Spot Boston whales & other animals on your upcoming whale watching tour

Whale watching in Boston isn’t just about whales—you’ll also spot a variety of dolphins, seabirds, sharks (occasionally), and other marine life thriving around Stellwagen Bank, one of North America’s richest feeding grounds.

Animals to lookout for

Humpback whales

Seasonality: April–October (peak: June–September)
Huge, charismatic whales known for breaching, tail slaps, and bubble-net feeding. They return yearly to Stellwagen Bank, offering the most reliable and photogenic sightings on Boston tours.

Fin whales

Seasonality: May–October
The world’s second-largest whale glides quickly through open water. Often seen feeding alongside humpbacks, their sleek bodies and tall spouts make them easy to identify at a distance.

Minke whales

Seasonality: April–October
Smaller and fast-moving, minkes surface briefly and quietly, making them tricky to spot. They often appear near feeding birds or bubble trails created by larger whales.

Atlantic white-sided dolphins

Seasonality: Year-round (most common May–October)
Fast, energetic dolphins that travel in large pods. They frequently bow-ride alongside boats, creating lively, close-range viewing moments for passengers.

Harbor porpoises

Seasonality: Year-round
Shy and small, harbor porpoises surface briefly with gentle dips. You typically see them in small groups close to the waterline, especially in the early season.

Gray seals

Seasonality: Year-round
Large seals with long snouts that haul out on rocks and beaches near Cape Cod. They’re often spotted bobbing curiously near whale activity.

Harbor seals

Seasonality: Year-round (best in spring)
These smaller seals rest on coastal ledges and swim near tour routes. Their round faces and dog-like expressions make them easy to recognize.

Ocean sunfish (Mola mola)

Seasonality: July–September
A massive flat fish that drifts near the surface, flapping its fin like a waving flag. Tours often slow down for this unusual, slow-moving species.

Sharks (occassional)

Seasonality: June–August
Blue sharks and basking sharks sometimes appear near feeding areas. Sightings are infrequent but exciting when conditions align.

Seabirds

Seasonality: Year-round (species vary by month)
Expect puffins (rare), shearwaters, storm-petrels, gannets, and gulls. Bird activity often signals whale feeding zones, offering great photography moments.