What better way to explore and embrace the energy of coastal Monterey, than from the deck of a ship? From Feb 28 – Mar 19, tour or even set sail on the visiting Lady Washington and Hawaiian Chieftain ships. Enjoy family-oriented vessel tours, adventure sails and battle sails, all located at the iconic Fisherman’s Wharf. Details about all things nautical below.
MEET THE LADY WASHINGTON
From Feb 28 to March 19, you won’t be the only one visiting the coast of Monterey! Lady Washington, the official tall ship of Washington State, and her companion vessel the Hawaiian Chieftain will both be docked at Fisherman’s Wharf (Dock #1 to be exact). Vessel tours are open to the public– visitors are just asked to donate $5 per person. Tour times vary, but you can find the full schedule of dates and times here.
YOU MENTIONED SAILING?
Yep! Not only can visitors peruse the visiting ships, but you can also sign up to go on adventure and battle sails. Battle sails are unfortunately sold out at this time. But, don’t get upset just yet! There’s still room on a few of the adventure sails. What’s an adventure sail? Expect a sea shanty (sailor work song), breathtaking views of Monterey and meet & greets with the modern-day crew. Remaining adventure sails are on Sunday, Mar 3 (2 p.m.) and Sunday, Mar 10 (10 a.m.). Tickets are $65 for adults and $55 for senior citizens, military, students and children. Spots are selling fast, so don’t wait much longer to reserve yours!
I’M IN MONTEREY AFTER MARCH 19…
Fortunately, Monterey is also home to a wide variety of ships available for cruising year round. So if you’re not in town for the Lady Washington, or if all tickets are sold out, still pay Fisherman’s Wharf a visit. With a quick stroll down the dock you’ll come across all sorts of fishing, whale watching and sailing tours. If you’re interested in sport fishing, stop by J & M Sport Fishing at 66 Fisherman’s Wharf. They specialize in (surprise) sport fishing trips featuring species like salmon, rock cod and Dungeness crab. Want to see some whales? Companies like Monterey Bay Whale Watch and Discovery Whale Watch offer daily whale watch trips, filled with educational tidbits and (hopefully) lots of whale sightings. From Fisherman’s Wharf you can also enjoy Glass Bottom Boat Tours and Monterey Bay Sailing lessons.
HOTEL NEAR FISHERMAN’S WHARF
Whether you decide to take a tour of Lady Washington or set sail on a whale watching tour, you’ll want to stay a night or two in Monterey! And an intimate Monterey boutique hotel like DeAnza Inn is the perfect choice. This property is conveniently located near many Monterey attractions, including Fisherman’s Wharf, and offers spacious rooms complete with incomparable amenities.
Get the most out of your stay in Monterey with a ship tour or two! Purchase your tickets to an adventure sail before they sell out and make sure to book your stay in the nearby DeAnza Inn.
WHERE TO STAY
DeAnza Inn
An ideal couples retreat, with spacious bedrooms and a convenient location near all Monterey Peninsula’s major attractions. 2141 North Fremont Street, Monterey, CA 993940. 800.858.8775
http://deanzainn.com/