset cruise is a 2 hour cruise. On the sunset cruises and whale watching trips, they offer water, soda and great Margaritas or you can bring your own. Pancho Villa Charters are all about making memories for you that will last a lifetime.

For more information you can contact them at 602-904-1700 or 638-110-3487.  Check out their website at www.PanchoVillaRockyPoint.com or send them an email to panchovillarockypoint@gmail.com

Del Mar Charters

Check out Del Mar Charters whose skipper Oscar Preciado has years of experience navigating the Sea of Cortez, and has even been referred to as the “whale whisperer.” For whale watching hop aboard the 42’ catamaran “TEMPO” that will carry up to 20 people. Alternatively, the “Marilys” can accommodate up to 10 people. On the whale-watching trips that last approximately 3 hours you will have your choice of water, soda, beer, or margaritas. Cost for the whale watching is $50.00 USD per adult, $25.00 USD for children 5 – 12. Children under 4 are free. (Prices subject to change, confirm upon booking)  If fishing is your thing they will take you out on their 30’ Grady White speedboat named “Paraiso”.  They furnish all the licenses as well as equipment and bait.

For more information or to make a reservation call 520-407-6054 or go to reservations@delmarcharters.com or Craig@delmarcharters.com.

All of these boats book up quickly, so make your reservations as soon as possible.  Don’t forget to bring your camera and cell phone to get some great pictures.  Even though the whale watching trips are during the day, it can still be cool, so bring a jacket.  Remember Puerto Peñasco (aka Rocky Point) is only a 4 hour drive from Phoenix or Tucson, so come down and enjoy everything it has to offer.

Updated: January 2025

Please leave this field empty

Oh hi there 👋
It’s nice to meet you.

Sign up to receive awesome content in your inbox, every month.

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

Thanks for signing up! Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.