Boston · BOSTON WHALE WATCHING
Humpbacks feed on Stellwagen Bank from spring into autumn, and the boats leave from Long Wharf, Gloucester and Plymouth. These 6 are compared on travel time to the whales, boat speed and the sightings guarantee.
Sail from Long Wharf to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary on a high-speed boat, with outdoor viewing decks and a warm, windowed cabin. New England Aquarium naturalists explain the whales and other wildlife you may see. Humpbacks, fin whales, minkes and dolphins are possible, but sightings are never guaranteed.
“Guides were well versed and so helpful and smart!!”
From 415 Main Street in Gloucester, Cape Ann Whale Watch takes you aboard the 115-foot Hurricane II for an approximately four-hour search for whales and dolphins. A naturalist explains the wildlife as you travel toward feeding grounds that can shift with the animals. Expect open viewing decks, a heated indoor cabin and food and drinks for purchase.
“Well run, great focus on safety. Parking onsite made things very easy. Excellent job by the crew finding a variety of whales to see.”
Leave Boston’s Long Wharf aboard a high-speed catamaran for a roughly three-and-a-half-hour whale watch at Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Watch from open decks, then warm up in the indoor cabin. A naturalist explains whale behavior, conservation, and tracking. Humpbacks, fin whales, minkes, dolphins, and seabirds may appear.
“It was amazing! The whales showed up and gave us a show! Truly a special experience! And the crew were amazing and informative! They were all invested in making sure the guests had a great safe experience!”
From Gloucester, 7 Seas Whale Watch takes you on a 3.5- to 4-hour cruise toward Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. A naturalist shares facts about whales and marine life while the captain and crew search for feeding animals. You can move around the spacious boat, watch from the open deck, and warm up inside. Departures run from mid-April to mid-October.
“Awesome trip with numerous whale sightings. Cindy gave so much info and did great at spotting the whales. I learned a lot! She is obviously passionate about them as was other crew members too....wear several layers and bring snacks if you wish. Good idea to reserve a spot during nice weather or busy season.”
From Town Wharf in Plymouth, Captain John Boats runs a four-hour cruise toward Cape Cod Bay and Stellwagen Bank. A naturalist explains the whales and marine life, while the crew searches for humpback, finback, pilot, minke, and endangered right whales. Bring warm layers and allow an hour for ticketing and boarding. Food is available aboard; alcoholic drinks cost extra.
“Great experience. Friendly staff and saw whales up close!”
From Macmillan Wharf, Captain John Boats runs a 3.5- to 4-hour whale watch in Cape Cod Bay and Stellwagen Bank. An onboard naturalist helps you identify humpback, finback, minke and, less often, endangered right whales. You can watch from open decks or a cabin, with food and drinks for cash purchase. Guides including Lindsay have been praised for lively, family-friendly explanations.
“I liked the amount of whales we saw. Just fabulous viewings. Also enjoyed the explanation and education about whales. A+”
Pick a trail, a boat or a town up the coast.
