Boating in Morro Bay
Morro Bay, with its calm waters and iconic views of Morro Rock, is an ideal destination for boating enthusiasts. This guide to boat rentals in Morro Bay highlights the perfect way to explore the bay from the water. From thrill-seekers to laid-back explorers, Morro Bay’s boating options offer something for everyone.
Top Morro Bay Boat Rentals and Tour Companies
If you’re looking for guided tours or boat rentals in Morro Bay, several companies in Morro Bay cater to a variety of interests.
I’ve had the pleasure of trying a couple of these companies, including a thrilling whale watching tour and an enriching birding tour. Both experiences were unforgettable, and I have several others on my bucket list to explore!
Discover Morro Bay by Boat: Find Your Perfect Adventure on the Water
From serene electric boats to thrilling whale-watching tours, Morro Bay offers a variety of boat rentals and cruises for every type of adventure. Imagine gliding through the harbor on a Tiki cruise, savoring local wine on a sunset tour, or celebrating special moments with family and friends on a private charter.
Whether you’re craving a deep-sea fishing trip, an intimate brunch on the bay, or a unique chowder cruise, Morro Bay’s boat rentals and tours offer endless options to explore the water and create lasting memories. Dive in to find the perfect adventure for your day on the bay!
Prices may vary, so be sure to check the website for the latest rates.
Budget Friendly Morro Bay Boat Rentals
Estero Adventures
Experience the fun of self-guided, easy-to-use electric pontoon boats, perfect for family outings, romantic dates, birthdays, picnics on the water, and creating special memories. These boats accommodate up to 10 people, making them great for families, couples, and celebrations.
Prices start at $100 for 1 hour, $150 for 1.5 hours, and $200 for 2 hours. Prices are for two people, with an additional $10 per extra person, and kids 12 and under ride free. All boats are pet-friendly (fee applies) and accessible for everyone.
Morro Bay Boat Rentals
Explore Morro Bay with Morro Bay Boat Rentals’ new 20-foot pontoon boat, featuring a 10 HP self-driven engine, perfect for family and friends. With space for up to 8 people and comfortable marine-grade carpeting, it’s ideal for leisurely outings.
Rental rates are $125 for 1 hour and $200 for 2 hours, making it a great opportunity to enjoy the beautiful waters of Morro Bay, whether for a quick cruise or an extended adventure!
Bay Cruisers
Perfect for family and friends to discover the stunning shoreline and diverse wildlife at your own pace in an electric boat. These boats are ideal for relaxation and enjoying picturesque views, making them great for celebrations like engagements and birthdays.
Choose from rental rates of $100 for 1 hour, $145 for 1.5 hours, or $180 for 2 hours, accommodating up to 9 passengers. Bring along food and drinks for a picnic on the water, and feel free to include your pets for a memorable outing!
Luxury Yacht Charters
The Papagallo II
If you’re planning a big event, consider renting The Papagallo II, Morro Bay’s premier 72-foot luxury motor yacht. Perfect for everything from elegant dinner parties to festive cocktail cruises, this yacht provides stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Morro Bay National Estuary, complete with breathtaking sunsets and refreshing sea breezes.
With a capacity for up to 50 guests, The Papagallo II offers customizable experiences, including gourmet catering and a fully stocked bar. A typical 2 to 3-hour cruise lets you explore iconic landmarks like Morro Rock while enjoying exceptional service in a vibrant atmosphere.
Chablis Cruises
Chablis Cruises offers a truly special experience on a 50-foot, two-story riverboat cruising through Morro Bay Harbor, featuring elegant interiors and stunning rooftop views, perfect for weddings, parties, and corporate events. They also offer budget friendly two public cruises for all ages to enjoy.
- Luncheon/Harbor Cruise: One of their most popular option is the daily 2-Hour Luncheon/Harbor Cruise, also known as the Chowder Cruise, starting at $38. It’s definitely on my bucket list—who wouldn’t want to savor award-winning clam chowder, Caesar salad, and a turkey croissant while taking in the scenic harbor? For those just wanting to sightsee, there’s a lunch-free option too.
- Brunch Cruise: For a more indulgent experience, the Monthly Brunch Cruise offers a two-hour, all-inclusive spread starting at $78. Highlights include a brunch buffet with waffles, pastries, and optional bottomless mimosas. The route takes guests by iconic sights like Morro Rock and the back bay, with chances to spot local wildlife such as sea lions and white pelicans.
