There’s something utterly breathtaking about watching a whale migration by boat. You’re there in the thick of it, yards away from mammoth oceanic creatures as they travel north or south according to the season — an experience that’ll have your head swimming long after you disembark.
An adult ticket for a three- to four-hour whale-watching tour in Boston is around $48 to $58. However, most tour companies offer discounts for seniors, kids and military members.
Consider checking out current whale watch deals for specials and cheaper rates.
When is whale-watching season in Boston?
The best time to see whales in Boston is from April to October. They migrate to feed on fish like krill, herring and mackerel in Massachusetts Bay and beyond.
Whales aren’t fond of cold weather. When winter comes, they migrate south to mate and give birth to calves — baby whales.
Traveling during COVID-19
The CDC advises postponing travel to protect yourself and your family from getting or spreading COVID-19. If you plan to travel during the pandemic, monitor the risk assessment levels for your destination when planning your trip, before departure and on arrival. Follow safety measures that include wearing a mask in public, social distancing and washing your hands. If you are diagnosed with, have symptoms of or are waiting for test results for COVID-19 — or are otherwise at risk of illness — do not attend gatherings or travel for 14 days.
Boston’s known for some great whale-watching spots. But if you’re not so crazy about giant sea creatures and salty ocean breezes, find a tourist attraction that matches your interests.
Frequently asked questions
The following types of whales are commonly spotted on whale-watching tours around Boston:
Humpback whale
Finback whale
North Atlantic Right whale
Sei whale
Minke whale
You may also see sea turtles, seals, dolphins, sharks and various types of fish.
Most whale-watching tours in Boston last between three and four hours, depending on how long it takes to see the whales — and how fast the boat is.
If you don’t see any whales, most tour companies offer a free ticket for another trip. If you’re concerned about getting your money’s worth, contact the tour company in advance to inquire about its exact policy.
Amy Stoltenberg writes about lifestyle and money for Finder, researching the best options for shopping, banking, insurance and authentic travel experiences. After studying writing and fashion at Savannah College of Art and Design, she worked as a technical designer before opting for a career with unlimited travel time. She lives in Los Angeles. When her laptop's closed, you can find her wandering the streets looking for hole-in-the-wall eateries and daydreaming about her next great adventure.
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