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    Boston Whale Watching Tours

    Panoramic, Open-top views
    Panoramic, Open-top views
    Frequent departures
    Frequent departures
    Audioguide & Commentary available
    Audioguide & Commentary available
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    Catamaran on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise with passengers observing marine life.
    Guests observing whales from a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise
    England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise with guides observing whales in the ocean.
    Humpback whale breaching in the ocean near Reykjavik, Iceland.
    Dolphins swimming near a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Guests observing whales from a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Guests observing whales from a boat on an England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Guide with guests observing whales on a cruise
    Guests boarding a catamaran in Barcelona for a coastal tour.
    Boston downtown waterfront with sailboats on Charles River and city skyline in the background.
    Catamaran on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise with passengers observing marine life.
    Guests observing whales from a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise
    England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise with guides observing whales in the ocean.
    Humpback whale breaching in the ocean near Reykjavik, Iceland.
    Dolphins swimming near a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Guests observing whales from a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Guests observing whales from a boat on an England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Guide with guests observing whales on a cruise
    Guests boarding a catamaran in Barcelona for a coastal tour.
    Boston downtown waterfront with sailboats on Charles River and city skyline in the background.
    Catamaran on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise with passengers observing marine life.
    Guests observing whales from a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise
    England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise with guides observing whales in the ocean.
    Humpback whale breaching in the ocean near Reykjavik, Iceland.
    Dolphins swimming near a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Guests observing whales from a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Guests observing whales from a boat on an England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Guide with guests observing whales on a cruise
    Guests boarding a catamaran in Barcelona for a coastal tour.
    Boston downtown waterfront with sailboats on Charles River and city skyline in the background.
    4.6(14)

    New England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise

    from
    $79.93
    Free cancellation

    You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

    Instant confirmation
    Mobile ticket
    3 hr 30 min

    Spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitats on a guided cruise that goes beyond the typical sightseeing.

    Everything you get: Enjoy a 3–4 hour scenic cruise aboard a large, stable catamaran with indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds at a protected marine sanctuary, with expert narration from naturalists. Sit comfortably in climate-controlled cabins and soak up incredible ocean views.

    Why choose this: Led by New England Aquarium naturalists, the cruise offers your best chance to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitats—and learn about them, too.

    Spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitats on a guided cruise that goes beyond the typical sightseeing.

    Everything you get: Enjoy a 3–4 hour scenic cruise aboard a large, stable catamaran with indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds at a protected marine sanctuary, with expert narration from naturalists. Sit comfortably in climate-controlled cabins and soak up incredible ocean views.

    Why choose this: Led by New England Aquarium naturalists, the cruise offers your best chance to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitats—and learn about them, too.

    Inclusions

    • 3-4 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

    • Food & drinks from the snack bar
    • Infant tickets must be purchased onboard.
    • Visitors who are prone to motion sickness are advised to take medication before boarding the boat.
    • Check your email before the cruise for any information on rough seas or bad weather.
    • Whale sightings can be unpredictable, so we recommend allowing extra time in your schedule in case the cruise runs longer than expected.
    • Food and drinks are available for purchase onboard.
    • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
    Reviews
    How do we collect reviews?
    Snapshots from our guests
    4.6
    14 ratings
    11
    2
    0
    0
    1
    What our guests say
    reviewer
    ANA
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    5/5

    It was wonderful. We saw several whales, the team was super attentive. I will totally come back to do it again and if all goes well, see other species of whales and even dolphins.

    reviewer
    Kelly
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    5/5

    The Whale Watching experience was phenominal. The ticketing experience was not good at all.

    reviewer
    Darlyne
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    5/5

    The best aquarium ever. The whale watching was the best ever

    reviewer
    Susan
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    5/5

    Loved it!! Saw whales it was in credible

    reviewer
    Loammi
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    5/5

    reviewer
    Faith
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    5/5

    reviewer
    Jeames
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    5/5

    reviewer
    Traci
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    5/5

    reviewer
    Ann
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    5/5

    reviewer
    Irma
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    4/5

    reviewer
    Seda
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    5/5

    reviewer
    Rebecca
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    4/5

    reviewer
    Alyson
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    5/5

    reviewer
    Thomas
    Jun 2025Verified booking
    1/5

    Foggy day didn't see any whales not sure I'll get a voucher because I booked through this third party instead of direct.

