A Whale of a Package

Each winter, thousands of California Gray Whales leave the cold Arctic Seas and follow the coastline to the warm, calm waters of Southern California and Baja. This 5,000-mile migration brings much of the pod past Dana Point, where the whales can be easily seen and photographed. Sometimes called the Whale Capital of the West, scientists believe that Dana Point may possibly serve as a reference "landmark" for the whales and is a famous gathering area, attracting not only marine mammals but marine biologists and whale lovers from around the world. In celebration of the whale's annual journey, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel offers a whale watching package January 16 through April 30, 2008.

The Whale of a Package is $595 for ocean view or $450 for garden/pool view accommodations. The package includes:
* One night's accommodations
* A 2 ½-hour Whale and Dolphin Safari on a high tech sailing catamaran
* Full American breakfast for two in the ocean front Restaurant 162'
* Resort fee and valet parking

The Whale and Dolphin Safari is provided by Captain Dave's, located 5 minutes from the resort at Dana Point Harbor. The Safari is for two guests; additional guests are $45 each.  Advanced reservations are required.  Guests may want to plan to visit the area during the annual Festival of Whales held each March in nearby Dana Point Harbor.  All ages will enjoy the street fair atmosphere with live music, arts and crafts, hands-on activities and expert lectures.  The Ocean Institute and Doheny State Beach Interpretive Center are always open for a fun educational experience and Catalina Island offers whale-themed activities that can be enjoyed during the day trip included in the package.

The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel prides itself on gracious hospitality and personal service throughout the resort, but harried travelers and vacationers desiring added value are guaranteed extra pampering while staying on The Ritz-Carlton Club. Guests often say the Club experience is like coming home to family.  The personal relationships between the guest and Club staff are truly nurtured, with individual preferences provided and special occasions honored.  Travelers can also enjoy one of the resort's specialty room such as a direct ocean view suite.  The ocean view suite offers a separate bedroom and living room, as well as a dining area that seats up to six people. Guests who choose an ocean view suite enjoy the extra amenity of waking to the sounds of the surf crashing below and fresh ocean breezes flowing from the balcony.

The mild California climate invites guests to enjoy a variety of activities at the resort and surrounding area. Located on the property are four tennis courts with a full-time teaching professional; two heated swimming pools; two outdoor whirlpools and an ocean-front Fitness Center. Adjacent to the hotel is an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr. and two-miles of sandy beach. 

Consistently ranked among the best resorts in the world, The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel is located halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego and sits on a 150-foot bluff with panoramic white-water views of the Pacific Ocean and two-miles of sandy beach.  For more information or reservations call 800-241-3333, the hotel directly at 949-240-2000, a travel professional or visit The Ritz-Carlton Web site at www.ritzcarlton.com. # # #


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