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Boston Whale Watching Tours

4.5(164)

Panoramic, Open-top views

Frequent departures

Audioguide & Commentary available

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Catamaran docked at New England Aquarium for whale watching cruise.

Guests enjoying a whale watching cruise on an England Aquarium tour.

Guides on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise pointing at sea.

Humpback whale breaching in ocean waters.

Dolphins swimming in the ocean during England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Guests watching a whale tail on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Guests observing ocean on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Guide interacting with guests on a whale watching cruise, ocean in the background.

Guests boarding New England Aquarium Whale Watch catamaran in Boston.

Boston downtown waterfront skyline with sailboats on the harbor.

Catamaran docked at New England Aquarium for whale watching cruise.

Guests enjoying a whale watching cruise on an England Aquarium tour.

Guides on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise pointing at sea.

Humpback whale breaching in ocean waters.

Dolphins swimming in the ocean during England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Guests watching a whale tail on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Guests observing ocean on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Guide interacting with guests on a whale watching cruise, ocean in the background.

Guests boarding New England Aquarium Whale Watch catamaran in Boston.

Boston downtown waterfront skyline with sailboats on the harbor.

Catamaran docked at New England Aquarium for whale watching cruise.

Guests enjoying a whale watching cruise on an England Aquarium tour.

Guides on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise pointing at sea.

Humpback whale breaching in ocean waters.

Dolphins swimming in the ocean during England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Guests watching a whale tail on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Guests observing ocean on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Guide interacting with guests on a whale watching cruise, ocean in the background.

Guests boarding New England Aquarium Whale Watch catamaran in Boston.

Boston downtown waterfront skyline with sailboats on the harbor.

4.4(144)

Boston Whale Watching Cruise by New England Aquarium

from

$85.58

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

3 hr 30 min

Spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitats on a guided cruise that goes beyond the typical sightseeing.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 3–4 hour scenic cruise aboard a large, stable catamaran with indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds at a protected marine sanctuary, with expert narration from naturalists. Sit comfortably in climate-controlled cabins and soak up incredible ocean views.
Why choose this: Led by New England Aquarium naturalists, the cruise offers your best chance to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitats—and learn about them, too.

Spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitats on a guided cruise that goes beyond the typical sightseeing.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 3–4 hour scenic cruise aboard a large, stable catamaran with indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds at a protected marine sanctuary, with expert narration from naturalists. Sit comfortably in climate-controlled cabins and soak up incredible ocean views.
Why choose this: Led by New England Aquarium naturalists, the cruise offers your best chance to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitats—and learn about them, too.

Inclusions

3 to 4 hour cruise
Knowledgeable naturalist from the New England Aquarium on board
Comfortable high-speed catamaran with outdoor observation decks
Climate-controlled cabin with large windows
Cushioned seats
State-of-the-art audio and video systems

Exclusions

Food & beverages from the snack bar

What to bring

If you’re sensitive to motion sickness, it’s a good idea to take preventive medication before the cruise to ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride.

What's not allowed

Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on the vessel.

Accessibility

The cruise is fully accessible for guests using wheelchairs.

Additional information

Tickets for infants can be bought directly on the boat.
For those prone to seasickness, taking motion sickness medication ahead of time is recommended for a more comfortable journey.
Cruise schedules may shift slightly depending on wildlife activity and sighting times, so a bit of flexibility is appreciated.
Snacks and drinks are available for purchase during the trip.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Frederick L Nolan Jr boat docked at Boston Harbor with historic buildings in the background

Guests enjoying the view of Boston skyline on a historic harbor cruise.

Boston Harbor waterfront skyline with historic and modern buildings.

Bunker Hill Monument viewed from the harbor with historic brick buildings in Boston.

Tourists photographing the USS Constitution in Boston Harbor.

Boston Harbor with sailboats and city skyline in the background.

Guests enjoying the Historic Boston Harbor Cruise with a view of the USS Constitution.

Frederick L Nolan Jr boat docked at Boston Harbor with historic buildings in the background

Guests enjoying the view of Boston skyline on a historic harbor cruise.

Boston Harbor waterfront skyline with historic and modern buildings.

Bunker Hill Monument viewed from the harbor with historic brick buildings in Boston.

Tourists photographing the USS Constitution in Boston Harbor.

Boston Harbor with sailboats and city skyline in the background.

Guests enjoying the Historic Boston Harbor Cruise with a view of the USS Constitution.

Frederick L Nolan Jr boat docked at Boston Harbor with historic buildings in the background

Guests enjoying the view of Boston skyline on a historic harbor cruise.

