Top-Rated Whale Watching Tours on Cape Cod…
As one of the world’s top 10 whale watching destinations, Cape Cod brings in travelers from all over the world, and you can observe these endangered species migrating through our waters. Frederick William House Bed & Breakfast provides a stay centrally located on Cape Cod that will get you close to any of the hot whale watching spots and tours. Those ideal accommodations are located at 594 Palmer Avenue in Falmouth Ma. Whether you are an international traveler or a domestic one, you will be able to see Humpback, Finback, Minke whales and several dolphin species. There are even related seal tours that focus specifically on seals…but today we will focus on the giants of the ocean. Click here to book a stay to see these ocean giants today.
By Jeanette Robinson
April 24, 2024
From mid-April through October, Cape Cod, Massachusetts, one of New England’s hottest vacation destinations, plays host to several whale species. For a memorable whale watching experience in Cape Cod, consider one of these tour companies, rated by experts and travelers alike as the best available. Many of the tours will travel to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which sits about 25 miles off the Massachusetts coast and serves as an important feeding ground for whales.
1. Captain John Boats Whale Watching on Cape Cod
Price: Adults $70 to $73; kids $45 to $53
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Embark on a whale watching excursion with Captain John Boats departing from either Plymouth or Provincetown. The Plymouth tour explores Cape Cod Bay and Stellwagen Bank to observe different whale species, while the Provincetown tour sets off from Macmillan Wharf to encounter right and pilot whales, among others. In the event no whales are sighted, you are welcome to join another tour at no additional cost. Visitors praise the educational experience about whales, sighting both adult whales and calves, as well as dolphins.
Plymouth tours generally run once a day early and late in the season, and twice daily at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. June through August. The Provincetown tour is only available in July and August Monday through Friday at 12:30 p.m. Captain John Boats also operates a few cruises on its paddlewheel boat, the Pilgrim Belle.
Phone: 508-556-1426
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2. Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises – Barnstable
Price: Adults from $75; kids from $55
Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours
Since 1980, this company has been providing whale watching tours from Barnstable Harbor to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary on a specially designed boat for whale watching and maneuvering. The boat offers three viewing levels with bench seating, and each trip is accompanied by a naturalist for educational commentary. Customers praise the abundance of whale sightings and commend the captain's expertise in positioning the boat for optimal viewing. Tours commonly include sightings of minke, humpback, and finback whales.
The company offers tours once or twice daily, depending on the month, at varying times between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Whale watching tours are available from May through early November. The company also offers chartered cruises.
Phone: 800-287-0374
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3. Dolphin Fleet – Whale Watch
Price: Adults from $75; kids from $50
Duration: 3 to 4 hours
Despite its name, Dolphin Fleet primarily focuses on whale watching. Departing from Provincetown, Massachusetts, the closest port to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, the company frequently encounters whales shortly after setting sail. On the cruise, a knowledgeable naturalist assists passengers in identifying whales, dolphins, and sea birds. Visitors often witness numerous whales and praise the informative guides. The vessel features two decks, an indoor cabin with heating and air conditioning, and a wealth of educational resources. In the event of no whale sightings, guests have the option to join another tour.
Tours, which depart from Provincetown's MacMillan Pier, run mid-April through October at multiple times throughout the day, depending on the month and season.
Phone: 508-240-3636
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is whale watching season in Cape Cod?
The whale watching season in Cape Cod spans from mid-April to October.
What should I wear for whale watching in Cape Cod?
It is important to dress in layers and have a lightly insulated jacket with you when out on the water, as temperatures can drop by 10 to 15 degrees. Even during the summer, staying warm is essential. For safety on the ship deck, it is recommended to wear sneakers or rubber-soled shoes. Additionally, sunglasses and sunscreen are necessary for protection from the sun. If you choose to wear a hat, keep in mind that it may be challenging to keep it on your head in windy conditions.
What time of day is best for whale watching?
Whale watching does not have a specific ideal time of day since whales' behaviors vary daily. Typically, tour companies provide morning and afternoon whale watching excursions lasting three to four hours.
How much does it cost to go whale watching in Cape Cod?
Prices may differ depending on the specific tours or travel companies. Anticipate spending a minimum of $50 to $75.
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