Chablis Cruises truly captures the beauty of Morro Bay with memorable cruises and delicious dining—definitely worth checking out for a day on the water!
Toast the Coast
If you’re thinking about treating yourself to a luxury yacht experience, Toast the Coast has some unique charters in Morro Bay that are worth exploring. Although the price might be a bit steep for me, I would be absolutely delighted to be invited on one of these cruises someday.
Each charter accommodates up to six guests and includes a captain, personal steward, and unlimited beverages. Here are some of their most popular options:
- Wine Tasting Experience ($749/hr): Savor Central Coasts’ wines while soaking in Morro Bay’s stunning scenery.
- Morro Bay Harbor Tour ($549/hr): Relax as you drift through the bay, spotting sea otters and sea lions from your private yacht.
- Out to Sea Adventure ($649/hr): Cruise the coast with chances to anchor at secluded beaches or visit nearby spots like Cayucos or Avila Beach.
- Whale Watching ($899 for 1.5 hrs): Experience the thrill of spotting whales and other marine life up close.
- Party in the Harbor ($549/hr): Perfect for special events like birthdays and intimate
- Full Luxury Yacht Experience (starting at $1,799): offers two hours of elegance on the water. You’ll enjoy two bottles of wine, a beautifully arranged charcuterie board, chocolates, fresh flowers, perfect for an unforgettable celebration. Plus, Toast the Coast lets you customize any trip to make it uniquely yours!
Whale Watching Tours
If you’ve never been whale watching, Morro Bay is the perfect place to indulge in this thrilling adventure. My own experience was unforgettable—I was fortunate enough to see a humpback whale up close!
We followed the whale from a safe distance, watching in awe as it gracefully breached and spouted. I highly recommend joining one of these tours; it’s an experience that should be on everyone’s bucket list.
Morro Bay Whale Watching & Sub Sea Tours
Experience the wonders of whale watching through this family-owned and operated tour company, which proudly celebrates 23 years of unforgettable adventures in Morro Bay.
- Humpback Whale Watching (May – November): Encounter playful humpback whales as they feed in the waters off the Central Coast. $65 adults, 3 hours.
- Gray Whale Watching (December – May): Witness the awe-inspiring migration of gray whales traveling between Alaska and Mexico. $65 adults, 3 hours.
- Whale Watching Catamaran: Cruise aboard our 33-foot catamaran, the Dos Osos, for a comfortable and stable viewing experience. $60 adults, 3 hours.
Insider Tip: Book during peak seasons (March-May and August-November) for the best chance to see humpbacks and gray whales. For an enhanced experience, bring a camera with a zoom lens to capture these gentle giants.
Lost Isle Adventures
Lost Isle Adventures offers an unforgettable way to experience Morro Bay’s beauty, guided by passionate locals who share their love for the Central Coast. Choose from a range of exciting tours, each providing a unique perspective on this stunning coastal region:
- Whale Watching on The Angler: Join a skilled crew on a scenic tour to observe whales up close. Ideal for both marine enthusiasts and first-timers. $65 per adult, up to 21 people, 2-3 hours.
- Go Fast Whale Watching: For those seeking a thrill, this high-speed adventure boat delivers an exhilarating whale-watching experience. $90 per adult, up to 6 people, 1.5 hours.
For those looking to celebrate special occasions, private boat charters are also available, up to 22 guests. Options include a full-day cruise priced at $500 or a sunset cruise for $600.
Insider Tip: Opt for the morning tours, as waters tend to be calmer, making it easier to spot whale spouts and breaches.
Which Month Offers the Best Whale Watching in Morro Bay?
The answer is all year long! It’s truly remarkable. Morro Bay provides exceptional whale-watching opportunities throughout the entire year, as various species migrate along the Central Coast. Knowing the best times to spot these magnificent creatures can enhance the experience for both enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
- December to May: Grey whales make their annual migration south from Alaska to the warm lagoons of Baja California, peaking from December through early February. These medium-sized whales, reaching up to 45 feet, can be identified by their dark grey skin and unique white markings from barnacles. As they return north from February to May, mothers with calves travel slowly along the shoreline, offering prime whale-watching opportunities.
