The Best Whale Watching In Massachusetts In 2024

If you’re seeking an unforgettable marine adventure along the Massachusetts coast, you’re in for a treat! As a Boston native and a seasoned traveler, I’ve experienced my fair share of whale watching in Massachusetts. Let me guide you through the top whale watching tours in Massachusetts for 2024.

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Looking For The Best Whale Watching In Massachusetts?

You’ve come to the right place! I’ve lived in Massachusetts my entire life. Whale watching here is an incredible experience for people of all ages. It’s one of the things that really makes Boston worth visiting!

As a mom with two kids and a big fan of exploring, I really love the beauty of the ocean near us. We’ve gone on tons of adventures together, and each one has been super memorable and special to us.

There’s really nothing quite like seeing gigantic sea creatures up close and personal, while feeling the sun on your skin and the salty breeze on your face. To experience it yourself, all you have to do is book one of these amazing whale watching tours in Massachusetts and enjoy!

Don’t have time to read this whole article?

Book this Boston Whale Watching tour now. You are guaranteed to see whales or you get a free ticket!

Why Go Whale Watching In Massachusetts?

Massachusetts is one of the absolute best places to go whale watching. We’re wicked close to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. That’s a stretch of open water at the mouth of Massachusetts Bay. It’s a rich feeding ground for tons of wildlife – whales, dolphins, sharks, seals, and more.

Along with the wide variety of marine life you can see, being on the ocean is incredible. Whale watching season in Massachusetts generally runs from May to October, which is when New England has its best weather.

Yes, it’s typically cooler on the water than on land, so you should bring a sweatshirt no matter when you go. But, the sun is shining, the breeze is salty, and the calm you get from seeing nothing but the ocean in every direction is unlike anything else.

Marine Life You See While Whale Watching In Massachusetts

By far the most common species of whale you see while whale watching in Massachusetts is the Humpback Whale. But you can also see many other types of marine life. Some of them are rare, but all of the following marine animals have been sighted off the coast of Massachusetts.

• Humpback Whales
• Fin Whales
• North Atlantic Right Whales
• Sei Whales
• Minke Whales
• Pilot Whales
• Atlantic White-Sided Dolphins
• Common Dolphins
• Harbor Porpoises
• Harbor Seals
• Gray Seals
• Basking Sharks
• Blue Sharks
• Great White Sharks
• Ocean Sunfishs
• Bluefin Tuna
• Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtles
• Loggerhead Sea Turtles
• Leatherback Turtles

My Top 3 Picks For Best Whale Watching In Massachusetts

#1 Top Pick

Boston Whale Watch Tour

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

• New England Aquarium Guide
• Guaranteed Sightings
• Close To Public Transportation

BOOK IT

#2 Pick

Cape Ann Whale Watch Tour

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

• Naturalist Guide
• Morning or Afternoon
• Out of Gloucester

BOOK IT

#3 Pick

7 Seas Whale Watch Tour

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

• Guided Commentary
• Morning or Afternoon
• Out of Gloucester

BOOK IT

#1. New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise

Rating: 4 and 1/2 Stars | Tour Length: 3 and 1/2 hours | Check Rates And Availability

First up on my list is this whale watching cruise out of Boston. You have a New England Aquarium Naturalist as your guide, which really makes this extra special.

The boat you take is actually a high speed catamaran, so you get to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary quickly. The amount of wildlife you can see at the Sanctuary is incredible.

This whale watching tour is out of Boston, so it’s perfect for anyone who’s already in the city, or close by. It’s close to public transportation too, making it very convenient to hop on board.

#2. Cape Ann Whale Watch

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 4 hours | Check Rates And Availability

Cape Ann Whale Watch in Gloucester (pronounced gloss-tah) is easily one of the best whale watching companies ever. They’ve been around for over 45 years, providing incredible whale watch experiences to people of all ages.

They have a 98% success rate of seeing whales. But, if you happen to go on the rare day that you do not see whales, your entire party can come again, FREE FOR LIFE until you do. 

Their boat, the “Hurricane II” is 115 feet long and has plenty of room for whale watching. It’s got over 400 feet of space along the railings of the upper and lower observation decks. Inside, there’s a cozy cabin that’s heated and furnished, where you can grab some hot meals, snacks, and cold drinks (including alcoholic ones) from the galley.

