SIGHTSEEING

There are many ways to see the city of San Diego. If you want to skip the trolleys and the tour buses, another fun way to take in the sights is a cruise. Taking to the water can give you a greater view of the city in a panoramic scene that you can't get on land. There are several companies that offer tours in San Diego, but they do tend to be popular, so if you plan on signing up to take one, be prepared to book ahead.

San Diego Sightseeing Tours Are for Everyone

The tours are billed for residents and tourists alike. After all, even if you've lived in the city your entire life, there's bound to be tidbits and history you didn't know about. Most sightseeing cruises are suitable for all ages, though little ones might not enjoy the longer tours that go deep into the city's history. 

Enjoy a Narrated Tour of San Diego

The sightseeing tours are quite in-depth. For example, Flagship's 2-hour tour takes you along the north and south harbors, where you'll learn about 55 sights. You can take in the skyline, which features stunning architecture and take a sail past some Navy ships, some of which even double as museums.

On a good day, you might even see some aquatic life, including seals and whales. Who knows, this might inspire you to sign up for another cruise --- this time to whale watch.

Things to Consider in a Sightseeing Cruise

When signing up for a cruise, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First, make sure you're aware of departure times. Typically, the staff wants participants onboard a few minutes before the scheduled departure. Follow directions from either the tour's website or the confirmation information you receive.

Bring a jacket or sweater to stay warm. Even if it's the most gorgeous day, you're likely to experience a chill as you cruise around the bay. Sunscreen is a must as well, and don't forget to bring a camera or binoculars to capture and see the sights.

Make sure you know the duration of the cruise and what's included --- for example, food and drink. Bring snacks if it's a longer tour, especially for children, provided it's allowed by the tour company. Most cruises last between one and two hours, depending on whether you opt to see the North Harbor, South Harbor, or both.