Quick Details
Limited-time Early Bird Prices
Saturday (Most Popular)
October 3
Adult
Age 13+
$ 210.94
Child
Age 8 - 12
$ 210.94
Sunday (Best Value)
October 4
Adult
Age 13+
$ 189.74
Child
Age 8 - 12
$ 189.74
Both days feature the full Pacific Airshow event schedule for that day.
Pacific Airshow Safari
Leave the crowds and traffic behind and experience the Pacific Airshow Huntington Beach from the water aboard our spacious power catamaran. Enjoy incredible offshore views of world-class aerial performances, live commentary from aviation expert Matt “Shorty” Stumpf, a catered breakfast, and a full day on the beautiful Southern California coast.
This world-class airshow was voted Top 3 Best Air Shows by USA Today in 2021 and 2024.
Estimated Airshow Itinerary
This itinerary is an estimate. Travel time and overall cruise duration may vary depending on wildlife viewing and other factors out of our control such as airshow timing, wind and sea surface conditions.
• 8:00 am – Depart Dana Point Harbor
• 10:30 to 11:00 am – Arrive at Huntington Beach; Pacific Airshow begins
• 4:30 pm – Pacific Airshow ends; depart Huntington Beach
• 7:00 to 7:30 pm – Return time is airshow dependent. This is an estimated arrival time back to Dana Point Harbor
Airshow Safar FAQ
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Both Saturday and Sunday Airshow Safaris experience the full Pacific Airshow event schedule for their respective day. Sunday pricing reflects typical booking demand patterns and does not indicate a reduced airshow experience. Performer participation and schedules are determined by Pacific Airshow organizers and participating performers and are subject to change without notice. Performances and schedules may vary by event day.
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Our Pacific Airshow Safari departs from Dana Point Harbor and travels north along the Orange County coastline toward Huntington Beach, where we position offshore for excellent views of the Pacific Airshow performances.
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For safety, the U.S. Coast Guard establishes designated viewing and safety zones offshore during Pacific Airshow performances. Our captain positions the vessel within approved spectator areas that provide excellent views while complying with all Coast Guard safety requirements.
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Airshow performer lineups are controlled entirely by Pacific Airshow organizers and are subject to change without notice due to weather, safety considerations, mechhttps://fareharbor.com/dolphinsafari/dashboard/items/anical issues, scheduling conflicts, government restrictions, or other factors outside our control. The cruise itself operates as scheduled even if the airshow lineup changes.
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This is an all-day cruise on the water, with no disembarking on land until we return to the dock. Due to this extended duration at sea, the minimum age is 8 years old.
Parents, please note this is a very long day on the water, and younger children may become tired during the cruise. We recommend bringing snacks, quiet activities, and any comfort items your child may want throughout the day.
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Yes, Hoku Nai’a has 2 bathrooms onboard.
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Yes. On the first deck, there are bench seats with surfboard tables. On the second deck, there are lightly-padded bench seats. Guests are welcome to move around throughout the cruise to enjoy different viewing angles of both the airshow and coastline.
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No. To help keep pricing lower and simplify the onboard experience, lunch is not included for 2026 Airshow Safari cruises.
Guests are welcome to bring their own lunch and snacks aboard. To help keep seating and table areas comfortable for all guests, please bring lunches and snacks in personal, compact soft-sided bags.
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Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted. However, guests may bring their own non-alcoholic beverages.
Beer, wine, hard seltzers, soft drinks, and water are available for purchase onboard.
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No. This is primarily an airshow viewing cruise, not a dedicated whale watching safari. Dolphins, whales, sea lions, and other marine wildlife are frequently seen along the Orange County coastline, and wildlife sightings are always a possibility while en route to and from the airshow.
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Approximately 11 hours long. This includes travel time between Dana Point and Huntington Beach, as well as several hours positioned offshore for the airshow performances. Actual duration may vary slightly depending on wildlife viewing and other factors out of our control, such as wind and sea surface conditions.
