The San Diego SEAL tour is a narrated ride in an amphibious vehicle that starts on the streets of the city and then drives into the water for a harbor cruise. It runs about ninety minutes and leaves from Seaport Village or the Embarcadero. The vehicles are US Coast Guard approved and built to marine standards, and the route passes Point Loma's hillside mansions, North Island Naval Air Station, the Point Loma submarine base, Shelter Island and the Embarcadero. Sea lions and brown pelicans are common sightings. It is novelty and sightseeing in one, and a hit with families.
The tour begins on land, driving past historic streets before the vehicle enters San Diego Bay and continues as a harbor cruise. The sights include the Marine Mammal Training Center, Scripps Institution of Oceanography, Shelter Island, the Embarcadero and San Diego International Airport, along with the naval installations that define the bay. The amphibious Hydra-Terra vehicles carry marine radios and the required safety equipment, and the narration explains what you are passing.
Reservations are required. Arrive thirty minutes early, because late check-in may forfeit your reservation, and note that tickets are non-refundable, though you can reschedule by phone at least 24 hours ahead. Departures are from Seaport Village at 825 West Harbor Drive or the Embarcadero at 1004 North Harbor Drive, so check which point your booking uses. An adult ticket also comes with free self-guided walking tours and free admission to several local museums, according to the operator.
Because it combines a bus tour and a boat trip, the SEAL tour is an efficient first-day orientation, and children usually love the splashdown. Bring a jacket, sunscreen and sunglasses, since the open sections can be breezy. Pair it with the USS Midway Museum, the Maritime Museum or Seaport Village. If you want a longer cruise, the harbor sightseeing and whale-watching trips go farther on the water, while this tour is best when you want a quick, memorable overview.
What to expect
The experience
A narrated tour in an amphibious vehicle, with a land section through the city followed by a harbor cruise in San Diego Bay.
Best time
Clear daytime departures; the open sections can be breezy in the morning.
How long
About ninety minutes.
Tips
Reserve ahead, arrive thirty minutes early, and check whether your tour leaves from Seaport Village or the Embarcadero. Tickets are non-refundable but can be rescheduled 24 hours ahead.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families and first-time visitors who want a fun overview of the city and bay.
- Families
- Children love the splashdown; a good all-ages outing.
- Couples
- A light, novel way to see the harbor, with sunset-colored views on later tours.
- Pair with
- The USS Midway Museum, Seaport Village and the Maritime Museum are near the departure points.
- Time needed
- About two hours including check-in.
Good questions
How long is the tour?+
About ninety minutes.
Where does it depart?+
From Seaport Village at 825 West Harbor Drive or the Embarcadero at 1004 North Harbor Drive.
What will I see?+
Point Loma's hillside mansions, North Island Naval Air Station, the submarine base, Shelter Island and the Embarcadero, with sea lions and pelicans often visible.
Do I need a reservation?+
Yes, and you should arrive thirty minutes early.
Can I change my booking?+
You can reschedule by phone at least 24 hours ahead; reservation tickets are non-refundable.