Boston Harbor waterfront skyline with historic and modern buildings.

Bunker Hill Monument viewed from the harbor with historic brick buildings in Boston.

Tourists photographing the USS Constitution in Boston Harbor.

Boston Harbor with sailboats and city skyline in the background.

Guests enjoying the Historic Boston Harbor Cruise with a view of the USS Constitution.

NEW

Historic Boston Harbor Cruise

from

$46

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

1 hr

Guided tour

Meals included

Itinerary

TOTAL DURATION60 minutes

FREQUENCYFive times a day, between 10am—4pm

MODE OF TRANSFERBoat

1 Boarding point

1 Long Wharf

Get direction

Sights covered

Bunker Hill Monument

Bunker Hill Monument

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park

USS Constitution

USS Constitution

Old North Church

Old North Church

South Boston

Sail past some of Boston's historic landmarks on this guided sightseeing cruise.

Everything you get: Enjoy a one-hour scenic sightseeing cruise around the iconic Boston Harbor aboard a spacious boat with comfortable indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Spot historic landmarks along the city's skyline, including the USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Monument, as your expert guide regales you with heroic tales of war and local legends.
Why choose this: A guided sightseeing cruise of Boston Harbor is a great way to see the city's historic landmarks and learn about them. It's especially recommended if you're short on time.

Sail past some of Boston's historic landmarks on this guided sightseeing cruise.

Everything you get: Enjoy a one-hour scenic sightseeing cruise around the iconic Boston Harbor aboard a spacious boat with comfortable indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Spot historic landmarks along the city's skyline, including the USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Monument, as your expert guide regales you with heroic tales of war and local legends.
Why choose this: A guided sightseeing cruise of Boston Harbor is a great way to see the city's historic landmarks and learn about them. It's especially recommended if you're short on time.

Inclusions

1-hour Harbor cruise
Knowledgeable guide
Outdoor observation decks
Indoor viewing areas with large windows

Exclusions

Food & beverages

While infant entry is free, make sure to select the free infant ticket option at checkout.
The boat is wheelchair accessible.
Food & drinks are available for purchase onboard.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure time.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Boston skyline at sunset with boats on the water.

Guests enjoying Boston skyline on sunset cruise.

Custom House Tower in Boston at sunset with surrounding buildings.

USS Constitution docked in Boston with American flag and cityscape in the background.

Boston Harbor and Financial District skyline at sunset, Massachusetts, USA.

Guests enjoying a Boston sunset cruise with city skyline in the background.

Boston downtown skyscrapers at sunset viewed from the waterfront.

Boston skyline at sunset with boats on the water.

Guests enjoying Boston skyline on sunset cruise.

Custom House Tower in Boston at sunset with surrounding buildings.

USS Constitution docked in Boston with American flag and cityscape in the background.

Boston Harbor and Financial District skyline at sunset, Massachusetts, USA.

Guests enjoying a Boston sunset cruise with city skyline in the background.

Boston downtown skyscrapers at sunset viewed from the waterfront.

Boston skyline at sunset with boats on the water.

Guests enjoying Boston skyline on sunset cruise.

Custom House Tower in Boston at sunset with surrounding buildings.

USS Constitution docked in Boston with American flag and cityscape in the background.

Boston Harbor and Financial District skyline at sunset, Massachusetts, USA.

Guests enjoying a Boston sunset cruise with city skyline in the background.

Boston downtown skyscrapers at sunset viewed from the waterfront.

4.7(17)

Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise

from

$56.35

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

1 hr 30 min

Guided tour

Meals included

Itinerary

TOTAL DURATION90 minutes

FREQUENCYOnce a day

MODE OF TRANSFERBoat

1 Boarding point

Boston Harbor City Cruises - Long Wharf

Get direction

Sights covered

Custom House Tower

Custom House Tower

South Boston

Castle Island

Boston Logan International Airport

Boston Logan International Airport

East Boston

USS Constitution

USS Constitution

North End, Boston

North End, Boston

Old North Church

Old North Church

Witness the USS Constitution's sunset ceremony on a guided cruise of the Boston Harbor.

Everything you get: Witness the Boston skies turn vibrant orange as you cruise along the iconic Boston Harbor aboard a spacious boat with outdoor decks and indoor seating. Led by a local English-speaking guide, hear engaging stories about the harbor’s rich past and present. Get an up-close view of the USS Constitution’s sunset ceremony, including the traditional cannon salute that marks the end of the day.
Why choose this: This is a wholesome Boston Harbor experience that combines sightseeing, expert storytelling, and witnessing the USS Constitution's sunset ceremony.