Pacific Airshow Safari Details
Experience the 10th annual Pacific Airshow from an entirely different perspective aboard a spacious catamaran departing from Dana Point Harbor. Skip the crowded beaches and enjoy unobstructed views as world-class pilots perform high-speed maneuvers directly over the Pacific Ocean and Huntington Beach.
One of the most popular features of our Airshow Safari is live onboard commentary from aviation expert Matt “Shorty” Stumpf. Throughout the day, he’ll share fascinating insight, behind-the-scenes knowledge, and entertaining commentary about the aircraft and performances, helping guests appreciate the skill and precision of the pilots overhead.
This all-day adventure combines the excitement of the airshow with the beauty of Southern California’s coastline. Relax with panoramic views and the unique atmosphere of watching the performances from the water.
Our catamaran offers a comfortable platform for the day, with onboard restrooms, shaded areas, and plenty of room to move about and enjoy different viewing angles throughout the cruise. Beer, wine, soft drinks, and water are available for purchase onboard.
While this is primarily an airshow cruise, marine wildlife sightings are always possible along the Orange County coastline. Dolphins, sea lions, and even whales are sometimes spotted during the journey between Dana Point and Huntington Beach.
Whether you are a longtime aviation enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable Southern California experience, our Airshow Safari offers an unforgettable day on the ocean unlike anything you can experience from shore.
Pacific Airshow Special Guest Narrator
Considered the voice of youth in aviation, Matt Stumpf is one of the leading experts in aviation history and aerobatics. He is also a fan-favorite on our Airshow Safari!
Since 2016 “Shorty” has had the opportunity to be the voice of aviation throughout Southern California and the west coast at events such as the Riverside Airshow, March Field Air and Space Expo, The Planes of Fame Air Show, Apple Valley Airshow, and many more. Recently he was invited to narrate the National Championship Air Races and Air Show in Reno, Nevada, for the Jet and Unlimited classes, for NBC Sports.
Matt takes a unique approach to narrating the amazing aerobatics on display at the Pacific Airshow. You’ll learn insider stories about the pilots and planes and enjoy the history of the airshow told through Matt’s high energy, often comedic, commentary.
Book your Huntington Beach Airshow tickets with Capt. Dave’s today!
Breakfast Included
Included in the price of your Pacific Airshow cruise is a hearty breakfast burrito made with an extra-large tortilla and filled with hash browns, eggs, cheese, and bacon. The vegetarian option is made without bacon. Salsa is served on the side. Also included is mixed seasonal fresh fruit, coffee, and orange juice.
Menu items are subject to change based on availability and seasonality.
Enjoy a Comfortable & Relaxing Airshow Viewing
Hoku Nai’a is our stable, double-deck power catamaran. This 65-foot vessel will have less than 50% of its capacity for the airshow cruise.
Her spacious observation deck is perfect for viewing the Pacific Airshow in Huntington Beach. For your comfort, there are lightly-padded cushions adorned with bespoke marine wildlife designs on the bench seats. The upper deck is partly covered for sun protection. There is also a bar with water, soft drinks, beer, wine, and hard seltzers available to purchase.
On the first floor, the main deck is fully enclosed and large windows on both sides provide plenty of viewing angles on our Pacific Airshow cruise. Bench seats with surfboard tables and a lounge area are perfect for those wanting to enjoy refreshments.
There are two restrooms on the main deck.
Beautifully appointed with upscale décor throughout the vessel that celebrates Dana Point’s famous surfing culture and recognition as the Dolphin and Whale Watching Capital of the World®.
Hoku Nai’a does not have underwater viewing pods.
Hoku Nai’a Virtual Tour
For an “auto tour” video walk-through, click on the play button in the lower left corner. It may take a couple of minutes to show.
Disclaimer
As with any live outdoor event, performer participation and schedules are subject to change, and weather or marine conditions may affect visibility throughout the day. Airshow performers and participation are determined by Pacific Airshow organizers and participating performers and are beyond Captain Dave’s control. Even so, guests enjoy a memorable full-day ocean adventure featuring a warm breakfast, opportunities to view marine wildlife along the coast, and a unique offshore perspective of the Pacific Airshow.
