Sightseeing Cruises

Boston Whale Watching Cruise by New England Aquarium

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.

Duration

3 hr 30 min

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

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

4.5/5

(140)

Maria

Sep 2025

Verified booking

5/5

First the crew is amazing, I had my Mom with me and she uses a walker, letting her go on first and making sure she was comfortable meant the world to me and her. The experience was unbelievable, we saw a pair of whales and one of them turned and turned flapping the water , we also one of the feeding!! We were told it was a female whale and she kept her mouth open for at least a minute so all the seagulls were going in and out of her mouth trying to catch the fish!! The crew said this was something very unusual to see and that we were very fortunate

Paul

Sep 2025

Verified booking

5/5

We saw a shark dolphins and two whales. The naturalist explained that it was unusual for two whales to be working together this time of year. She identified the whales by the markings under their tail. Each time the whales dived she enlightened us with whale facts. Then on the way back to Boston she greeted each of us individually and asked if we had questions.

Simona

Sep 2025

Verified booking

5/5

My daughter and I loved the guide explaining about whales and their habitat. We liked the cruise as we saw Boston from the sea. And, of course, we were impressed by the whales, even if we didn't see them closer. However, we were impressed by the beauty of their movements.

Set sail on a 3 to 4-hour whale watching cruise, led by naturalists from the New England Aquarium—one of the world’s leading marine conservation and research institutions.

Spot varieties—humpback, fin, & minke whales and even dolphins, all in their natural habitats at Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary.

Step out onto the spacious outdoor viewing decks or sit comfortably inside, taking in panoramic views through large glass windows.

Ask the expert naturalists questions you may have about all that you see—marine life, their behaviours, and habitats.

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

Food & beverages from the snack bar

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

4.5
140 reviews
How do we collect reviews?
These ratings include verified reviews from both Headout guests and our trusted partners who operate this experience locally. All reviews come from real travelers who've taken this experience.
112
8
5
2
13
Guests from United Kingdom, Canada, Germany and over 10 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Tracey
Oct 2025
Verified booking
5/5
This was a great trip! We saw whales and they were wonderful, but also it was lovely being out on the water. The naturalist was fabulous with the information she provided. I highly recommend this tour.
Patricio
Oct 2025
Verified booking
5/5
The crew members very professional. We had a very enjoyable family time with all the views around us and of course the whale's watch.
Wayne
Oct 2025
Verified booking
5/5
My wife & I joined the New Engalnd Aquarium Whale Watch to experience the majestic whales that frequent the Stelleagen Bank National Mairne Sanctuary at this time of the year, mainly feeding before migrating to warmer waters. From booking and boarding to cruising out toward the whale grounds, the entire experience was seamless and beautifully organised. We were impressed by the skill and professionaism of the crew, as well as the stunning views of the Boston coastline along the way. Within an hour of departure, excitement filled the air as we spotted at least three humpback whales. Watching them breach the water and crash down with their enormous tails was absolutely mesmeriizing. The calm, informative, and engaging narration of the on-board naturalist added depth and understanding to every moment, making the experience truly unforgettable, one we will certainly do again! Unfortunately, a medical emergency occurred onboard, requiring us to return to shore earlier than planned. Despite the urgency, the captain and crew handled the situation with exceptional professionalism and care. They prioritized the passenger's well-being, coordinated smoothly with emergency services, and ensured everything was managed safely and efficiently. The Aquarium's customer service was equally impressive, offering everyone the choice of a refund or the opportunity to join another trip. This thoughtful gesture reflected the organisation's committment to guest satisfaction and safety. Truly professional and outstanding service all round. Well done to everyone involved. Wayne & Janice Hill
Sherri
Oct 2025
Verified booking
5/5
This experience was so much more than I expected. We saw 4 humpback whales and a few seals. The crew was exceptional, kind, funny and knowledgeable. We absolutely loved it!
Michael
Oct 2025
Verified booking
5/5
A perfect way to experience the New England culture. Very professional staff, information on whaling was exceptional and the boat ride was very relaxing.

Getting started

Meet your crew at the boarding point mentioned on your ticket. After a quick security scan, head to the high-speed catamaran. Departure is from One Long Wharf, located between the Long Wharf Marriott Hotel and the New England Aquarium.

What to expect

Enjoy the luxuries of the boat—spacious outdoor observation decks and climate-controlled indoor cabins furnished with big windows, cushioned seats, tables, state-of-the-art audio and video systems, and a snack counter where you can purchase snacks and drinks.

Features

Live guide: The tour is led by a naturalist from the New England Aquarium, who will answer all your (relevant) questions and help you better understand & appreciate the marine ecosystem.

Boston harbor views: As you speed across the Massachusetts coastal waters, you can spot landmarks such as Castle Island and Boston Harbor Islands National and State Park before reaching your destination—Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary.

Marine life: Spot a variety of whales such as humpback, fin, and minke whales; white-sided dolphins, and more. The sanctuary is a rich feeding ground for marine life.

What to bring

Visitors who are prone to motion sickness are advised to take medication before boarding the boat.

What's not allowed

Smoking is strictly prohibited.

Accessibility

The cruise is wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

Infant tickets must be purchased onboard.

If you're prone to motion sickness, we recommend taking preventive medication before boarding to ensure a comfortable experience.

The cruise timings may vary due to the unpredictability of sightings, so be prepared to accommodate any delays.

Food and beverages are available for purchase onboard.

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point

Please arrive at the boarding point 30 mins before the scheduled time of your cruise to avoid any delays.

Boarding point

Board your cruise at Boston Harbor City Cruises - Long Wharf.

Address: 1 Long Wharf, Boston, MA 02210.

Landmark: Located between the Long Wharf Marriott Hotel and the New England Aquarium.

Get directions to the boarding point