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 3.5 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
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
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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)
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.
3,005 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Lauren O,
Sep 2, 2025
- Viator
Excellent tour and fantastic views of whales in the wild. The crew did a great job of continually turning the boat to make sure everyone could get a good view of the whales. The only thing to be aware of is there were more people on board than seats and it's a roughly 1.5 hour boat ride to get to the whales. I recommend arriving early, dressing warm, and if you have any history of sea sickness taking your Dramamine. It was a bumpy but enjoyable ride.
Paul K,
Sep 1, 2025
- Viator
Fantastic, really friendly staff, nice and safe, good drinks and a nice hoodie! The boat had good seating yet plenty of viewing spots. The guide knew the animals and did a good job to keep us engaged.
Christian w,
Sep 1, 2025
- Viator
Been on 2 whale watching trips in Alaska now this 1 WOW is all I have to say. This was the best bybfat
Andrew S,
Aug 31, 2025
- Viator
I’m writing this 4 years after we did this so can’t remember all the details but it was a cool trip. We got to see several whales out in the ocean and it was amazing. Definitely recommend.
Amanda T,
Aug 31, 2025
- Viator
I loved doing this whale cruise. Easy to book. Ran on time. Staff was kind and very knowledgeable. I was very hopeful to see whales and saw 6 whales many times! The research I did said this was in the window of whale sightings! Thankful for this epic day!
Operated by Boston Harbor City Cruises