4 hours
Mobile ticket
Guaranteed Sightings! 7 Seas Whale Watch is located in the heart of historic downtown Gloucester, MA and in one of the busiest parts of Gloucester harbor. As soon as you board the Privateer you will be surrounded by the sights and sounds of Gloucester’s working waterfront. You may see fishing boats unloading fish, lobster men baiting and setting their traps, and perhaps even some of our indigenous wildlife such as Harbor seals, Gray seals, and various species of birds. The tour begins with a harbor tour of Gloucester Harbor starting with Cape Pond Ice (which most of you have seen on Wicked Tuna and ends at the Dog Bar Breakwater. A typical trip is anywhere from 3-4 hours but may be extended if the whales move further out for feed. The Privateer IV was built for 300 passengers but we only book to 150 to ensure the comfort and safety of our passengers and is equipped with restrooms, and on-board food Galley and bar.
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
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Late arrivals are not entitled to a refund. Please allow extra travel time in case of traffic.
Trip Advisor's #1 local attraction. 7 Seas Whale Watch has had the privilege of introducing thousands of passengers to the many species of whales and marine wildlife that inhabit the waters from Cape Ann and out to the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. Our trips run from mid-April to mid-October and are designed to educate, inspire and provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of our fragile marine environment. We are a family business – Three generations of career captains have worked from this very dock for more than 7 decades. We have a love and respect for the marine environment and a passion for providing the best possible customer experience for you and your family. We look forward to seeing you on the water.
Naturalist onboard
Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure time.
A 3 and a half hour to 4 hour excursion.
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Food and drinks (available for purchase)
Gratuities
Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Whale Watching: Whale Watching Trips to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. Guaranteed sightings.
2,171 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Darcy L,May 26, 2026
- Review from Viator
If you dont want a crowded tour, this is the one to book! The vessel was easy to move about and there was enough room to move about and see everything. The lady's dealing with orders were fantastic and so was the boat crew. Can't wait to come back for another tour!
gamid2013,May 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
7 Seas Whale Watch was phenomenal. We saw about 15 whales, including three moms with their calves, and the naturalist and crew made the entire experience unforgettable. They were knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and gave us plenty of time to watch the whales without rushing. It was the most incredible whale watching tour I’ve ever been on.
CorvetteKatie,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Exceeded our expectations for whale sightings. They do a great job of pivoting the boat so both sides get to see the whales. So if it’s crowded, find a good spot on the other side and just wait. You’ll get your chance. They have food for sale on the boat but bring cash. There is a large parking lot by the harbor and parking is very affordable (I paid $3 for 6 hours). It was very cold the day we went so I’d recommend getting a seat inside if the weather isn’t great. People would take up a whole booth for just a few people and camp out, so we were stuck standing at the back anytime we wanted to come in to warm up. Be sure to arrive early as they suggest.

Guilly C,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
It was an amazing experience that lead to one of the best dates I've ever had! All the staff was super friendly and shared a lot of knowledge during the tour while still making it fun.
analiza02132,May 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great team on board, friendly and made the entire trip nice and smooth! We also lots and lots of whales; truly had a blast!
lori b,May 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
It’s awesome and worth the cost. The best whale watch I’ve ever experienced. Would do it again in a heartbeat!
leahrV4803PY,May 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great whale sightings and a well led tour.

Michael M,May 22, 2026
- Review from Viator
Fantastic outing seeing multiple pods of whales and calves breaching, and frolicking, sometimes as close 25-30 feet away, even getting the mist from their exhalations on our faces. Awesome trip.


DonnaF832,May 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Ship’s captain, crew and naturalist were awesome. The whales cooperated and gave us quite a show. We definitely recommend this tour!
J B,May 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Trip was amazing. Knowledgeable marine biologist guide. Saw lots of whales up close
Operated by 7 Seas whale Watch