When you take this whale watching tour with Cape Ann Whale Watch, you get a naturalist guide explaining everything you’re seeing. You can see dozens of different marine animals, as they also take you to the Stellwagen Sanctuary. They go wherever the whales are, so you might find yourself having a great time anywhere along the coast of Massachusetts.

#3. 7 Seas Whale Watch

Rating: 5 Stars | Tour Length: 4 hours | Check Rates And Availability

Another incredible company for whale watching in Massachusetts is 7 Seas Whale Watch, also out of Gloucester. They proudly boast 4 generations of captains navigating the waters of Stellwagen Bank and Massachusetts Bay.

Their boat, “The Privateer IV”, has space for 300 people but they choose to max out at 149 instead. This gives you plenty of room on board, ensuring you get a great view of the whales and other marine life.

A whale watch with 7 Seas is a fantastic option for you, regardless of age or how many people are in your group. They have a galley stocked with sandwiches, snacks, drinks, and a full bar. And the naturalist onboard will tell you lots of interesting details about everything you’re seeing while out on the ocean.

When Is The Best Time For Whale Watching In Massachusetts?

Whale watching in Massachusetts generally runs from May – October. Some companies may take you out a bit outside those months. But by far the best time to go whale watching in Massachusetts is during the summer.

We’ve always had incredible luck in August, so that’s when we tend to go. The weather is fantastic, the seas are usually not too rough, and we have a wonderful time.

I personally recommend going between June and September for the best experience.

Is Whale Watching In Massachusetts Good For Kids?

Whale watching is absolutely fantastic for kids! As a mom myself, I can assure you that whale watching is an adventure the whole family can enjoy.

First off, kids are naturally curious, and there’s nothing quite like the excitement of spotting a massive whale breaching the surface of the water right before their eyes.

Second, whale watching is a great way for kids to connect with nature and learn about the importance of protecting our oceans and the creatures that call them home. By seeing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat, kids gain a greater appreciation for the beauty and diversity of marine life, and they’re more likely to become passionate advocates for conservation.

And my favorite reason, whale watching is simply a wonderful way to spend time together as a family. You can create lifelong memories together while having an absolutely incredible time out on the ocean.

Tips For Whale Watching In Massachusetts

• Bring a sweater or jacket. It can be 10-15 degrees F cooler on the water than on land. Not to mention the breeze while the boat is cruising! So even if it’s warm and sunny, bring some sort of outer layer with you.
• Remember sun protection. Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The sun can be extremely strong on the water, and you’re in it for potentially 4 hours or more. Make sure you protect your head, skin, and face from the sun!
• Bring a camera. Whether you use your phone or want to bring a real camera, make sure you’re ready. You have the potential to see incredible marine life up close and personal. You’ll be able to get amazing shots as long as you’re prepared. This is my favorite camera for taking great shots.
• Bring cash. Most boats have a galley onboard where you can buy snacks and drinks. You also need some cash for tipping at the end of your cruise.
• Remember seasickness medication. If you are prone to seasickness, you’re going to want to bring some motion sickness medication with you, and even take some before you get on the boat. Sea Bands are also an absolute lifesaver for my daughter and husband. Keep an eye on the weather and your emails in case the company sends an inclement weather or rough seas alert.
• Arrive early. Generally speaking, if you show up late not only will the boat not wait for you, but you won’t get your money back either. Be respectful and show up 15 minutes early to make sure your tour starts smoothly.
• Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes. You’re going to be on a boat, so by default it can be slippery. Make sure to wear shoes that allow you to safely walk around the boat.
• Plan for 4 hours. Typically you spend around an hour with the whales once you find them. Add in the travel time and you’re looking at somewhere between 3-4 hours round trip. So take that into consideration when planning other activities in your day.

So, Is Whale Watching In Massachusetts Worth It?

Whale watching in Massachusetts is definitely worth it! With its stunning coastline and diverse marine life, Massachusetts offers some of the best whale watching opportunities in the world.

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines the thrill of wildlife encounters, the beauty of nature, and the rich history of Massachusetts, then whale watching in this coastal paradise is the perfect choice for you.

And let’s not forget about the educational aspect of whale watching. Knowledgeable guides onboard share fascinating facts about whale behavior, migration patterns, and conservation efforts.

Every trip is a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the importance of protecting these incredible animals and their ocean habitat for future generations.

I love going on whale watches, my kids love whale watching, and I’m confident you will too.

STILL CAN’T DECIDE?

I suggest this Boston Whale Watching cruise.

You are guaranteed to see whales or you get a free ticket!