Situated along the Massachusetts coastline, Cape Cod Bay is renowned for its diverse whale population, making whale watching a premier activity in the area. Observing the majestic breaching of whales is a highlight, and while shore sightings are possible, embarking on a boat tour enhances the experience, allowing for an intimate glimpse of these gentle giants. This guide is crafted to help you maximize your whale watching on Cape Cod adventure.

History of Whale Watching in Cape Cod Bay

Whales have been a significant part of the history of Cape Cod, with their abundance in nearby waters leading to a thriving whaling industry. This activity — aimed at harvesting whale parts for use in various products — once fueled the economic surge of the Cape with expansive whaling fleets.

It wasn’t until the 1980s that regulations were put in place to cease whaling activities, safeguarding these magnificent creatures from the brink of extinction. Then, the landscape of human-whale interaction around Cape Cod took a turn in 1975 with the launch of the first leisurely whale-watching cruise.

This shift from hunting to observation and appreciation marked the beginning of a new era. Today, the accumulated wisdom of tour operators — who have spent years navigating the bay and learning about the whales — is shared with visitors to enrich their whale-watching experiences on Cape Cod.

Towns That Have Whale Watching Cruises

On Cape Cod, you can embark on whale-watching excursions from several towns, including Barnstable, Chatham, and Provincetown. Barnstable and Provincetown are particularly favored for their proximity to Stellwagen Bank, the summer feeding ground for whales, making these ports prime launch points for tours.

Where Whale-Watching Boats Go to See Whales

As whales journey northward, they are drawn to the rich feeding grounds of the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, teeming with plankton and fish populations. Nestled east of Boston — between Cape Cod and Cape Ann — this sanctuary is a crucial fishing area with historical significance and stands as the sole national marine sanctuary in New England. Whale-watching tours from Cape Cod typically venture into this sanctuary, providing visitors with an up-close encounter with these magnificent marine mammals.

Best Time to Go to the Cape for Whale Watching

The whale-watching season on Cape Cod kicks off around mid-April and extends through October. The prime viewing window spans from June to September, coinciding with the whales’ peak migration period. During these months, chances are high that you’ll spot multiple whales during a single boat tour. As late October approaches, the whales begin their southward migration to warmer waters for the winter.

Whale watching in Cape Cod Bay can be rewarding at any time of day, as whales are continuously active. However, most tour operators schedule their excursions in the morning and early afternoon, considering the typical duration of three to four hours for these trips.

Sea conditions can impact your whale-watching experience. Calm seas, with swells under 2 feet, are ideal for a smooth journey. Larger swells can lead to a rougher trip and potentially cause seasickness. Rain shouldn’t be a deterrent, though, as whales continue their usual activities in wet weather — after all, they’re aquatic animals accustomed to life in the ocean.

Best Cape Cod Whale Watching Tours

Numerous tour operators provide whale-watching excursions around the Cape, and we have handpicked those that we feel deliver the best experiences.

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises in Barnstable

Since its inception in 1980, Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises has been conducting daily Cape Cod whale-watching tours from Barnstable Harbor. Recognized for its exceptional service, it has consistently been honored with the Best of the Cape & Islands accolade by Cape Cod Life magazine’s readership every year since 2014.

SeaSalt Charters in Provincetown

SeaSalt Charters — a top-rated provider of whale-watching experiences in Provincetown since its establishment in 2012 — offers private boat tours that allow you to discover the whale feeding grounds intimately with your own group of family or friends. Also, it provides options for shared or split charters, catering to a variety of preferences — including whale watching, fishing, combo excursions, and tailored charters.

Cape Tip’N Charter Fishing in Provincetown

Renowned for its four-hour light tackle fishing excursions targeting striped bass, Cape Tip’N Charter Fishing provides the unique opportunity to combine these fishing adventures with private whale-watching experiences. Additionally, it offers nature and sightseeing trips, and you have the flexibility to tailor a custom journey around Cape Cod.

Dolphin Fleet in Provincetown

Since 1975, Dolphin Fleet has been a staple for whale-watching tours on Cape Cod. These excursions are led by knowledgeable naturalists and feature a boat equipped with a sun deck, a viewing platform, an air-conditioned and heated cabin, several restrooms, and a galley offering refreshments and snacks. For an opportunity to capture stunning photographs, consider reserving a spot on the Sunset Whale Watch.

Beth Ann Charters in Provincetown

Operating from Provincetown Harbor from May through October, Beth Ann Charters sets sail daily to Stellwagen Bank, allowing passengers to observe whales feeding in their natural environment. In addition to whale watching, the company specializes in sport fishing excursions, great white shark tours, and a variety of other specialty charter experiences.

