Where to go · WHALE WATCHING CRUISES IN THE USA
The season here is short and the good boats fill first. Below: the 15 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
See humpback, fin, and minke whales from Boston Harbor with New England Aquarium naturalists, outdoor decks, and comfortable indoor seating.
“Absolutely brilliant- whales breaching for fun all around! Basking shark following our boat for ages and highly informative guide. Best tour we have been on!”
Review of Boston’s 3.5-hour high-speed whale watch to Stellwagen Bank, with practical advice on sightings, comfort, weather, price, and booking.
“The whale watching tour was okay but not really worth the money. While we did see some whales, there were way too many people on board, which made it hard to get a good view. The constant movement of people going in and out from the deck to indoors was also a bit frustrating. That said, the guide was very knowledgeable and shared a lot of great information about the wildlife”
Sail San Diego’s historic America replica for a four-hour whale cruise with gray whales, dolphins, Navy sights, snacks, and free rebooking.
“Very professional crew. Grandson helped hoist the sails! Saw a few whales and lots of dolphins. Dress warmly! Blankets, soft drinks, snacks (chips, etc.) provided. Bring some lunch.”
Review of San Diego’s 2 to 3 hour whale and dolphin cruise, with practical advice on sightings, parking, clothing, cost, and value.
“It was a beautiful tour. We saw tons of dolphins but no whales. Would recommend this tour to everyone.”
Review the Newport Beach whale-watching cruise, with wildlife odds, boat choices, route highlights, parking tips, value, and what to pack.
“it hit or miss is whether you’re going to actually see any whales or dolphins. I was fortunate. I was able to see two humpback whales that put on quite a show.”
Review of Sea Maui’s two-hour Ka’anapali whale-watching cruise, with naturalist commentary, open bar, snacks, parking, and practical tips.
“This was so much fun! The whale watching was incredible and the crew members were so knowledgeable and a BLAST! Would definitely recommend!!”
Review of Juneau’s 4-hour whale watching cruise, with three hours on the water, glacier views, wildlife, shuttle pickup, and practical tips.
“Loved it! The captain Dalton and naturalists Tessa and Cora were fantastic! Lots of good information, really knowledgeable. Saw whales! And a good variety of other animals and beautiful vistas. I would highly recommend and would absolutely go out with them again! I also loved that they shared the photosthat they took at the end, so I could spend more time watching with my eyes and still have some amazing photos from the experience! 😍😍😍”
Review the Cape May whale and dolphin cruise, with practical tips on wildlife sightings, boat comfort, parking, price, and what to expect.
“Even though there were whale sightings in the area,we didn't get to see any.... However we did manage to see a good number of dolphins, Excellent experience would definitely recommend if visiting the area”
Review of San Diego’s 3.5-hour whale-watching cruise, with practical tips on sightings, seating, weather, price, and what to expect.
“Unfortunately no whales but the cruise was lovely. Nice large boat with plenty of room to walk around and see the views.”
Review of Monterey’s 3-hour sunset whale-watching cruise, with guide, wildlife sightings, practical tips, pricing, weather advice, and FAQs.
“An excellent day - great sightings of whales, porpoises, and sea lions.”
Review of Maui’s sunset dinner cruise and whale watch, with a four-course meal, drinks, naturalist commentary, ocean views, and practical tips.
“Saw whales but always seemed to be extremely far away from them. The food was cold and not edible. Drinks were very watered down. The servers were friendly and nice.”
Review of Long Beach’s $45 whale and dolphin cruise, with wildlife odds, boat comfort, itinerary, value, tips, and practical details.
“We saw several whales but the pinnacle of our trip was the giant pod of dolphins who surrounded the boat and entertained us.”
Review of Juneau’s 3-hour whale-watching cruise, with humpbacks, orcas, sea lions, snacks, scenic views, and practical booking advice.
“Captain Perry and Rio were awesome! The boat ride was very smooth and informative! We saw quite a few whales and sea lions!”
Review the Newport Beach whale and dolphin cruise, with wildlife odds, route details, parking advice, seasonal tips, and honest value.
“It was awesome! Saw hundreds of dolphins following our boat for about 30 minutes straight. Did not see a whale but we saw a bunch of sea lions as well. Super fun.”
Review of Seattle’s whale watching cruise, with orca sightings, wildlife, onboard naturalists, practical tips, costs, and honest drawbacks.
“Not only did we see Orca, we saw a family pod of Biggs Transients. We even got to see them hunt! Our captains, support staff, and naturalist guide were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable. 10/10 would go again!”
Pick a coast, a season or a boat.
