San Diego SEAL Amphibious Tour

Drive the city, then splash into the bay

⏱ About 90 minutes👤 All ages$$

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.