Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran
4.5
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Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran
By Boston Harbor City Cruises - Long Wharf
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About
On this whale-watching tour, cruise out to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary in search of humpback and fin whales, as well as Atlantic white-sided dolphins. Learn about the wildlife from a naturalist guide. The high-speed catamaran helps you save time for other vacation adventures, and you can pack light, as snacks and refreshments are available for onboard purchase.
Lowest price guarantee
Ages 0-120, max of 400 per group
Duration: 3h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English
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Highlights
- Search for whales and other wildlife on a half-day tour
- High-speed catamaran helps save time on your trip
- Naturalist guide on board informs you about the wildlife
- Choose from three outdoor decks or an climate-controlled cabin
- Pickup and drop-off at Boston’s conveniently located Central Wharf
- Boston Whale Watch Cruise aboard High-Speed Catamaran
- See a variety of whales, including Humpbacks, Finbacks, and the critically endangered Right Whales
- Visit Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds and other marine creatures
- Narrated by a New England Aquarium Naturalist as your Guide
What's not included- Gratuities
- Food and drinks (available to purchase on board)
- Make your way to the Boston’s conveniently located Central Wharf, where you’ll use your prepaid tour voucher to board a high-speed catamaran. The state-of-the-art boat allows you to access the sanctuary in just a half a day (slower boats take a full day). Find a comfortable seat on one of three outdoor decks or inside the climate-controlled cabin. As you ride, scan the Massachusetts Bay for signs of marine life. Possible sightings include humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, pilot whales, and Atlantic white-sided dolphins. A naturalist guide teaches you about the animals’ biology and behavior. Pack light for the tour, as you can purchase food and beverages from an onboard snack bar. After your tour, head back to shore.
- Start:
- Long Wharf, Boston, MA 02110, USAThe Ticket Center is located on Long Wharf, just a few steps from the Marriott Hotel. The Ticket Center has a statue of a Humpback whale on its roof. From North - Take exit 24 (Callahan Tunnel) off Route 93. Follow signs to Long Wharf Ferry Terminal. From South - From South, take exit 23 (Gov't Center/Aquarium) off Route 93. Follow signs to the Aquarium. From the East / Logan Airport - Take the Sumner Tunnel to Boston, bearing right on Cross Street. Follow signs for Route 93 South. Do not take highway (to the left), but watch for Dock Square sign (to the right). You'll see Haymarket and the Bostonian Hotel on the right. Follow the sign for Waterfront Surface Artery; Long Wharf is straight ahead on the left. Parking Parking garages are available nearby at such areas as Rowes Wharf, The Marriott Hotel, The Garage at Post Office Square, The Boston Harbor Garage, and all Quincy Market parking (within easy walking distance). Public Transport Take the MBTA Blue Line to the Aquarium station or Orange Line to the State stop.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Wheelchair accessible
- Stroller accessible
- Near public transportation
- Transportation is wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3283BWW- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- The boat is wheelchair accessible, however the restrooms are not wheelchair accessible
- Don't forget the camera, film and binoculars
- There is a galley serving food and beverages
- Wear comfortable shoes or sneakers
- Bring a light sweater or jacket
- Remember sunscreen and sunglasses
- Most travelers can participate
- 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
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 400 travelers
- All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.
- Should I make advance reservations for the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?
- Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Trips often sell out.Answered May 2021
- When should I arrive for the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?
- Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your departure time to allow for boarding.Answered May 2021
- Is parking available near the departure point for the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?
- There are two parking garages: The Harbor Garage, 70 E. India Row, Boston; and Rowes Wharf Garage, 30 Rowes Wharf, Boston. Parking fees apply at both locations.Answered May 2021
- How long is the Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Catamaran?
