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Imagine being far out at sea, and suddenly there is a huge crash, and a 40-ton blue whale breaches right in front of you with a huge splash. This is not an uncommon experience on a local whale-watching trip, and it is one you will not forget.

The Boston area has a strong historic connection with whaling. In the 19th century, the town of New Bedford was the biggest whaling port in the world. At one time, 329 sailing ships called New Bedford home. As a result, the town became one of the wealthiest towns in the country. Herman Melville shipped out aboard the whale ship Acushnet in 1841. This was the inspiration for his book, "Moby-Dick.”.

Today, the Boston area is one of the top ten whale-watching spots in the world. On a local whale-watching trip, you’ll head out roughly 25 miles off the coast to Stellwagen Bank, one of the most productive marine areas. A typical trip takes about 3.5–4 hours. Many boats have professional naturalists on board, and sightings are often guaranteed. Light snacks and a cash bar are generally available.

Whale-watching charters typically run from April to October. In the summer months, a jacket, sweater, or hoodie is recommended. In April and October, take a winter coat, a hat, and maybe gloves. Don’t forget a camera or smartphone, sunscreen, sunglasses, and possibly binoculars.

Whale Watch boats are generally wheelchair accessible.  For example, the New England Aquarium whale watch boats The AuroraAsteria, and Cetacea Whale Watch boats offer wheelchair access to the main deck, including the exterior bow, stern, gallery, and a wheelchair-accessible restroom at the rear of the main deck.

 

 

 

Whale Watching Tours in Boston


Whale-watching Catamaran Cruise from $79
Boston
•Excellent reviews(4.5) •Wheelchair accessible •Strollers OK •Public Transportation •Best seller
On this ocean adventure, you’ll board a high-speed catamaran and head out into New England waters to spot some of the many resident whales. A professional naturalist will be your guide, and they’ll teach you about the different species you could see, like the humpback, finback, minke and pilot whales or even the endangered right whale. You’ll reach the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary where yo ...

 

 

What to take with you on a Whale Watch Tour

 

When preparing for a whale watch, here are some essentials to bring along:

Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.Comfortable Shoes: Decks can get wet from ocean spray, so wear comfortable, non-slip footwear. High-heel shoes can be a hazard on the metal deck and ladders on the boat.

Layered Clothing: Even on warm days, it can get chilly out on the water due to wind and sea spray. Bring layers that you can easily add or remove.

Water and Snacks: Stay hydrated and bring light snacks to keep your energy up during the trip.

Identification: Carry identification and any necessary tickets or reservations for the whale watch.

Cash: There is generally a small counter where you can buy snacks and beverages, so bring some cash for any additional purchases or tips.

Camera or smartphone: Capture the moments when you spot whales breaching or swimming nearby. Make sure your camera is charged and has enough memory.

Patience: Whale watching is a natural experience, and sightings are not guaranteed. Enjoy the journey and the marine environment around you, and I hope to see some whales.

Other helpful items to take on a whalewatch cruise are:

Binoculars: These will help you get a closer look at whales that might be further away from the boat.

Motion Sickness Medication: If you're prone to seasickness, consider taking medication beforehand to ensure you enjoy the trip comfortably.

 

 

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•Good reviews(3.7) •Wheelchair accessible •Strollers OK •Best seller
This experience will allow you to enjoy a three-course dinner while cruising along the Boston Harbor. As you dine, you’ll be serenaded with live music while admiring iconic sights such as Georges Island, Boston Light, the Charlestown Navy Yard, Castle Island and Little Brewster Island, among others. After you eat, you’ll have the chance to head outside to the observation deck and secure panora ...
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Boston Harbor Sailing Experience from $37
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1.5-Hour Boston Harbor Cruise from $40
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•Very good reviews(4.3) •Strollers OK •Public Transportation •Best seller
On this 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise, you’ll explore landmarks around Boston Harbor. You’ll board a classic 1920s-style yacht called Northern Lights. You’ll then cruise around Boston Harbor, enjoying views of the Boston skyline and iconic landmarks. You’ll sail past attractions such as the Old North Church, Bunker Hill Monument, USS Cassin Young, the USS Constitution, and the Boston Harbor Isla ...
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•Excellent reviews(4.5) •Strollers OK •Public Transportation •Best seller
During this cruise, you will leave Boston Harbor behind and enjoy a ride to Fort Independence, located on Castle Island. Once you arrive at the shore, you will board the boat and head off to enjoy a relaxing sunset. As you go along, you will be able to take in the iconic views of Boston's waterfront. You will see the Mystic Tobin Bridge, the Customs House Tower, the Leonard Zakim Bridge and ot ...
Harbor Cruise Tour from $55
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•Exceptional reviews(4.7) •Public Transportation •Best seller
On this sailing tour, you will have the opportunity to cruise aboard a schooner that will take you to explore Boston harbor and admire the city from the water. You will be able to choose between sailing for 90 minutes on the Liberty Star or two hours on the Liberty Clipper, with alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages available for purchase on board. This tour will feature informative commentary ...
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•Exceptional reviews(4.7) •Public Transportation •Best seller
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•Exceptional reviews(4.9) •Wheelchair accessible •Public Transportation •Best seller
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•Exceptional reviews(4.7) •Strollers OK •Public Transportation •Best seller
On this two-hour, Boston Harbor Cruise, you’ll enjoy sightseeing and a three-course brunch. You’ll set sail from Boston Harbor aboard the classic 1920s-style yacht Northern Lights. You’ll view historic landmarks from the cruise such as Castle and Deer Island, Spectacle Island, Long Island, Lovells Island, Georges Island, Independence Fort, Bunker Hill Monument, USS Cassin Young, USS Constituti ...

 

 

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