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Book your Gloucester, MA whale-watching tour - experience whales off Gloucester's coast

You’re guaranteed whale sightings on this whale-watching tour out to Stellwagen Bank, a national marine preserve about 12 miles off the coast of Gloucester in Gloucester, Massachusetts, named one of the "Top 5 Whale Watching Destinations in the World" by the World Wildlife Fund; you’ll see a wide variety of whale species that migrate to the coast of Gloucester each year to feed on abundant natural resources, making this one of the best whale-watching experiences in New England and an awe-inspiring outing you should have the chance to appreciate.

About this activity in Gloucester

Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Highlights

  • Guaranteed whale sightings on a guided whale watching trip to Stellwagen Bank, one of the world’s premier marine preserves off Gloucester.
  • See a wide variety of whale species that migrate to the rich feeding grounds in this New England hotspot.
  • Experienced naturalists and crew onboard to help you identify marine life and enhance your wildlife-viewing experience.
  • An unforgettable outdoor nature adventure well suited to families, couples, and wildlife enthusiasts visiting the area.

Important Information

  • This tour departs from Gloucester and visits Stellwagen Bank roughly 12 miles offshore-expect several hours at sea for optimal sightings.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult; the outing is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health.
  • Dress for the current weather and bring layers-the ocean can be significantly cooler and windier than onshore.
  • Plan to arrive at least 45 minutes before your reservation to allow time for parking, check-in and boarding; public transit options are available nearby.

Meeting Point

Meet at the designated Gloucester harbor check-in area listed on your booking confirmation; arrive a minimum of 45 minutes early to park, check in and board the vessel.

Includes

  • A professional guide leads your experience in Gloucester, Massachusetts, providing expert commentary and local insights throughout the trip.
  • A naturalist is onboard to point out regional wildlife and interpret the coastal ecosystem so you get a deeper understanding of the area's nature.
  • A full galley is available onboard, ensuring vessel facilities are ready for your comfort during the activity in the region.

Excludes

  • Food and drinks are not included - plan to bring your own snacks or purchase provisions beforehand in Gloucester.
  • Gratuities are not included and are left to your discretion for staff and crew service.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off are not provided; you are responsible for arranging your own transport to the meeting point.

Other

  • Public transportation options are available nearby in Gloucester, making it easy to reach the departure point if you prefer not to drive.
  • This activity is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health; please assess your own medical needs before booking.
  • The experience is suitable for all physical fitness levels, allowing most people in the region to participate comfortably.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult for safety and supervision throughout the event.
  • Please dress appropriately for current weather conditions in Gloucester - layers and windproof outerwear are recommended when needed.
  • Arrive at least 45 minutes prior to your reservation to allow time to park, check in, and board the vessel smoothly.

Customer Reviews

10/10
Based on 10 Reviews
Jim4AU
Oct 27, 2025 01:36:05 PM
Summary: This was an Awesome experience for my wife and I. Tina was great at keeping us informed of whale sightings. I would definitely recommend Cape Ann Whale Watching to others.
debbiebL963ZM
Oct 26, 2025 10:28:26 AM
Summary: Tina was a great, knowledgeable tour guide and the whole crew was very friendly. The captain maneuvered the boat different ways so we could get good views of various whales. There was plenty of seating and good views from all parts of the boat. I'd definitely recommend it and will go again!
jonathansF414XZ
Oct 26, 2025 09:23:53 AM
Summary: Biologist was awesome. Best part of the whole trip. Don’t get nervous if you don’t see whales right away. It took 3 hours until we saw some but it was worth the wait and definitely worth every penny.

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Know more about Gloucester

You’ll see why Stellwagen Bank is rated among the world’s best for whale watching: the national marine preserve about 12 miles off Gloucester hosts a wide variety of migrating whale species that feed here, making whale sightings virtually guaranteed on this tour and creating one of the most memorable Nature & Wildlife and Outdoor & Nature experiences in New England.
You’ll be accompanied by a professional guide and a naturalist onboard, and the vessel features a full galley; note that food and drinks are excluded, so you should plan accordingly for your Water-Based sightseeing and Family & Kids outing.
Arrive at least 45 minutes prior to your reservation to park, check in and board the vessel, dress appropriately for current weather conditions, and know that public transportation options are available nearby to help you reach the departure point for this Gloucester whale watching excursion.
Yes - this whale watching tour guarantees sightings as you head to Stellwagen Bank, where abundant food sources attract multiple whale species during migration seasons, ensuring a high-probability wildlife encounter on your Water-Based sightseeing adventure.
Yes - the experience is suitable for all physical fitness levels and is family-friendly, though children must be accompanied by an adult; however, the tour is not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health due to the nature of the trip.
For a full refund you must cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time; gratuities, hotel pickup and drop-off, and food and drinks are not included in the tour price, so plan extra time and supplies if you need them for your multi-day, Group-Friendly, or Romantic & Couples outing.