Boston

Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran

Boston, USA

Overview

Experience the best of New England’s marine wildlife on this guided whale-watching cruise around the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Hop on a high-speed catamaran that gets to and from the whales in the least amount of time possible. See humpback and fin whales, plus Atlantic white-sided dolphins with the help of a naturalist guide. The on-board galley offers food and beverages for purchase during the trip.
  • Boston Whale Watch Cruise aboard high-speed catamaran
  • See Humpbacks, Finbacks, and the critically endangered Right Whales during your sail
  • Enjoy a scenic whale-watching cruise around Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary
  • Narrated by a New England Aquarium Naturalist as your Guide

Why Travelers Choose This Tour

Guaranteed whale sightings, or you receive a free voucher for another cruise.

What's Included

  • Boston Whale Watch Cruise aboard High-Speed Catamaran
  • See a variety of whales, including Humpbacks, Finbacks, and the critically endangered Right Whales
  • Visit Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds and other marine creatures
  • Narrated by a New England Aquarium Naturalist as your Guide
  • Gratuities
  • Food and drinks (available to purchase on board)

Meeting And Pickup

Meeting point

  • Long Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, USA

    The Ticket Center is located on Long Wharf, just a few steps from the Marriott Hotel. The Ticket Center has a statue of a Humpback whale on its roof. From North - Take exit 24 (Callahan Tunnel) off Route 93. Follow signs to Long Wharf Ferry Terminal. From South - From South, take exit 23 (Gov't Center/Aquarium) off Route 93. Follow signs to the Aquarium. From the East / Logan Airport - Take the Sumner Tunnel to Boston, bearing right on Cross Street. Follow signs for Route 93 South. Do not take highway (to the left), but watch for Dock Square sign (to the right). You'll see Haymarket and the Bostonian Hotel on the right. Follow the sign for Waterfront Surface Artery; Long Wharf is straight ahead on the left. Parking Parking garages are available nearby at such areas as Rowes Wharf, The Marriott Hotel, The Garage at Post Office Square, The Boston Harbor Garage, and all Quincy Market parking (within easy walking distance). Public Transport Take the MBTA Blue Line to the Aquarium station or Orange Line to the State stop.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Beginning at Central Wharf in Boston, hop aboard a high-speed catamaran and embark on a whale-watching cruise to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, a stretch of open water at the mouth of Massachusetts Bay that serves as a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds and more.

From the ship’s three outdoor decks, view humpback, fin, minke and pilot whales, plus Atlantic white-sided dolphins and more with the help of a naturalist from the Whale Center of New England. They share their knowledge about the animals’ behaviors, conservation status, scientific tracking and more.

In between whale sightings, relax in the comfortable, climate-controlled indoor cabin, which features state-of-the-art sound and video systems, the New England Aquarium Education Station and a galley offering food and beverages for purchase.

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • The boat is wheelchair accessible, however the restrooms are not wheelchair accessible
  • Don't forget the camera, film and binoculars
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Stroller accessible
  • There is a galley serving food and beverages
  • Wear comfortable shoes or sneakers
  • Near public transportation
  • Bring a light sweater or jacket
  • Remember sunscreen and sunglasses
  • Transportation is wheelchair accessible
  • Most travelers can participate
  • The location of the whales may require more travel time, extending the trip beyond three hours. Please allow for additional time in your schedule. The average trip is between 3.5 to 4 hours
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 400 travelers

Cancellation Policy

This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed for any reason. If you cancel or ask for an amendment, the amount you paid will not be refunded.

  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.

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Q:Should I make advance reservations for the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?

A:Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Trips often sell out.

May 2021

Q:When should I arrive for the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?

A:Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your departure time to allow for boarding.

May 2021

Q:Is parking available near the departure point for the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?

A:There are two parking garages: The Harbor Garage, 70 E. India Row, Boston; and Rowes Wharf Garage, 30 Rowes Wharf, Boston. Parking fees apply at both locations.

May 2021

Q:How long is the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?

A:The location of the whales may require more travel time, extending the trip beyond three hours. Please allow for additional time in your schedule. The average trip is between 3.5 to 4 hours.

May 2021

Q:Are restrooms available onboard during the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?

A:Yes, restrooms are available on board.

May 2021

Q:What should I bring with me on the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?

A:Comfortable rubber-soled shoes or sneakers are a good idea, along with a light sweater or jacket, even on a warm day. Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are a must and don’t forget your camera or binoculars.

May 2021

Q:Is food available during the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?

A:Yes! There is a selection of sandwiches as well as tasty snacks. Fruit juices, tea, sports drinks, and other beverages are also available along with beer, wine, and cocktails. Note: bring cash as the credit card readers don't always function at sea.

May 2021

Q:What happens if I don't see any whales during the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?

A:Whale sightings are fully guaranteed. If there are no whale sightings on your trip, you will receive a free ticket for a future trip.

May 2021

Q:Will I experience motion sickness during the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?

A:The catamarans are designed to be highly stable, but some passengers may experience motion sickness. Medication such as Dramamine may help. Facing forward with your head resting on the seatback near the front of the boat can help as well.

May 2021

Q:Can I bring my pet with me on the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?

A:Yes - animals onboard must be kept with you and leashed or kept in a carrier at all times. Note - the cruise may last up to 4 hours, so it is up to the pet owner to consider if it is appropriate for the pet’s comfort and wellbeing.