BlueWater Entertainment in Chatham

Situated on the southeastern tip of Cape Cod, BlueWater Entertainment offers 2.5-hour whale-watching charters. Its diverse charter services also encompass shark tours, lobstering excursions, and fishing trips. For a more extensive adventure, it provides full-day experiences, island excursions, sunset and seal tours, and the option for multi-boat charters.

More Whale Watching Near Cape Cod

For travelers on the western flank of Cape Cod, whale-watching excursions are accessible from Plymouth and Boston. Captain John Boats in Plymouth comes highly recommended for its expert guides, and it features fast ferry services to Provincetown, scenic cruises, and deep-sea fishing trips.

With Captain Tim Brady & Sons in Plymouth, you can enjoy a unique water-level perspective of the whales at Stellwagen Bank. Further north along the coast, Boston Harbor Cruises partners with the New England Aquarium to provide high-speed whale-watching tours, complete with naturalists on board to educate and field questions about the marine giants.

What to Expect on Whale Watching Cape Cod Cruises

Annually, the waters around Cape Cod play host to an estimated 130 species of whales and other marine life. During whale-watching tours, you’re likely to encounter a variety of whale species. Common sightings include humpback, finback, pilot, right, and minke whales.

The minke whale is noted for being the most diminutive of the bunch, with adults averaging between 25 to 35 feet in length. The likelihood of spotting at least one species of whale on your excursion is quite high; it’s rare to return without any whale sightings. Moreover, guides often enhance the experience by sharing personal anecdotes about the individual whales.

When to Book a Cape Cod Whale-Watching Cruise

While it’s feasible to join a whale-watching tour without pre-purchasing tickets, it’s advisable to secure your spot ahead of time, particularly when traveling as a group. During the bustling summer months, boats often reach full capacity quickly, and booking in advance ensures that you won’t miss out.

Ticket prices for whale watching can vary slightly from one tour operator to the next, while private charters may come at a higher cost. For potential savings, keep an eye out for discounts and coupons, which might be available via promotional offers in local stores or on deal platforms like Groupon.

You’ll See More Than Whales

The marine ecosystem around Cape Cod is teeming with biodiversity. The National Park Service reports that over 450 animal species inhabit these waters, so you’re poised to encounter much more than just whales on your nautical adventure. You can expect to see Atlantic white-sided dolphins, seals, sea turtles, and a variety of waterfowl — including storm petrels — in the locales favored by whale-watching tours.

What to Wear & Bring for Whale Watching on Cape Cod

Your attire for a Cape Cod whale-watching trip is crucial for ensuring comfort. The ocean breeze can be brisk, so bringing a jacket or sweatshirt for warmth is a good idea.

Opting for water-resistant gear is also wise to stay dry in case of wet weather. Rainy days can offer excellent whale-watching opportunities, but they can also be less enjoyable if you’re not properly equipped.

Additionally, securing your hat with a leash can prevent it from being whisked away by unexpected gusts of wind. Choose sneakers or shoes with rubber soles for better traction on the boat deck.

And, remember to apply sunscreen before and throughout the excursion to protect against sunburn, even on overcast days. Additional items to consider bringing on your whale-watching journey include:

• A camera for capturing memories
• Binoculars for a closer look
• A small, soft-sided cooler stocked with beverages and snacks
• Seasickness remedies if you’re prone to motion sickness
• Travel games, books, and playing cards to enjoy during downtime

Spotting Whales From the Cape Cod Shore

While boat excursions into Cape Cod Bay significantly increase your chances of whale sightings, it is possible to spot whales from the shore. The majestic creatures can be seen breaching the water’s surface to breathe and even leaping from the water.

At the Cape’s northernmost point, Race Point Beach is one of the prime spots for shore-based whale watching because of its proximity to the Stellwagen Bank.

When attempting to spot whales from the land, use binoculars or a camera with a powerful zoom to scan the water’s surface. Look for the characteristic spout — a misty plume of air and water expelled as the whale exhales. In addition, you might witness the dramatic sight of a whale’s mouth lunging from the water or its tail creating a splash.

Cape Cod Has Even More Fun in Store

Embarking on a whale-watching tour can be a memorable part of a Cape Cod honeymoon or weekend getaway. But, there’s a wealth of other attractions to enjoy as well. For instance, you might spend time exploring the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Centrally located in Brewster, Candleberry Inn is a charming bed and breakfast that serves as a perfect home base for a Cape Cod retreat. We are less than a one-hour drive from various attractions across the Cape. You can even fill your itinerary with an array of activities in Brewster.

Be sure to check our luxurious accommodations for your next Cape Cod visit.