    Frederick L Nolan Jr boat cruising Boston Harbor with city skyline in background.
    Guests enjoying the Historic Boston Harbor Cruise with views of the Boston skyline and historic ships.
    Boston Harbor waterfront skyline with city buildings and boats, Massachusetts.
    Bunker Hill Monument viewed from Boston Harbor with sailboats in the foreground.
    Tourists photographing the USS Constitution in Boston Harbor.
    Boston Harbor view with city skyline in the background, highlighting Boston's waterfront attractions.
    Guests enjoying views of Boston skyline on Historic Boston Harbor Cruise.
    Frederick L Nolan Jr boat cruising Boston Harbor with city skyline in background.
    Guests enjoying the Historic Boston Harbor Cruise with views of the Boston skyline and historic ships.
    Boston Harbor waterfront skyline with city buildings and boats, Massachusetts.
    Bunker Hill Monument viewed from Boston Harbor with sailboats in the foreground.
    Tourists photographing the USS Constitution in Boston Harbor.
    Boston Harbor view with city skyline in the background, highlighting Boston's waterfront attractions.
    Guests enjoying views of Boston skyline on Historic Boston Harbor Cruise.
    Frederick L Nolan Jr boat cruising Boston Harbor with city skyline in background.
    Guests enjoying the Historic Boston Harbor Cruise with views of the Boston skyline and historic ships.
    Boston Harbor waterfront skyline with city buildings and boats, Massachusetts.
    Bunker Hill Monument viewed from Boston Harbor with sailboats in the foreground.
    Tourists photographing the USS Constitution in Boston Harbor.
    Boston Harbor view with city skyline in the background, highlighting Boston's waterfront attractions.
    Guests enjoying views of Boston skyline on Historic Boston Harbor Cruise.
    NEW

    Historic Boston Harbor Cruise

    from
    $46
    Free cancellation

    You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

    Instant confirmation
    Mobile ticket
    1 hr

    Sail past some of Boston's historic landmarks on this guided sightseeing cruise.

    Everything you get: Enjoy a one-hour scenic sightseeing cruise around the iconic Boston Harbor aboard a spacious boat with comfortable indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Spot historic landmarks along the city's skyline, including the USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Monument, as your expert guide regales you with heroic tales of war and local legends.

    Why choose this: A guided sightseeing cruise of Boston Harbor is a great way to see the city's historic landmarks and learn about them. It's especially recommended if you're short on time.

    Sail past some of Boston's historic landmarks on this guided sightseeing cruise.

    Everything you get: Enjoy a one-hour scenic sightseeing cruise around the iconic Boston Harbor aboard a spacious boat with comfortable indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Spot historic landmarks along the city's skyline, including the USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Monument, as your expert guide regales you with heroic tales of war and local legends.

    Why choose this: A guided sightseeing cruise of Boston Harbor is a great way to see the city's historic landmarks and learn about them. It's especially recommended if you're short on time.

    Inclusions

    • 1-hour Harbor cruise
    • Knowledgeable guide
    • Outdoor observation decks
    • Indoor viewing areas with large windows

    Exclusions

    • Food & drinks
    • While infant entry is free, make sure to select the free infant ticket option at checkout.
    • The boat is wheelchair accessible.
    • Food & drinks are available for purchase onboard.
    • Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure time.
    • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
    Boston skyline at sunset with prominent skyscrapers and Charles River in the foreground.
    Guests enjoying a Boston sunset cruise with city skyline and sailboats in the background.
    Custom House Tower in Boston with a clear blue sky backdrop.
    USS Constitution docked at Boston Harbor with city skyline in the background.
    Boston Harbor with skyline view of Financial District, Massachusetts, USA.
    Guests enjoying a Boston sunset cruise with city skyline and sailboats in the background.
    Boston downtown skyscrapers with Charles River in the foreground.
    Boston skyline at sunset with prominent skyscrapers and Charles River in the foreground.
    Guests enjoying a Boston sunset cruise with city skyline and sailboats in the background.
    Custom House Tower in Boston with a clear blue sky backdrop.
    USS Constitution docked at Boston Harbor with city skyline in the background.
    Boston Harbor with skyline view of Financial District, Massachusetts, USA.
    Guests enjoying a Boston sunset cruise with city skyline and sailboats in the background.
    Boston downtown skyscrapers with Charles River in the foreground.
    Boston skyline at sunset with prominent skyscrapers and Charles River in the foreground.
    Guests enjoying a Boston sunset cruise with city skyline and sailboats in the background.
    Custom House Tower in Boston with a clear blue sky backdrop.
    USS Constitution docked at Boston Harbor with city skyline in the background.
    Boston Harbor with skyline view of Financial District, Massachusetts, USA.
    Guests enjoying a Boston sunset cruise with city skyline and sailboats in the background.
    Boston downtown skyscrapers with Charles River in the foreground.
    NEW

    Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise

    from
    $56.35
    Free cancellation

    You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

    Instant confirmation
    Mobile ticket
    1 hr 30 min

    Witness the USS Constitution's sunset ceremony on a guided cruise of the Boston Harbor.