- May to October: Summer brings sightings of both blue and humpback whales along the Central Coast. Blue whales, the largest creatures on Earth at up to 90 feet long, can be spotted alongside playful, acrobatic humpbacks, making for a thrilling whale-watching season.
Tips for Whale Watching
To maximize the whale-watching experience:
- Book Tours in Advance: Reserve spots online or via phone to ensure availability, especially during peak seasons.
- Bring Binoculars: A good pair of binoculars enhances the viewing experience and allows for better sightings of these magnificent marine mammals.
- Dress Appropriately: Layered clothing is recommended, as coastal weather can change rapidly. Don’t forget sunscreen and hats for protection from the sun.
By planning visits around these prime times, whale watchers can witness the stunning migrations of grey whales, humpbacks, and blue whales while enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the Central Coast.
Fishing Adventures
Morro Bay’s history is steeped in commercial fishing, and today it remains a leader in sustainable fishing practices.
While deep-sea fishing has never been my personal passion, I truly admire the dedication it takes to rise before dawn and spend hours in pursuit of a great catch. Commonly caught fish include rockfish, lingcod, halibut, tuna, and salmon.
Virg’s Landing and Morro Bay Landing
For those interested in a guided fishing adventure, Virg’s Landing and Morro Bay Landing offer public trips, including:
- Half-Day Trip: 6-hour excursion, ideal for beginners.
- 3/4-Day Trip: 8 hours of fishing excitement.
- Full-Day Trip: 10 hours on the water.
- 12-Hour Trip: A full-day journey for dedicated anglers.
Prices range from $90 to $200 depending on the trip length.
Insider Tip: Virg’s Landing offers fish-cleaning services at the end of the trip, so you can take your catch home for a fresh seafood meal. Try their “Twilight Fishing” trips in the summer for a unique sunset experience on the open ocean.
Pacific Charters
For a more private experience, Pacific Charters offers charters for up to six people, starting at $1,000.
Must-Try Morro Bay Boat Adventures: Sunset Cruises, Harbor Tours, and Unique Experiences
Sunset cruises in Morro Bay offer a romantic and unforgettable way to experience the bay’s calm waters, golden-hour glow, and diverse wildlife.
Many local rental companies provide sunset cruise packages, and some even allow you to rent boats specifically during sunset hours for a customized outing.
Here’s a guide to some top options for sunset, harbor, and specialty cruises to help you enjoy the scenic waters of Morro Bay to the fullest.
Stew’s Bay Cruise
Hosted by Morro Bay Landing, Stew’s Bay Cruise offers a perfect setting for a relaxed or romantic evening on the water. This one-hour harbor tour provides stunning views of Morro Rock and the bay, making it an ideal way to unwind and spot local wildlife like otters, seals, and various bird species.
The final tour of the day, the sunset harbor tour, is especially popular for capturing the bay’s natural beauty at golden hour. Tours start at $23 per hour.
Tiki Cruise
Offered by Lost Isle Adventures, the Tiki Cruise is a family-friendly 45-minute harbor tour that highlights local wildlife and shares fascinating historical insights. All for just $25 for adults and $15 for kids. Every time I see this boat in the harbor, I can’t help but feel drawn to join them—it looks like such a fun and cool experience!
Sunset Cruise
Experience what could be the only adults-only sunset cruise in Morro Bay! This tour is exclusively for those aged 21 and over, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing evening on the water.
The cruise lasts for 60 minutes, with public tickets priced at $30 per person, upto between 6 to 22 passengers. For those seeking a more private experience, a charter for up to 22 guests is available for $600.
While aboard, guests can savor a selection of 1950s-style tiki cocktails from the full bar, along with a limited range of beer and wine.
4th of July Firework Cruise
For those seeking to celebrate the 4th of July on the water, this cruise is an ideal option. Guests can join for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration, complete with spectacular views of the fireworks over Estero Bay.
With pricing set at $99 for adults and $75 for kids, this experience offers a perfect opportunity for families. Call to Book 805-771-9337.
Adventure Tour
For speed enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, the Adventure Tour offers an exhilarating 45-minute high-speed journey across the bay. This exclusive experience is priced at $150 for up to six participants. It is a perfect choice for small groups looking for an adrenaline-filled outing.