May 2021

Traveler Photos

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Featured review
Michael_S
This was an awesome trip, and I highly recommend it to anybody who is looking for something to do in Boston. The crew was amazing and we got to see these beautiful majestic creatures in abundance. It was a great trip. Was very comfortable and I recommend it highly.

Reviews

4.5
2,448 reviews
Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
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Reviews by Viator travelers.
Showing 1-10 of 2,448 reviews
We saw over 20 whales!
Lindsey_R, Feb 2024
We LOVED every bit of this cruise! We saw over 20 whales. They were popping up everywhere! Make sure to sit on the bottom deck if you are prone to seasickness, but otherwise the ride is smooth and lots of snacks available onboard as well. It was magic - my mom and family loved it so much!
Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran
marpo54, Nov 2023
Quick and easy ordering tickets on Viator website with great prices. Easy to find pickup area in Boston by the Aquarium. Boat was warm inside and the tour operators (Colin) were knowledgeable regarding history and where the whales are located. We did spot several whale spouts but only the tips of their heads and fins. It could possible have been the tail when it went into the water. Overall trip was worth it and we are glad we went.
Bucket list checked off!
Ana_B, Nov 2023
Staff very friendly. Explained the process of finding the whales very clear. Very educational as well.
Whale of a Ride
Matthew_S, Nov 2023
I have done whale watching before in other parts of the country. Each time it is always different. This is no exception. I liked that the boat was comfortable and there were restrooms on board. We saw two humpback whales (anytime you see a whale in the Atlantic in November it’s a plus), and while generally it was fun, the ride was choppy and the operation of the boat was not satisfactory. That along with the rough waters made people seasick.
Bad weather
gwennie10, Nov 2023
Highlight we did see some Whales, bur the trip was really rough and although warned about rough seas, i think they should have cancelled, quite a few people where being sick.
You must do this
Ashley_s, Nov 2023
This was an amazing experience the weather was perfect and we saw 6 humpback whales. The guides on the boat take about what to expect and they talk alot about the whales
Wonderful trip
Melissa_S, Nov 2023
Very knowledgeable and helpful staff, a very entertaining and fun outing. Boat was well maintained and ride was smooth.
Great trip
Rosa_T, Nov 2023
The staff was very informative and helpful. The boat was clean and spacious. We saw a few whales and captain stood out in the water a little longer to make sure we all had a chance the see the whales. Overall a great experience.
Whale is a good time!
Jamie_S, Nov 2023
This was an amazing experience. The captain and crew were so informative and knowledgeable. They made sure we had the best experience possible and even stayed a little longer to allow us to observe a mother whale with her calf. I definitely recommend this experience. 10/10!
Awesome excursion. Say...
Raymond_L, Nov 2023
Awesome excursion. Say many humpback whales. Even saw one breach. Rude was relaxing and entertaining
Whale watching.
Michelle_J, Nov 2023
We did see whales but it was a very crowded boat. It would have been more memorable if you could easily get to a railing and move from side to side of the boat.
Guaranteed to catch sight of whales!
RChris_D, Nov 2023
Despite the terrible weather, they will guarantee seeing at least one whale, if they they will offer a voucher for a future trip. Managed to catch sight of 7 humpback whales on my trip. Highly recommended
Whale watching
Alejandro_C, Nov 2023
+50% feeling unwell due to the weather, staff was pretty rude. If they know the climate it’s not gonna be enjoyable give the chance to cancel. On other side you do see the whales and seem to know them pretty well
Great stories and...
Erin_K, Nov 2023
Great stories and wonderful naturalist. Weather wasn't fantastic but it was still nice. Really fun outing!
wonderful. awesome family day
Deborah_W, Oct 2023
whales aplenty. adults and a calf. knowledgeable staff who enjoyed what they saw as much as the passengers. added to the pleasure. wonerful. awesome day!
Amazing Experience!
Barbara_Q, Oct 2023
The staff was friendly and knowledgable. We were lucky enough to see many whales and even had a pod swim up to the boat. It was an amazing experience and was so glad I booked it.
A super special experience
Helena_C, Oct 2023
Lovely big boat and super friendly and informative staff (particularly Sian who came around our cabin with lots of information). I was worried about getting sick, but one travel sick pill was enough to let me enjoy the experience of seeing the four whales we encountered. A super special experience and worth every penny.
Great Whale Watching
Willa_H, Oct 2023
Great whale watching trip!! We saw lots of whales and they even came up close to the boat!! Highly recommend.
Memorable boat ride with my daughter wale watching!
Peggy_R, Oct 2023
It was an exceptionally warm sunny day in late October. The ride was nice (took Dramamine) but no need for it, smooth ride. Out to sea in about an hour and 30 minutes and started seeing whales! Staff was very knowledgeable and loved excitement in her voice as whales were all around us! Over all wonderful experience.
Incredible experience! Must do!
Kelsey_S, Oct 2023
Had an amazing time! We saw 7 different whales and sometimes they got super close to our boat. A few even dove under our boat! They had drinks and food on board for purchase which was nice because we were gone for about 3 and half to 4 hours. The weather was absolutely perfect I could see if it were a little windy or cooler might be miserable if you didn’t have enough layers (they do have a few indoor siting areas). We went so much farther out then I expected we were all the way off the coast of Providencetown! It was incredible to see the whales in their natural habitat and they were so much bigger then I imagined. The guides were so knowledgeable and let us ask questions and got to feel a “whale tooth” and hold one of their vertebrae. You have to check it out!
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From $79.97

-You will not receive a refund if you cancel.

  • 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Mobile ticket
  • Offered in: English

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