San Diego: SEAL City Tour By Amphibious Bus

Ride the amphibious bus on this 1h 40m city tour of San Diego. Sit back and enjoy the views as the bus carries you along the route.

Overview

The San Diego SEAL is a hybrid vehicle that works as both a bus and a boat, and the whole ride lasts 1 hour 40 minutes. You board on land, drive through the city streets, then the vehicle splashes into San Diego Bay and floats.

On the land leg, the guide points out the Embarcadero, San Diego International Airport, the USS Midway aircraft carrier, the tall ship Star of India and the old Police Headquarters, mixing commentary on landmarks with stories about the military's role in the city. Once in the water, the route glides past Navy ships, tugboats and fishing vessels, out toward Shelter Island. Along the way the guide shares tales of early sailors, and the bay's sea lions and seals often appear close enough to see clearly.

The tour suits anyone who wants a single outing that covers city sights and the harbor without changing vehicles. Departure times shift with the season and a reservation is required, so check the live booking page for current slots. There are two possible meeting points depending on the option selected, so confirm the exact location when booking.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at departure pointArrive at your selected meeting point, either of the two options, as departure times vary by season and a reservation is required.
2. Drive through city streetsThe amphibious vehicle winds through San Diego streets, passing the Embarcadero and San Diego International Airport while the guide explains the city's main landmarks.
3. See harbor landmarksThe land route takes in the USS Midway aircraft carrier, the old schooner Star of India and the old Police Headquarters, with commentary on the military's importance to San Diego.
4. Splash into the bayThe vehicle drives directly into San Diego Bay and floats, a moment the listing highlights as a core part of the experience.
5. Cruise the harborThe water route passes Navy ships, tugboats and fishing vessels, and continues past Shelter Island while the guide tells stories of early sailors.
6. Spot seals and wildlifeThe bay is home to seals and other wildlife, and the listing notes the seals that hang out in the harbor as a highlight of the cruise.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will help you get the most out of this tour, from what to wear to how the group feels on board.

• Bring a jacket. The listing recommends a jacket for this tour. Since part of the ride takes place on the open bay, it is sensible to have one with you.
• Travel light. Luggage and large bags are not allowed on board.
• Guides carry it. Reviewers consistently praise the guides and captains for being welcoming and knowledgeable.
• Wildlife sightings. Several travellers mention seeing sea lions up close, sometimes in large numbers.
• Unhurried pace. One reviewer noted the tour did not feel rushed, and the fixed route means you sit back rather than walk.
• Good photo chances. One reviewer mentioned great views during the ride, and the route passes Navy ships, the USS Midway and the harbor wildlife, so bring a camera.

Common issues. Some travellers report that engine noise made parts of the commentary hard to hear, so sitting closer to the guide may help. Departures from the Embarcadero are not wheelchair accessible, which is a real limit for some visitors. Tips for the guide are not included in the ticket price. Departure times vary by season, so the slot you want may not run year round.

Common Questions