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 3.5 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

The boat is wheelchair accessible, however the restrooms are not wheelchair accessible

Don't forget the camera and binoculars

Bring a light sweater or jacket

Remember sunscreen and sunglasses

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

Not recommended for guests prone to motion sickness

Cancellation Policy

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

What‘s Included

Restroom (on board)

Air-conditioned vehicle

Visit Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds and other marine creatures

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

Boston Whale Watch Cruise aboard High-Speed Boat

Narrated by a New England Aquarium Naturalist as your Guide

Food and drinks (available to purchase on board)

Gratuities

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, NEAQ is able to further the 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 3 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

4.45

2,915 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

2151

351

157

174

Amazing Trip!
Inez F,
Jul 16, 2025
- Viator
5.00
This was our first time going on a whale tour and this was the highlight of our visit to Boston. We were able to see a humpback whale and follow it. It was so neat to be so close to it and be able to get video of it in its natural habitat. I really liked how Boston Whale Tours are friendly towards whales. They use jet propulsion to avoid hitting the whales, they don’t go in their path and they don’t use bait to attract whales. I know this may sound minor, but I appreciated hearing this! We had so much fun on this excursion and highly recommend it. To save money, bring your own snacks, food, drinks.
It will be hard to top this whale watching trip
Erica S,
Jul 15, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Great experience and amazing whale sightings. The staff seemed just as excited as the guests, which showed how much they care.
Excellent tour and...
Vincent A,
Jul 14, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Excellent tour and guides! Able to see three species. Crew maneuvered to provide closest possible views.
Fun and informative-...
Cheryl C,
Jul 13, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Fun and informative- excellent narration about sea life. Morning trip can get very cold depending on the weather.
Do this Tour!!
Becky D,
Jul 12, 2025
- Viator
5.00
Love! Love! Love! This trip exceeded my expectations! I love the fact that the woman telling us about the whales was EXTREMELY knowledgeable. She really wanted us to learn about the environment and the whales. During the journey to get to the whales, she came to the passenger area and answered questions. I would highly recommend this tour.