What is the best time of day to see whales in Boston Harbor?

Anytime from early May through October we can have great sightings. Luckily, Gloucester is located between two feeding grounds, so we can get to wherever the whales are. Morning or afternoon does not seem to make much difference. Mornings are generally less crowded though.



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Any time of day is best for whale watching Cape Cod adventures because these creatures are active all the time. Despite that, most boat companies only offer morning and early afternoon tours because they typically last for three to four hours. Keep in mind that offshore water conditions can affect your journey.

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Yes, you can see whales from land in both Cape Cod and Boston. Cape Cod, especially Provincetown and Cape Cod National Seashore, offers good opportunities for whale watching from the coastline.

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When is the best time to see the whales? Anytime from early May through October we can have great sightings. Luckily, Gloucester is located between two feeding grounds, so we can get to wherever the whales are. Morning or afternoon does not seem to make much difference.

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Whales are generally most active in the morning and late afternoon, making these the best times to spot them. During the morning, whales tend to be more active as they start their day and may feed. As the day progresses and the sun sets, whales become more active as they prepare to rest for the night.

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While most outfits guarantee a 90 percent chance of a spotting a whale, you might consider booking an extra trip if it's at the top of your bucket list. Some companies offer a complimentary outing if your trip ends sans sighting—check out the policy before booking.

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A whale-watching cruise with no whale sightings is extremely rare, especially between May and October. During that time, it's almost guaranteed you'll see whales—but even you don't, it's still an amazing chance to look for other marine creatures, such as harbor seals, Atlantic white-sided dolphins, and sea birds.

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Depending on the season, the weather could be cold and breezy when you are out on the ocean. In the summer months, bring a jacket, sweater, or hoodie. In April through November, you will likely want a winter coat, a hat (that won't blow off!), and gloves.

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Ask anyone from the North Shore and Cape Ann region, and they'll tell you that Gloucester MA whale watching can't be beat. Folks who live in the big city will likely say that whale watching in Boston MA is the best. Of course, I'm partial to Cape Cod whale watching because it's right here in my home waters.

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More Whale Watching Destinations in the US
  • Malibu CA (Grey Feb-Apr)
  • Myrtle Beach SC (Humpback, Pygmy Sperm, Right, Nov-Apr)
  • Newport Beach CA (Blue May-Nov, Finback, Gray Dec-Apr, Humback, Minke, Year-Round)
  • Waianae, Oahu HI (Dec-May)
  • Provincetown MA (Humpback, Fin, Minke, Pilot, Sei, Right, May-Oct)


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If you're visiting Boston during the summer, going whale-watching is one of the top things to see and do. Spotting a whale in its natural habitat is an unforgettable experience; you may even get lucky and see breaching whales or other fun behaviors.

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The best destinations in the world for whale watching
  • Baja California Sur, Mexico. ...
  • Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa. ...
  • Hudson Bay, Manitoba, Canada. ...
  • St Lawrence Marine Park, Saguenay, Quebec, Canada. ...
  • St. ...
  • Mirissa, Sri Lanka. ...
  • Kaikoura, South Island, New Zealand. ...
  • North Cape Cod, Massachusetts, USA.


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