Cape Ann is one of the most well known whale watching hubs on Boston’s North Shore, with Gloucester, Massachusetts serving as a historic departure point for some of the region’s best offshore wildlife tours you will not want to miss on your next coastal getaway.
Find your perfect vacation rental in one of the charming seaside towns, all located along Boston’s North Shore. Whale watching season fills up quickly, so book early your vacation rental early to ensure you don’t miss out on this bucket list experience.
Bucket list Goals
Whale Watching is a beautiful way to spend a few hours of your day to create memories that will last a lifetime. The World Wildlife Fund deemed Cape Ann, 40 miles north of Boston, one of the Top 5 Whale Watching Destinations in the world. With a variety of whale species roaming the deep cool waters of Cape Ann you are bound to see one of these beautiful creatures if you book a Whale Watching tour on your next Cape Ann Vacation.
How do you prepare for whale watching?
With boats departing from Gloucester Harbor, sightings often concentrated around Stellwagen Bank, and nearby coastal towns like Rockport making it easy to pair a day on the water with a classic North Shore visit. When embarking on a whale watching tour be sure to pack the essentials.
- Sweatshirt, Jacket, or Rain Jacket
- Camera
- Snacks
- Water
- Battery backup
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Sunblock
- Towel
- Phone
When is the best time for whale watching?
Spring is the start or whale watching season in Cape Ann, which generally runs from mid-April through mid-October. During the summer months the Humpbacks and Finbacks come back to these cold water coasts.
Do whales come out in the rain?
Yes! Whales don’t care if it’s raining and sometimes it helps with a sighting. Bring a raincoat on a light sprinkling day and enjoy your trip!
How close do whales get to the boat?
Most boats are within 100 – 200 yards of Pods and let the whales come to them. Whales make the choice how close they want to get. They are usually following food while eating or swimming and playing.
Whale Watching On Boston’s North Shore.
Whale Watching in Cape Ann while on vacation is a MUST DO activity and a perfect adventure for all ages or your vacation crew.
Our Local Whale Watching Recommendations:
