FAQ

do you have doubts or questions?

1. What species of whales and dolphins will we see?

The whale watching industry in the area is based around humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) migrating to the region each winter. However, we may well also see Bryde’s whales (Balaenoptera edeni), gray whales (Eschrichtius robustus), false killer whales (Pseudorca crassidens), orca killer whales (Orcinus orca), bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), pantropical spotted dolphins (Stenella attenuata) and rough-toothed dolphins (Steno bredanensis).

We may also see turtles usually the olive ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), manta rays (Manta birostris) and a great diversity of bird life including the blue footed boobie (Sula nebouxii).

Of course being out on the ocean……..anything is possible!

2. Where do we meet? What do we need to Bring?

We DO NOT MEET AT THE OFFICE. We meet on the beach at the very south end of Sayulita beach where you find the fishing boats. On Google Maps you will find it in front of the resturant “The Dock” or the “Hotel Patas Saladas”. There will be one to three La Orca staff waiting for you by the boat. Just ask anyone down there and they will also point you out to the boats. You will recieve information in your confirmation email of the name of the boat. Please bring sun glasses, sun block and a light jacket or sweater. It is best to not wear shoes, but sandals or light footwear. There are lifejackets of all sizes for everyone and towels, water and snacks aboard.

3. What will i need to take with me to go whale watching?

It is a good idea to bring with you a warm sweatshirt or jacket, sun screen, and sunglasses.

4. What happens if we don't see any whales?

We do not guarantee whale sightings as nothing in nature is predictable. However, in the unlikely event that we do not find any whales for you, we will offer you a space on our next available trip. If you are not here for that time this year, you can always come back next year!

5. What happens if there is rough weather?

If we consider the weather to be to rough to go out, we will cancel the trip and try and go out again ASAP. If we cancel the trip, you will receive a full refund.

6. Why is there a minimum age?

In consideration of other people on board. If you have young children and would like to bring them, they are welcome on any of the private tours. We generally recommend 6 as the minimum age for the trip. If your child has grown up on boats we may make exceptions. Unfortunately, as we have limited spots the cost is the same for everyone

7. What kind of boat is used for the whale watching?

We are leaving from Sayulita beach in local fisherman “pangas”. A “panga” is an open hulled fibre glass boat that is usually 27 feet in length.

8. What languages do the guides speak?

All the guides speak English and Spanish, and we hopefully can arrange an Italian or French guide if specially requested.

9. Why do whales jump?

You will have to come on the tour to find out !!