Dolphins and seabird are among the creatures seen on whale watching tours.
Whale watching tours are a popular way to see the bay – and dolphins too. Photo by Chris Stone

City Cruises has unveiled its springtime cruise schedule, which includes holiday celebrations on San Diego Bay and in three other Southern California markets.

San Diego features weekly Whale Watching Cruises along with dining cruises tailored for Restaurant Week – through Sunday – family-friendly celebrations for Mother’s Day and Easter, brunch and dinner cruises and a variety of specialty events for brides and those with four-legged friends. 

Similar slates are offered in Newport Beach, Long Beach and Marina Del Rey.

Overall, the spring offerings available throughout Southern California include:

  • Easter Premier Brunch Cruise – a two-hour brunch cruise on March 31 with specialty wines, signature cocktails, a buffet of seasonal offerings, including a kids’ station, live entertainment and a visit from the Easter Bunny. Guests ages 21 and older will enjoy unlimited mimosas. There’s a 2.5 hour Easter dinner cruise as well. In addition, there’s a promo code, EASTER20, for 20% off for parties of up to 19 guests.
  • San Diego Pet Day on the Bay – with cruises departing at 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. on April 20, guests may cruise the  north and south routes alongside their furry friends and get the first listen of the new 90-minute narration of “Best of the Bay.” A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the San Diego Humane Society and guests who contribute a gently used blanket or towel for animals in need will receive two complimentary “Best of the Bay” cruise tickets.
  • San Diego Wedding Showcase – for the first time, City Cruises hosts a free wedding showcase, at 10 a.m. April 28. Future newlyweds can sample complimentary hors d’oeuvres and bubbly, with access to local wedding vendors, as well as representatives from City Cruises to chat about planning a wedding onboard. Brides-to-be interested in attending can RSVP online
  • Mother’s Day Premier Brunch Cruise – while onboard on May 12, enjoy a chef-inspired buffet with a selection of wine, champagne and classic cocktails. There also will be a dinner cruise.

Admission starts at $35 and varies from cruise to cruise.