Boston Whale Watching Cruise
About this activity
Smartphone tickets accepted
Experience Highlights
On this catamaran excursion you will set sail from Boston to the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary for a whale watching experience. This is a protected area inhabited by cetaceans such as humpback whales, fin whales and Atlantic dolphins.
Throughout the activity, which lasts approximately 4 hours, you will be able to enjoy the explanations of an expert guide from the New England Aquarium. In addition, if you wish, inside the catamaran you will find a small bar where you can buy a drink or a snack.
- Get a close-up look at whales and dolphins at the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary.
- Learn about the characteristics of each animal with the explanations of an expert guide.
- Sail the Atlantic Ocean aboard a fast catamaran.
What’s included
- Whale watching cruise
- Expert guide
Step by Step
This whale watching cruise departs from Boston harbour and heads to the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. This protected area was established in 1992 and is named after a shallow sandbank. The tour lasts about 4 hours and takes place on a fast catamaran. On board you will meet an expert guide who will explain the highlights of the oceanic fauna:
- Right whale - A dark-bodied specimen with white spots on the belly. Another unique feature is the large head with the typical hard skin calluses. In the past it was a coveted prey for whalers because of its abundant oil.
- Atlantic dolphin - Easily recognisable by the light or pale yellow spot behind the dorsal fin. Slightly larger than other species.
- Minke whale - Smaller than other species, recognisable by its elongated, pointed head. It can live alone or in groups of 2/3 individuals.
- Humpback whale - Can reach a length of 16 metres and is characterised by its robust body and huge pectoral fins. It has no teeth and feeds mainly on plankton, small fish and even squid.
- Fin whale - The second largest animal in the world. In the water it is notable for its inverted cone-shaped blow and its great leaps of up to 20 metres.
The best time for whale watching is from May to October, when the whales migrate to the cold waters of the North Atlantic. However, a good number of whales also live in these waters during the rest of the year. Dress appropriately with comfortable shoes, sunglasses in summer and waterproof clothing to avoid splashes.