- 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.Answered May 2021
The tour operator has provided the following answers to customers’ questions.- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3283BWW
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About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- sydneylQ4338MK0 contributionsCool and fast way to get to SalemIf going to Salem take the ferry either there or on the way back. I recommend taking it there and then taking the train on the way back. You’ll get to see Boston from the harbor, and there’s a tour guide giving you facts about the harbor and the towns and islands you’ll pass along the way. Recommend getting there early so you can get a spot inside the ferry. We had to stand outside as there were no seats inside left, which was fine and we enjoyed it as we had unobstructed views but it was also a dreary day with a little sprinkle. If we wouldn’t have been bundled up it would have been a miserable ride.Written October 8, 2024
- ktgrdnr30 contributionsPeaceful sunset cruiseGreat views of the city skyline. I enjoyed the sunset viewing of the ship and cannon. The guide was enthusiastic and knowledgeable.Written October 7, 2024
- O2343OUjennifers0 contributionsGood experienceGreat way to get to Salem from Boston. Some history of the landmarks included. The ride (water) was a bit rough but not too bad.Written October 7, 2024
- 251abbyw0 contributionsSunset Cruise of Boston HarborThe narration was very informative! The Boston skyline at night, with a new moon rising just above it with sunset-pink tinged, contrails framing it on either side was spectacular! The suspension bridge with the sunset behind it was also very cool!Written October 7, 2024
- jennifercN746RP0 contributionsFun water trip to SalemThe captain gave a rundown of the history and pointed out different highlighted areas. It was super choppy on the water but it was a quick and fun way to get to Salem. Would highly recommend!Written October 7, 2024
- Jwhitm19540 contributionsGreat Harbor CruisePerfect way to get an overview of the history of the harbor. Everything about this tour was top notch. Our guide was knowledgeable, personable and had a great sense of humor…..kept us entertained the entire time. Beautiful weather conditions made this a trip to remember. Highly recommend!Written October 6, 2024
- 83peggyr0 contributionsFun tour!Great tour! We highly recommend this tour. Tour guide was friendly and fun. Great information about the Boston Harbor.Written October 6, 2024
- 449calliec0 contributionsBoston to SalemIt was a beautiful day for a ferry ride. Very informative and great fall inspired drinks!!! We all had a great time!!!!!!Written October 6, 2024
- Matt L0 contributionsFun way to get to Salem!Great trip and fun way to travel to Salem from Boston. They have a lot of info about Boston harbor and history on the way, and where you get off in Salem it is a short walk to the main part of town. Follow the yellow line on the ground and it takes you past all of the historical sights. We took an Uber back to town, but at least a one way trip on the ferry is a good time!Written October 6, 2024
- Z1768APdonnac0 contributionsBeautiful experienceIt was a particularly beautiful, warm October day, and the cruise made it even better! We loved hearing all the past history of the area and seeing the sights along the harbor. Worth the price!Written October 5, 2024
- jamessC2160YA0 contributionsGreat option for travel from Boston to SalemComfortable trip. Lots of seating. Friendly staff. In Salem the ferry lets out in a cute residential area that is within easy walking distance to the downtown area with lots of restaurants and tourist attraction.Written October 1, 2024
- Inspire185230488440 contributionsThe water front historyGreat tour with Mike C as our audio guide. Lots of historical stories about Boston Harbor. Definitely worth the visit and sit outside if the weather permitsWritten September 30, 2024
- lawrencer150 contributionsGreat and highly recommendedFantastic tour. Wonderful tour, guide Mike. Very informative and enjoyable in every way. We would certainly do it again and recommend to all friendsWritten September 30, 2024
- johngV8817DT0 contributionsGreat harbour tour.Enjoyable 1 hour cruise with great views of Boston Harbour and the city and bridges. Excellent engaging live commentary. I would definitely recommend.Written September 30, 2024
- Mike R0 contributions90 min HarborGreat tour. Would have liked to see it all at sunset instead of the last 1/2. But then you would not see all the things on the shoreWritten September 27, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
918 reviews
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21
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56
Sooner18
Oklahoma City, OK61 contributions
This was great! The hosts were very knowledgeable and kind. We saw a mother and calf humpback whale the entire hour that we were out. On our way back to the harbor we stopped to see a rare sunfish.
We recommend you bring snacks for the ride out because the snacks they sell are a bit pricey. Also bring some cash to be able to tip the amazing hosts at the end of the tour.
We recommend you bring snacks for the ride out because the snacks they sell are a bit pricey. Also bring some cash to be able to tip the amazing hosts at the end of the tour.
Written July 31, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stan P
4 contributions
Sep 2021 • Couples
We've done an Alaska whale watching excursion and this compared very favorably! For that one we got some advice that I'll pass on now. Do not go out expecting jumping breaches or close encounters. We saw 4 humpback whales altogether, usually from about 50 to 200 meters. They broke the surface many times and we saw numerous dives with the flukes out of the water. We saw a blue fin shark very close to the boat, although limited to just a fin above the water. And we saw a pod of at least 10 dolphins shadowing 2 of the whales. The crew was very informative and worked very hard to get us close to the action. The cruise there and back was also enjoyable. It is very windy at speed, and the temperature was cool but not too cold.
Some more advice; stake out a good spot on one side or the other and avoid running from side to side. There were equal views from each side as the action at each sighting tended to drift from one side to the other. There will be quite a crowd, and if you end up in the back of the pack running from side to side you can't see much anyway. Also, the boat tends to rock quite a bit while maneuvering for a view. Have fun and stay safe!
Some more advice; stake out a good spot on one side or the other and avoid running from side to side. There were equal views from each side as the action at each sighting tended to drift from one side to the other. There will be quite a crowd, and if you end up in the back of the pack running from side to side you can't see much anyway. Also, the boat tends to rock quite a bit while maneuvering for a view. Have fun and stay safe!
Written September 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Heather
Sparta, NJ3 contributions
Jul 2022
Amazing experience we were able to see 4 humpback whales! The crew was amazing and knowledgeable. Enjoyed them figuring out "who" the whales were and having names for them and actively studying their behavior. For the most part everyone was respectful and let the little kids to the front to see. Highly recommend because if you dont see whales they will give you a voucher to see them at another time. Don't forget to dress WARM even in 90 degree super sunny summer weather the boat is fast and the ocean air is cooler.
Written July 18, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Alex D
55 contributions
Sep 2022
Listen to the other reviewers and be wary of this operator. They do seem to cancel last minute and blame it on "rough seas" for whatever the reason. I would have been fine if they needed to cancel for mechanical or crew issues, but would have appreciated honesty. We quickly booked with another operator leaving from Plymouth, and as you can see from the pictures it was about as flat as it comes. Additionally, when they cancel for "rough seas" last minute, they conveniently make refund difficult, with obvious preference for reschedule or gift card. In the email there is a refund option/button, but it brings you to the website where it is not an option, and you have to call national city cruises and try to speak to someone to try and get a refund. As a Boston resident, I can say that Plymouth was a much more picturesque departure spot anyway for my guests, and we found Captain John's to be reliable and enjoyable unlike city cruises. Also when you call captain john's a person answers! Rather than an automated national system with city cruises. If you have a means of transportation, would recommend more reliable Captain John's from Plymouth, or a cruise outfit leaving from Salem as City Cruises seems a bit unreliable.
Written September 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kelly G
1 contribution
Aug 2023 • Family
We had an amazing experience on our tour. Everything at checkin and boarding was very smooth. The tour itself was a good mix of educational info and quiet time to enjoy the ride in and out. We were told our trip was the best they had had all season in terms of the amount of whales we were able to see and the tour guide's excitement was evident which was nice because it showed she really cared about her job. We had a great time - can't think of a single thing I would have changed. If you want a prime seat on to top deck I'd recommend going to get in line even earlier than the suggested 30 minutes prior to departure but the captain was great about making sure both sides of the boat got good views of the whales.
Written August 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lisa B
22 contributions
Gorgeous spectacles of nature!
We took the first boat out at 9 am on July 25, 2023. The trip out had a wonderful naturalist on board who shared some history and the importance of conservation for whales and marine life. Later, she would share the names of all the whales we saw.
The first spouting sighting happened about 1.5 hours in to the trip. We were excited and the naturalists on board identified 15 different whales! They said we were lucky to also see several dolphin pods traveling with the groups of whales. We were told that the whales were eating well. We saw many dives for
food so we also saw tails displayed, sometimes in pairs. One whale had her calf following behind her. The seas were calm so it made for an easy trip.
The boat was not overpacked, so it was easy to move to all sides of the boat. There is a good snack station on board with plenty of seating.
This was the most amazing trip, and we were fortunate to see whales from every side of the boat. The next time we are in Boston we will definitely go again if it is high season. This was affordable and educational.
We took the first boat out at 9 am on July 25, 2023. The trip out had a wonderful naturalist on board who shared some history and the importance of conservation for whales and marine life. Later, she would share the names of all the whales we saw.
The first spouting sighting happened about 1.5 hours in to the trip. We were excited and the naturalists on board identified 15 different whales! They said we were lucky to also see several dolphin pods traveling with the groups of whales. We were told that the whales were eating well. We saw many dives for
food so we also saw tails displayed, sometimes in pairs. One whale had her calf following behind her. The seas were calm so it made for an easy trip.