Witness the USS Constitution's sunset ceremony on a guided cruise of the Boston Harbor.

Everything you get: Witness the Boston skies turn vibrant orange as you cruise along the iconic Boston Harbor aboard a spacious boat with outdoor decks and indoor seating. Led by a local English-speaking guide, hear engaging stories about the harbor’s rich past and present. Get an up-close view of the USS Constitution’s sunset ceremony, including the traditional cannon salute that marks the end of the day.
Why choose this: This is a wholesome Boston Harbor experience that combines sightseeing, expert storytelling, and witnessing the USS Constitution's sunset ceremony.

Inclusions

90-minute sunset cruise
Knowledgeable guide
Outdoor observation decks
Indoor viewing areas with large windows

Exclusions

Food & drinks

The boat is wheelchair accessible.
Food & beverages are available for purchase onboard.
Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure time.
The dress code is casual attire—avoid athleisure, swimwear, and flip-flops.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Boston Whale Watching Cruises

Looking to see whales up close? Boston’s whale watching cruise is one of the best ways to experience marine life in New England. These cruises take you to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground where you’re likely to spot humpback, finback, and minke whales—sometimes even dolphins and sea birds.

This guide will help you choose and plan the most suitable cruise. Read on!

Sail through this Boston whale watching tour guide

Why go on a Boston whale watching tour
Things to know before booking your Boston whale watching tour
Find your ideal cruise
What you’ll see on the cruise
Plan your visit
Checklist for a hassle-free boarding experience
Frequently asked questions about the Boston whale watching tour

Why go on a Boston whale watching tour

Guests observing whales from a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Dolphins swimming near a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Guide with guests observing whales on a cruise

Guests observing whales from a boat on an England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise.

Boston Harbor with skyline view of Financial District, Massachusetts, USA.

Humpback whale breaching

1/6

Spot majestic whales in their natural habitat

This cruise is your best shot at seeing humpback, finback, and minke whales in the wild. Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, just 25 miles off Boston’s coast, is a rich feeding ground that draws these giants from April to October—making it one of the top whale-watching spots worldwide.

Highlights of your whale watching experience

Catamaran on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise with passengers observing marine life.

✔️ High-speed catamarans

England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise with guides observing whales in the ocean.

✔️ Professional, knowledgeable naturalists on board

A person looking at a whale breaching the surface of the ocean

✔️ Sightings guaranteed and scenic views

Guests observing whales from a boat on England Aquarium Whale Watching Cruise

✔️ Outdoor viewing decks and indoor spaces with large windows

Things to know before booking your Boston whale watching tour

Whale watching tours are one of the top activities in Boston, drawing over a million visitors every year. You’ll make your way to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds, and other marine creatures.
Whale sightings and scenic views are guaranteed on your tour.
Whale watching season runs from May to October, with peak sightings during the summer. An onboard expert helps spot and explain the behavior of humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes.
To dive deep into Boston's history, you can choose a Historic sightseeing cruises, where the guide shares fascinating insights about each landmark.
Want to witness history unfold? On the Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise, you can witness the USS Constitution's sunset ceremony, complete with the cannon firing.

Find your ideal cruise

Cruise type

Why choose this?

Duration

Timings

Best for

Recommended tour

Whale watching

Experience majestic whales in their natural habitat at Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary.

3—4 hours

Apr—Oct, daily between 10am—3:30pm

Nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers

Boston Whale Watching Cruise

Sightseeing

Narrated tour showcasing Boston's historic landmarks from the harbor.

1 hour

Daily, between 10am—5pm

First-time visitors and history buffs

Historic Boston Harbor Cruise

Sunset sightseeing

Relaxing evening cruise with an up-close view of the USS Constitution’s sunset ceremonies.

1.5 hours

Daily, at 7pm

Romantic outings and sunset lovers

Boston Harbor Sunset Cruise

What you’ll see on your tour

Humpback whale breaching ocean surface

Humpback whales

Known for their acrobatic breaches and haunting songs, humpbacks are a highlight of the cruise, often seen feeding and playing in the sanctuary's rich waters.

A whale's tail and seabirds on the surface of the ocea

Minke Whale spotted during Whale Watching Tour

North Atlantic right whales swimming

Dolphins Swimming in the ocean

Harbor seal swimming underwater

Boston Harbor cruise ships docked at Long Wharf with city skyline in the background.

Tourists photographing the USS Constitution in Boston Harbor.

Bunker Hill Monument viewed from Boston Harbor with sailboats in the foreground.

See all photos

Plan your visit

Location

Timings

Best time to go

Facilities

Rules & regulations

Visitor tips

Man sitting inside the Subway

All cruises depart from Long Wharf, a historic waterfront pier.
Find on Maps

How to get here?