For added flexibility and peace of mind, we recommend adding Trip Protection at checkout.
What Guests Say About The Pacific Airshow Cruise
We had a great time on their Air Show Whale Watch Safari. They had an air show announcer along so it was like having a private air show just for is. And our captain, Neal, was an absolute professional and maneuvered our boat so we were under a lot of the best stuff. I’ve been to a ton of air shows and have never seen one from underneath the acts performing directly above me. A completely new view point. If you’re an aviation buff, I cannot recommend these guys highly enough. Easily the best way to see the Huntington Beach airshow. If I could give higher than five stars I would. They even gave me a birthday button!
– Michael Ganschow-Green - Google
I joined on board with Capt. Dave's for the Huntington Beach Air show adventure. It was fabulous! My first ever air show, and I loved approaching and watching it from the boat. Included was a beautiful fruit platter with berries and cantaloupes for morning treat, and burgers for lunch ( a vegetarian burger for me), chips and a drink. All kinds of beverages including beer and wine, and snacks, were on board for sale. The catering crew was amazing. As was Capt. Dave's crew of Capt. Neal, First Mate Stacey, and all around Happy deckhand, Todd. Lots of good information from them about marine life and geography. We even motored with a megapod of breaching, playful common dolphins, delighting all on board. Of course additional amazment came with the HB airshow. Our boat anchored with many others offshore giving us a perfect seat for viewing the flights during the three hours of adrenaline pulsing, jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring, aerial maneuvers. A big bonus, on board was Matthew, introducing each plane, agency, pilots, maneuvers, history, etc. I'm sure no private boat of beach seat had such a comprehensive narrative. It was a thrilling day!
– Dawn G - Tripadvisor
A spectacular trip to the Great Pacific Air Show. From start to finish, a great experience with the team. Neal made sure the boat stayed in good position so we could get great shots of the planes. Matt, airshow announcer extraordinaire kept us apprised of the planes coming, what to look for and supplied us with constant information. Not to mention his playlists were great!!! Josh made sure we we were all taken care of. I am all ready to sign up for next year!!! Well done folks!!!
– Jay Spring - Google
We booked a trip on Captain Dave’s to see the Pacific Airshow from the ocean rather than the beach. Having done this for a couple of years now, I have to say it’s the only way to see it. I’ll never watch the Pacific Airshow from the beach again! Captain Dave’s were fantastic hosts as always. We were on the maiden voyage of their newest boat, the Hoku Nai’a. It’s a much wider boat that rides much more calmly on the sea. This time they included food, which was to notch. Shout out to their caterers. Yum! In all a fantastic experience that I will recommend to anyone who asks. Bravo Captain Dave’s!
– MichaelTGG - Tripadvisor
I went on the Pacific Air Show cruise yesterday and had a wonderful time! The Lilly is a very comfortable boat and the crew was outstanding! All were exceptionally helpful and went above and beyond to provide a safe and enjoyable experience! Captain Neal was very engaging as he explained necessary boat protocol and safety with the appropriate amount of seriousness and humor! He also shared interesting facts about marine life and local points of interest! It was clear he is very knowledgeable! Joshua was always there with a smile if you needed assistance with anything and made sure to answer all questions. We had a special guest, Matt, a professional spokesperson/announcer for the air show. His knowledge, direction, and expertise was impressive and entertaining! All in all it was spectacular! I will be booking a dolphin/whale watching cruise with Capt. Dave’s in the near future!
– Peggy Cohen - Google
The whole trip was great. the crew very knowledgeable, the food was even better than some restaurants, the air show was awesome, getting to see the thunderbirds was the best part of the airshow. We also got to see some dolphins.
– lauraisanape - Tripadvisor
What an awesome day! The Pacific Air Show and seeing Blue Whales was the best! All of the crew and caterers did a wonderful job! We loved everything! Thank you!
– Julie Kasper - Google
Went for Pacific Airshow cruise 2023 at Huntington Beach. Staff was amazing. Commentator was as good as it gets. Saw a couple of blue whales on the way back. Highly recommend this.
– Dorian Hiebert - Google