Morro Bay Sub Sea Tours
Experience Morro Bay’s underwater world aboard a semi-submersible boat equipped with unique underwater windows. The tour includes above-water narration while searching for local wildlife, making it perfect for kids and families. This 45-minute adventure provides a captivating glimpse into the vibrant marine life beneath the surface, with prices starting at $20.
Top Scenic Boating Routes in Morro Bay
Navigating the right routes in Morro Bay can make your boat adventure unforgettable, with stunning sights and local wildlife. Here are some recommended routes and scenic stops for boaters:
Morro Rock
Circle around the iconic Morro Rock to enjoy dramatic coastal views. Then continue to a popular resting spot for sea lions and harbor seals basking in the sun. This easy-to-navigate route is a favorite among motorboats and electric boats. It offers an up-close view of Morro Bay’s famed landmarks and marine life.
Back Bay and Sandspit Beach
For a more serene experience, cruise through the quiet back bay area to explore the shallow waters near Sandspit Beach. Surrounded by sand dunes, this peaceful route is ideal for those seeking a relaxed trip with opportunities to observe wildlife.
The Estuary and Bird Sanctuary
The estuary and bird sanctuary area is perfect for nature enthusiasts. You can witness with frequent sightings of great blue herons, snowy egrets, and even peregrine falcons. The quieter waters in this section make it ideal for electric boats, allowing you to approach wildlife with minimal disturbance.
Harborfront Route
Cruise along the harborfront for views of Morro Bay’s charming waterfront and colorful boats. This route offers easy-going navigation and is perfect for taking in the town’s bustling harbor. It is a great choice for sightseeing and photography.
Each of these routes offers a unique perspective of Morro Bay. From tranquil natural spots to lively harbor views, making your boating experience one to remember.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Boating Adventure
Check Weather Conditions
Weather in Morro Bay can change rapidly, with fog often rolling in from the Pacific. Always check the forecast, as dense fog can limit visibility on the water. If fog is likely, try to start your journey a bit later in the morning when it’s typically clearer.
Know Your Rental Rules
Each rental company may have specific guidelines about where you’re allowed to go and which areas are off-limits. Adhering to these rules helps protect Morro Bay’s unique ecosystems and keeps you safe on your adventure. For Morro Bay boat rentals, these boundaries are essential for ensuring a safe and responsible trip.
Pack Essentials
Bring sunscreen, a waterproof bag, and a pair of binoculars for spotting wildlife. Pack snacks and water if you’re planning to spend a few hours on the water.
Respect the Wildlife
The bay is home to an abundance of wildlife, including harbor seals and protected bird species. Always keep your distance from animals, avoid loud noises, and try not to make sudden movements that could startle them. Observing the wildlife respectfully helps maintain the natural balance of the bay.
Follow Navigation Guidelines
Pay attention to navigation markers and buoys that guide you through safe routes. These markers help prevent boats from getting stuck in shallow areas or venturing into sensitive zones. Staying within these areas is especially important for motorized or electric boats, as it protects both your boat and the bay’s natural habitats.
Final Thoughts: Morro Bay Boat Rentals
Exploring Morro Bay by boat is a fantastic way to connect with the bay’s natural beauty, from scenic cruises to up-close encounters with local wildlife.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day on the water or an exhilarating adventure surrounded by nature, Morro Bay offers a memorable experience for everyone.
For those who prefer a kayaking journey, check out my Kayaking Guide for additional insights to make the most of your Morro Bay exploration.
What’s Next? Explore More Adventures Around Morro Bay and the Coast
If your visit to Morro Bay, or other parts of California is part of a bigger road trip, here is more information to help you plan your adventure:
Discover the best things to do , and the perfect spot to eat in Morro Bay. If your travel dates fall into April, or October check out these local events like the Morro Bay Witches Paddle or the Morro Bay Kite Festival. Also, make sure to visit the the stunning Morro Bay State Park.
Take a short drive to Cambria to explore its charm. From holiday magic at the Cambria Christmas Market to the unique experiences that make this neighboring town a must-visit for everyone. No trip to Cambria is complete without exploring its dynamic dining scene—there’s something delicious for every taste! Consider exploring the camping options near Cambria if you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature.
If you’re heading further north, dive into the natural beauty of Point Reyes with iconic trails that are not to be missed.