Blue line subway: It connects to the Aquarium station, which is a 6-minute walk to the pier.
By MBTA: The ferry connects Hingham and Hull ferry to Long Wharf.
From Logan Airport: Take the Route 66 On-Airport Shuttle to the Water Transportation Dock and then hop on the Hingham/Hull ferry.
By car: Paid parking facilities are available nearby, starting at $28 per hour.

Whale watching cruise: The first boat departs at 10am, and the duration can vary from 3—4 hours.
Sightseeing cruise: The first boat departs at 10am and the duration is for 1 hour.
Sunset cruise: The boat departs at 7pm and the duration is 90 minutes.

Guests boarding a catamaran on the Whale watching cruise

Whale watching cruises are seasonal, with peak sightings from May—October. Morning departures are ideal for calmer seas, fewer crowds, and better visibility—making for a more enjoyable experience.
Sightseeing cruises are best from April through October, when the weather is pleasant and visibility is good. Late morning to early afternoon (10am to 2pm) offers the best lighting for photos and views.
Sunset cruises are best from late spring to early fall (May–September), with sailings timed to catch the sunset and flag-lowering ceremony.

Modern washroom facilities with sinks and mirrors in a tourist attraction.

High-speed catamarans with climate-controlled indoor cabins for the whale watching cruises; comfortable boats with outdoor and indoor decks for the sightseeing cruises.
Clean and accessible restrooms onboard, designed to support guests with limited mobility.
Full-service bars serving beverages and snacks; outside food and beverages are not allowed.
Basic Wi-Fi connectivity is available, although signal strength may vary offshore.
Wheelchair accessibility includes boarding ramps and indoor seating; outdoor decks may have limited access.

A whale's tail breaching the surface on the ocean

Follow crew instructions—especially while boarding and disembarking.
Maintain distance from wildlife and avoid behaviors that may distress them.
Carrying beverages from outside, pets, and fireworks are prohibited on the boats.

Deli sandwich with layers of meat, cheese, and vegetables on a wooden board.

Carry binoculars since most whales appear at a distance from your boat.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, sit on the lower deck, near the boat’s centre, where there is less movement.
The cruise will take approximately four hours—plan at least half a day for the tour. Carry snacks—it’s going to be a long day.
If you manage to snag a prime photo shooting spot, stay there.
Stand near one of the onboard speakers to better hear the naturalist.
Carry an extra pair of clothes, in case the waves drench you.

Checklist for a hassle-free boarding experience

Arrive early: Reach your boarding pier at least 15 minutes before departure time—the cruise will leave at the scheduled time.
Precautionary measures: Guests who are prone to motion sickness are advised to take medication at least one hour before departure time.
Keep your documents handy: Keep your ticket or QR code ready, with a valid ID proof.
Stay alert: Listen to crew instructions, especially during boarding and marine life encounters.
Ask for assistance: Be it with accessibility or understanding the rules of your cruise type.

Things to do after your whale watching tour

Visitors enjoying panoramic views from View Boston observation deck.

View Boston

Get a 360° view of the city from the Prudential Tower’s observation deck, with interactive exhibits and rooftop experiences showcasing Boston’s skyline and history.

Book your tickets

Boston sightseeing bus with Boston skyline in background

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours

Explore Boston at your own pace with hop-on hop-off bus tours that stop at major attractions like Fenway Park, Quincy Market, and the Freedom Trail.

Book your tickets

Frequently asked questions about Boston whale watching tours

When is peak whale season?

Mid-April to October is the best time. Peak sightings usually happen between June and September when humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes are most active.

Are sightings guaranteed?

Sightings are very likely, but not guaranteed. Operators offer a free return ticket if no whales are spotted.

Are Boston cruises kid-friendly?

Yes, they are. Whale watching and sightseeing cruises are great for kids—an educational experience and comfortable travel.

What if I get seasick on my cruise?

If you’re prone to motion sickness, take medication 30–60 minutes before boarding. Boats move fast, and the water can be choppy.

Is there a dress code?

No dress code, but it’s best to dress in layers. It can be cooler on the water even in summer.

Can I feed the whales?

No. Feeding or touching marine life is strictly prohibited for safety and environmental reasons.

Will I spot whales on my sightseeing cruise?

No. Sightseeing cruises stay within Boston Harbor and don’t go far enough offshore to reach whale feeding grounds.

Will I spot landmarks on my whale watching tour?

Maybe just a few while departing Boston, but the tour focuses on marine life, not the harbor's historic sights.