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This cruise is your best shot at seeing humpback, finback, and minke whales in the wild. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, just 25 miles off Boston’s coast, is a rich feeding ground that draws these giants from April to October—making it one of the top whale-watching spots worldwide.
Beyond whales, Stellwagen Bank is teeming with diverse marine life, including Atlantic white-sided dolphins, harbor porpoises, and a variety of seabirds, such as shearwaters and gannets.
The cruise is led by expert naturalists from the New England Aquarium, an organization that has cared for and protected the ocean and its animals for more than 50 years. With them as your cruise guide, you can have all your questions answered—from their behavior to their diet.
The catamarans used on this cruise are custom-made, high-speed boats that are luxuriously equipped to make your voyage comfortable. This includes spacious outdoor viewing decks, climate-controlled indoor spaces with upholstered seating, large windows, and a snack bar serving light snacks & drinks for purchase.
You can also pick a sightseeing cruise to see the rest of Boston Harbour, which features some iconic landmarks, such as the USS Constitution, Bunker Hill Monument, Old North Church, and Castle Island.
By choosing this cruise, you are contributing to marine conservation and providing economic benefits to the local community. Local operators collaborate with organizations like the New England Aquarium and the Center for Coastal Studies to conduct research and promote responsible whale-watching practices.
| Cruise type | Why choose this? | Duration | Timings | Best for | Recommended tour |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Whale watching | Experience majestic whales in their natural habitat at Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. | 3—4 hours | Apr—Oct, daily between 10am—3:30pm | Nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers | Boston Whale Watching Cruise |
Sightseeing | Narrated tour showcasing Boston's historic landmarks from the harbor. | 1 hour | Daily, between 10am—5pm | First-time visitors and history buffs | Historic Boston Harbor Cruise |
Sunset sightseeing | Relaxing evening cruise with an up-close view of the USS Constitution’s sunset ceremonies. | 1.5 hours | Daily, at 7pm | Romantic outings and sunset lovers | Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise |
Known for their acrobatic breaches and haunting songs, humpbacks are a highlight of the cruise, often seen feeding and playing in the sanctuary's rich waters.
Mid-April to October is the best time. Peak sightings usually happen between June and September when humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes are most active.
Sightings are very likely, but not guaranteed. Operators offer a free return ticket if no whales are spotted.
Yes, they are. Whale watching and sightseeing cruises are great for kids—an educational experience and comfortable travel.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication 30–60 minutes before boarding. Boats move fast, and the water can be choppy.
No dress code, but it’s best to dress in layers. It can be cooler on the water even in summer.
No. Feeding or touching marine life is strictly prohibited for safety and environmental reasons.
No. Sightseeing cruises stay within Boston Harbor and don’t go far enough offshore to reach whale feeding grounds.
Maybe just a few while departing Boston, but the tour focuses on marine life, not the harbor's historic sights.
Spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitats on a guided cruise that goes beyond the typical sightseeing.
Inclusions
3 to 4 hour cruise
Knowledgeable naturalist from the New England Aquarium on board
Comfortable high-speed catamaran with outdoor observation decks
Climate-controlled cabin with large windows
Cushioned seats
State-of-the-art audio and video systems
Exclusions
Sail past some of Boston's historic landmarks on this guided sightseeing cruise.
Inclusions
1-hour Harbor cruise
Knowledgeable guide
Outdoor observation decks
Indoor viewing areas with large windows
Exclusions
Witness the USS Constitution's sunset ceremony on a guided cruise of the Boston Harbor.
Inclusions
Exclusions
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.