The boat was not overpacked, so it was easy to move to all sides of the boat. There is a good snack station on board with plenty of seating.
This was the most amazing trip, and we were fortunate to see whales from every side of the boat. The next time we are in Boston we will definitely go again if it is high season. This was affordable and educational.
Written July 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Katie J
Raleigh, NC4 contributions
We had such a great time and saw 12+ different humpback whales who put on an incredible show. The naturalists did a great job of pointing the whales out and explaining their behaviors. One thing to note is that there is very limited seating so you may have to stand for the entirety of the trip. I’d recommend bringing a sweater or jacket because the wind can strong and chilly as you get further out
Written September 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JPinJupiter
Jupiter, FL43 contributions
Jul 2022
Many of the other reviews capture the experience fairly well. We had a wonderful time whale-watching and saw several different humpbacks. I'd offer the following tips-
1. The boat takes you far from shore into the ocean and when the boat gets moving, the wind and temperature makes it significantly colder than on shore. We went out on a hot, sunny July day and virtually everyone who came aboard with just t-shirts and shorts ended up spending part of the time inside. Also, bring sunscreen.
2. You're better off just staying in place rather than trying to run back and forth across the boat trying to see the whales. The whales often come up for just a few seconds and can then submerge for several minutes, so the people who tried to scramble to the other side generally missed seeing whales on both sides of the boat. Occasionally, the captain would turn to allow better viewing and when the captain did, it tended to favor the starboard side. I'm not sure if this is typical or was just the case on our trip.
3. Have fun!
1. The boat takes you far from shore into the ocean and when the boat gets moving, the wind and temperature makes it significantly colder than on shore. We went out on a hot, sunny July day and virtually everyone who came aboard with just t-shirts and shorts ended up spending part of the time inside. Also, bring sunscreen.
2. You're better off just staying in place rather than trying to run back and forth across the boat trying to see the whales. The whales often come up for just a few seconds and can then submerge for several minutes, so the people who tried to scramble to the other side generally missed seeing whales on both sides of the boat. Occasionally, the captain would turn to allow better viewing and when the captain did, it tended to favor the starboard side. I'm not sure if this is typical or was just the case on our trip.
3. Have fun!
Written July 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mariadj2019
Guernsey, UK38 contributions
Oct 2019
Due to bad weather we’d had to wait a couple of days to go whale watching but boy was it worth it. As we left the harbour we got to see a lovely view of the city. During the trip there was good commentary and when we found a whale, Nile, the staff were knowledgeable about her. The boat is big and roomy so everyone got a chance to see and as Nile was so active they even turned the boat so everyone got a equal amount of good sight.
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi mariadj2019 and thanks for your review! We're so glad to hear that you enjoyed your whale watch and got to see Nile! She's one of our frequent sightings and we love her! We appreciate you taking the time to post about it and hope to see you onboard again sometime in the future.
Written March 3, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nikole W
1 contribution
Oct 2023 • Friends
Trip out to where whales were supposed to be at was cold and not enough seats for all passengers to sit. Did not see whales on this trip but they did give a rain check which has to be used by the end of December 2023. Who is going to revisit this during the winter months. Most places give a rain check with no one expiration date. I wouldn’t use this charter again. They made a large amount of money at $74 per person to give such a terrible refund.
Written October 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, Do you run this tour on December-January?
Written July 26, 2023
Do you run tours in May, and they’re all sold out? Or are they just not available for purchase right now?
Written February 22, 2023
Are there long periods of time of sitting in rough water? We have some in our party that get sea sick easily.
Written July 31, 2022
I booked the 11 o'clock cruise but could be anytime. Just be warned that there could be some days that the whales don't cooperate with being seen. It's still a really good cruise wether seeing whales or not.
Written July 28, 2022
I don’t know ! We haven’t finish the trip ! They cancelled at the middle of the ocean due to a storm ! I am waiting for TripAdvisor give me another ticket ! The boat itself is pretty safe for children ! I recommend
Written June 5, 2022
How do I move my reservation from4/03 to 5/01?
Written March 14, 2022
I bought my tickets for the wrong day. I did not realize the computer flipped the calendar. How do I reschedule my trip?
Written March 14, 2022
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