City Cruises Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Boat
Overview
Available languages
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
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
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
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)
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
3,147 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Whale watching off Boston coast
Robert V,Jun 4, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00If you sit outside you will not hear the person narrating the tour could not be heard. The speaker was not turned up enough. When the boat was stopped we could barely hear him. The whales were excellent
Recommend!
Monique J,Jun 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Take your anti-nausea meds! Soooo many people got sick BUT it was magical when we got to see them 3 adults and one 6 month old calf. Lots of fun’s facts, super informative and people walking all over asking if we had any questions. It was crowded, recommend going early to get a good spot. Was worth it!
Whales, whales, and more whales
G8486ETneals,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Whalewatching is always a gamble, but this cruise delivered. Where to start? Friendly and knowledgeable staff. The cruise was organized and well executed. The ongoing commentary was quite good. Best of all, by taking this cruise, you help support whale conservation. Don’t miss it. It is the best half-day you will spend in Boton.
Canceled twice
Dana H,Jun 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00The experience was canceled twice. One time they said there were critical whales in the area and they couldn't go, yesterday they said the Seas were too rough, but I was in the general area outside of Boston and saw plenty of boats on the water including sailboats and small boats.
Magnificent!
H3195ZCpatricias,May 31, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Amazing! This was an experience I hope to never forget. The naturalist did a wonderful job of narrating. The whales were magnificent!
Great Trip
Teresa C,May 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a great day out on the ocean… We got to see at least five whales and learn all about the ecosystem
Great, knowledgable...
Patti H,May 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great, knowledgable guides who were genuinely giddy about our experience. We saw a ton of whales and seals!
Great tour seeing many humpback whales
KarenS F,May 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00As I was walking with a cane, I was allowed to board early so I did not have to stand for a long time. The boat left on time. The naturalist provided excellent commentary throughout our trip and the captain was adept at moving the boat around so that everyone had a good view of the whales once we found them. The initial trip out was a bit rough for a bunch of people, because of 4-5 foot waves (did not bother me at all). Before we left the crew did warn people to take dramamine, though. We saw several humpback waves, including a mother and baby. They stayed pretty close to the boat so we got excellent views and pictures. We were out near the whales for an hour and a half. The ride back was much calmer. I would highly recommend this tour!
such a memorable experience
Melanie U,May 25, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This whale watching trip was absolutely worth it, despite the windy, rainy weather and some pretty choppy waters. It took about 1.5 hours to get out to the whale area, where we spent around an hour watching an estimated 15–20 humpback whales, including moms alongside their calves. We saw so many breaches, and a few whales even came right up near the boat. The gray seals were such a cute added bonus, popping their heads up right beside us. The crew was incredibly knowledgeable and just as excited about the wildlife as all of us on board, which made the experience even better. Definitely an unforgettable experience witnessing these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat.
Best Experience
Wanderer37919916550,May 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00One of the best experiences I’ve ever had! Ended up seeing several whales and a baby which was just AMAZING. You will not be disappointed!
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Operated by Boston Harbor City Cruises