City Cruises Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Boat

Overview

Available languages

English

3 hours 30 minutes

Mobile ticket

Set sail with us for the whale watch experience of a lifetime on the New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise. Our destination: Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds, and other marine creatures. Stellwagen is home to many species of large whales, including humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes.

New England Aquarium naturalists will share knowledge, answer your questions, and explain the fascinating behaviors of these truly magnificent mammals on the sea life cruise experience.

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 to 4 hours.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Remember sunscreen and sunglasses

Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure. Guests must arrive early, as late arrivals will miss the boat.

Bring a light sweater or jacket, as well as sunscreen and sunglasses.

Not recommended for guests prone to motion sickness

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Restroom (on board)

Visit Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales other marine creatures

Whale Watch Cruise aboard Catamaran

Air-conditioned vehicle

See a variety of whales, including Humpbacks, Finbacks, and Minkes.

Narrated by a New England Aquarium Naturalist as your Guide

Food and drinks (available to purchase on board)

Optional.

Sea sickness medication (for guests prone to motion sickness)

What To Expect

Each Boston Whale Watching Cruise is narrated and guided by a naturalist from the New England Aquarium. One of the whales you're likely to spot during a Boston Whale Watching Cruise is the humpback. These Northern hemisphere humpbacks reach an average length of 50 feet, and a weight of about 37 tons! With the data collected on each cruise, the NEAQ is able to further their understanding of whales and their world. And, their presence on board ensures that your whale watch will be an exciting and educational trip! The catamarans feature outside decks for optimum viewing capability. Inside you will find climate controlled cabin space with cushioned seating, tables, state-of-the-art audio-visual, and a galley offering snacks and beverages for purchase.

Options

Whale Watching Cruise

Reviews

4.44

3,086 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

2273

370

166

190

The whale watching tour...
Amber F,
Oct 14, 2025
- Viator
3.00
The whale watching tour was okay but not really worth the money. While we did see some whales, there were way too many people on board, which made it hard to get a good view. The constant movement of people going in and out from the deck to indoors was also a bit frustrating. That said, the guide was very knowledgeable and shared a lot of great information about the wildlife
Saw a humpback blow and...
Terrence B,
Oct 12, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Saw a humpback blow and dive several times, including one up close. The narrator was great and enthusiastic.
Fun and informative adventure!
Priscilla M,
Oct 12, 2025
- Viator
5.00
In October the weather was beautiful but with a high temp being only 60 degrees be sure and bundle up...it was very chilly and windy but lovely
A great experience
Vanesa M,
Oct 11, 2025
- Viator
5.00
It's very worth it. The crew of the catamaran is very attentive, they explain many things and it is very comfortable the journey, with screens that provide data of interest. In our case we were lucky enough to spot many whales.
Great outing
Laura F,
Oct 11, 2025
- Viator
5.00
A great outing, family friendly, really cool to see the whales and learn about them. The snack bar on board is well-stocked, and there are books, coloring pages, and other kid's activities for the hour or so ride each way to where the whales are. Although we didn't spot other wildlife this trip, there's potential to see much more than whales. I'd recommend this outing if you're interested in sea life.