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.
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
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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)
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.
3,043 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
John H,
Sep 21, 2025
- Viator
Too many people too big a boat. There were hundreds of people on the boat viewing the whales was 3 or 4 deep. They talk about conservation but there was loads of single use plastic on the boat.... The guide was knowledgeable.
Aleena H,
Sep 21, 2025
- Viator
Great tour! We saw beautiful whales! The boat was clean and easy accessible. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable.
Kristy M,
Sep 21, 2025
- Viator
We got to see a small two whales up close several times. It was a once in a lifetime experience. 10/10 recommend
Christine T,
Sep 20, 2025
- Viator
Neat experience! The wonder of whales will never cease to amaze me, it is life changing to see these creatures in person.
Beth P,
Sep 19, 2025
- Viator
More information needed to prepare for the long boat ride 1 and 1/2 hours each way for 30 minute whale watching. The guide was terrific, learned a lot about the wildlife.
Operated by Boston Harbor City Cruises