Whale Watches

If you love the ocean, being out on a boat and getting the chance to see a number of whale species just a few feet in front of you, a whale watch is definitely something awesome to do in New England. There are also various places that you can participate in a whale watch which is great because it is not just limited to one state. Just a few of the states include Maine, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

New England has a lot of history with whaling. Whales are now valued in New England for their sheer majesty, but whale hunting was once a major industry in the colonies. During the 18th and 19th century, whaling was a lucrative business with whale oils used for lighting and whalebone used for various other products. Hundreds of ships left New England harbors each year on dangerous whaling expeditions that sometimes took them all around the world.

The ocean waters off New England offer one of the best places in the world for a whale watch tour.
In warmer months, many species of whales including Humpback, Finback, and Right whales migrate to the feeding grounds off  of the New England coast to feast on mackerel, herring, krill and other small species of fish. There is nothing quite like heading out to sea on a whale watch tour to observe the world’s largest creatures feeding or playing up close. Some days, lucky observers will see the theatrical Humpback whales breeching (jumping) right in front of the boat or feeding in large groups.
I went on a whale watch in Wellfleet Cape Cod about two years ago and I was lucky enough to see one humpback whale and two finbacks!

Whale watching tours are offered all along the New England coast  from May through October. Most take 3-4 hours, but some are a bit shorter. It is important to remember to wear the correct clothing and to bring everything you may need for your upcoming adventure! Be sure to bring a camera, sunscreen and extra clothes since even on hot days the wind makes traveling on the boat very cold. Also be sure to wear closed toe shoes, preferably sneakers. Those who get motion sick easily should bring medicine with them as well. Whale watches are a unique experience and very fun!  I would recommend them to anyone.