    • Everything you get: Witness the Boston skies turn vibrant orange as you cruise along the iconic Boston Harbor aboard a spacious boat with outdoor decks and indoor seating. Led by a local English-speaking guide, hear engaging stories about the harbor’s rich past and present. Get an up-close view of the USS Constitution’s sunset ceremony, including the traditional cannon salute that marks the end of the day.
    • Why choose this: This is a wholesome Boston Harbor experience that combines sightseeing, expert storytelling, and witnessing the USS Constitution's sunset ceremony.

    Witness the USS Constitution's sunset ceremony on a guided cruise of the Boston Harbor.

    • Everything you get: Witness the Boston skies turn vibrant orange as you cruise along the iconic Boston Harbor aboard a spacious boat with outdoor decks and indoor seating. Led by a local English-speaking guide, hear engaging stories about the harbor’s rich past and present. Get an up-close view of the USS Constitution’s sunset ceremony, including the traditional cannon salute that marks the end of the day.
    • Why choose this: This is a wholesome Boston Harbor experience that combines sightseeing, expert storytelling, and witnessing the USS Constitution's sunset ceremony.

    Inclusions

    • 90-minute sunset cruise
    • Knowledgeable guide
    • Outdoor observation decks
    • Indoor viewing areas with large windows

    Exclusions

    • Food & drinks
    • The boat is wheelchair accessible.
    • Food & beverages are available for purchase onboard.
    • Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure time.
    • The dress code is casual attire—avoid athleisure, swimwear, and flip-flops.
    • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
    BostonBoston Whale Watching Cruises

    Looking to see whales up close? Boston’s whale watching cruise is one of the best ways to experience marine life in New England. These cruises take you to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground where you’re likely to spot humpback, finback, and minke whales—sometimes even dolphins and sea birds.

    This guide will help you choose and plan the most suitable cruise. Read on!

    Sail through this Boston whale watching tour guide

    1. Why go on a Boston whale watching tour
    2. Things to know before booking your Boston whale watching tour
    3. Find your ideal cruise
    4. What you’ll see on the cruise
    5. Plan your visit
    6. Checklist for a hassle-free boarding experience
    7. Frequently asked questions about the Boston whale watching tour

    Why go on a Boston whale watching tour

    Guests observing whales from a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Dolphins swimming near a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Guide with guests observing whales on a cruise
    Guests observing whales from a boat on an England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.
    Boston Harbor with skyline view of Financial District, Massachusetts, USA.
    Humpback whale breaching
    1/6

    Spot majestic whales in their natural habitat

    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.

    Explore a rich marine ecosystem

    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.

    Learn from expert naturalists

    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.

    Enjoy a comfortable voyage aboard a catamaran

    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.

    Spot iconic landmarks

    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.

    Support marine conservation efforts

    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.

    Highlights of your whale watching experience

    Catamaran on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise with passengers observing marine life.

    ✔️ High-speed catamarans

    England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise with guides observing whales in the ocean.

    ✔️ Professional, knowledgeable naturalists on board

    A person looking at a whale breaching the surface of the ocean

    ✔️ Sightings guaranteed and scenic views

    Guests observing whales from a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise

    ✔️ Outdoor viewing decks and indoor spaces with large windows

    Things to know before booking your Boston whale watching tour

    • Whale watching tours are one of the top activities in Boston, drawing over a million visitors every year. You’ll make your way to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds, and other marine creatures.
    • Whale sightings and scenic views are guaranteed on your tour.
    • Whale watching season runs from May to October, with peak sightings during the summer. An onboard expert helps spot and explain the behavior of humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes.
    • To dive deep into Boston's history, you can choose a Historic sightseeing cruises, where the guide shares fascinating insights about each landmark.
    • Want to witness history unfold? On the Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise, you can witness the USS Constitution's sunset ceremony, complete with the cannon firing.

    Find your ideal cruise

    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

    What you’ll see on your tour

    Humpback whale breaching ocean surface

    Humpback whales

    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.

    A whale's tail and seabirds on the surface of the ocea
    Minke Whale spotted during Whale Watching Tour
    North Atlantic right whales swimming
    Dolphins Swimming in the ocean
    Harbor seal swimming underwater
    Boston Harbor cruise ships docked at Long Wharf with city skyline in the background.
    Tourists photographing the USS Constitution in Boston Harbor.
    Bunker Hill Monument viewed from Boston Harbor with sailboats in the foreground.
    See all photos

    Plan your visit

    Location
    Timings
    Best time to go
    Facilities
    Rules & regulations
    Visitor tips
    Man sitting inside the Subway

    All cruises depart from Long Wharf, a historic waterfront pier.
    Find on Maps

    How to get here?

    • Blue line subway: It connects to the Aquarium station, which is a 6-minute walk to the pier.
    • By MBTA: The ferry connects Hingham and Hull ferry to Long Wharf.
    • From Logan Airport: Take the Route 66 On-Airport Shuttle to the Water Transportation Dock and then hop on the Hingham/Hull ferry.
    • By car: Paid parking facilities are available nearby, starting at $28 per hour.
    • Whale watching cruise: The first boat departs at 10am, and the duration can vary from 3—4 hours.
    • Sightseeing cruise: The first boat departs at 10am and the duration is for 1 hour.
    • Sunset cruise: The boat departs at 7pm and the duration is 90 minutes.
    Guests boarding a catamaran on the Whale watching cruise
    • Whale watching cruises are seasonal, with peak sightings from May—October. Morning departures are ideal for calmer seas, fewer crowds, and better visibility—making for a more enjoyable experience.
    • Sightseeing cruises are best from April through October, when the weather is pleasant and visibility is good. Late morning to early afternoon (10am to 2pm) offers the best lighting for photos and views.
    • Sunset cruises are best from late spring to early fall (May–September), with sailings timed to catch the sunset and flag-lowering ceremony.
    Modern washroom facilities with sinks and mirrors in a tourist attraction.
    • High-speed catamarans with climate-controlled indoor cabins for the whale watching cruises; comfortable boats with outdoor and indoor decks for the sightseeing cruises.
    • Clean and accessible restrooms onboard, designed to support guests with limited mobility.
    • Full-service bars serving beverages and snacks; outside food and beverages are not allowed.
    • Basic Wi-Fi connectivity is available, although signal strength may vary offshore.
    • Wheelchair accessibility includes boarding ramps and indoor seating; outdoor decks may have limited access.
    A whale's tail breaching the surface on the ocean
    • Follow crew instructions—especially while boarding and disembarking.
    • Maintain distance from wildlife and avoid behaviors that may distress them.
    • Carrying beverages from outside, pets, and fireworks are prohibited on the boats.
    Deli sandwich with layers of meat, cheese, and vegetables on a wooden board.
    • Carry binoculars since most whales appear at a distance from your boat. 
    • If you’re prone to motion sickness, sit on the lower deck, near the boat’s centre, where there is less movement.
    • The cruise will take approximately four hours—plan at least half a day for the tour. Carry snacks—it’s going to be a long day.
    • If you manage to snag a prime photo shooting spot, stay there.
    • Stand near one of the onboard speakers to better hear the naturalist.
    • Carry an extra pair of clothes, in case the waves drench you.

    Checklist for a hassle-free boarding experience

    • Arrive early: Reach your boarding pier at least 15 minutes before departure time—the cruise will leave at the scheduled time.
    • Precautionary measures: Guests who are prone to motion sickness are advised to take medication at least one hour before departure time.
    • Keep your documents handy: Keep your ticket or QR code ready, with a valid ID proof.
    • Stay alert: Listen to crew instructions, especially during boarding and marine life encounters.
    • Ask for assistance: Be it with accessibility or understanding the rules of your cruise type.

    Things to do after your whale watching tour

    Visitors enjoying panoramic views from View Boston observation deck.

    View Boston

    Get a 360° view of the city from the Prudential Tower’s observation deck, with interactive exhibits and rooftop experiences showcasing Boston’s skyline and history.

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    Boston sightseeing bus with Boston skyline in background

    Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours

    Explore Boston at your own pace with hop-on hop-off bus tours that stop at major attractions like Fenway Park, Quincy Market, and the Freedom Trail.

    Book your tickets

    Frequently asked questions about Boston whale watching tours

    When is peak whale season?

    Mid-April to October is the best time. Peak sightings usually happen between June and September when humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes are most active.

    Are sightings guaranteed?

    Sightings are very likely, but not guaranteed. Operators offer a free return ticket if no whales are spotted.

    Are Boston cruises kid-friendly?

    Yes, they are. Whale watching and sightseeing cruises are great for kids—an educational experience and comfortable travel.

    What if I get seasick on my cruise?

    If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication 30–60 minutes before boarding. Boats move fast, and the water can be choppy.

    Is there a dress code?

    No dress code, but it’s best to dress in layers. It can be cooler on the water even in summer.

    Can I feed the whales?

    No. Feeding or touching marine life is strictly prohibited for safety and environmental reasons.

    Will I spot whales on my sightseeing cruise?

    No. Sightseeing cruises stay within Boston Harbor and don’t go far enough offshore to reach whale feeding grounds.

    Will I spot landmarks on my whale watching tour?

    Maybe just a few while departing Boston, but the tour focuses on marine life, not the harbor's historic sights.

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