---
title: New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise
slug: new-england-aquarium-whale-watch-cruise-boston
type: attraction
sub_type: whale watching
source_url: https://www.tripster.com/detail/new-england-aquarium-whale-watch-cruise-boston
city: Boston
state: MA
country: US
address: 1 Long Wharf
geo:
  lat: 42.35977
  lng: -71.05032
duration: up to 4 hrs
cancellation_policy: All sales are final. No cancellations or changes.
extracted_at: 2026-06-16T20:30:29.725Z
price_from:
  amount: 71.44
  currency: USD
  unit: per_adult
availability: InStock
rating:
  value: 4
  count: 1306
  scale: 5
ticket_options:
  - group: Other Options
    options:
      - name: New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise
        price: 67.24
        regular_price: 75
        savings: 7.76
        ticket_types:
          - name: Adult (13+ yrs)
            min_age: 13
          - name: Child (3-12 yrs)
            min_age: 3
            max_age: 12
          - name: Kids Free (0-2 yrs)
            min_age: 0
            max_age: 2
---
## Overview

Set out on a Boston whale watching cruise from Long Wharf to Stellwagen Bank, one of the best places to see whales in the wild. Watch humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes from a high-speed catamaran with outdoor decks and cozy indoor cabins, guided by expert naturalists from the New England Aquarium.

## What's Included

- Whale watching cruise to Stellwagen Bank aboard a high-speed catamaran
- Guided commentary by expert naturalists from the New England Aquarium
- Climate-controlled indoor seating, outdoor viewing decks, and onboard restroom

## What's Not Included

- Light snacks and drinks (available for purchase at the onboard bar)
- Gratuities (optional)

<!-- tripster:ticket-options:start -->
## Ticket Options

- **New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise** — $67.24 (regularly $75.00, save $7.76)
  Set sail from Boston on a 3–4 hour whale watching cruise to Stellwagen Bank. Spot humpback, finback, and minke whales from a high-speed catamaran with indoor and outdoor seating, guided by expert naturalists from the New England Aquarium.
  - Adult (13+ yrs)
  - Child (3-12 yrs)
  - Kids Free (0-2 yrs)

<!-- tripster:ticket-options:end -->

## Good to Know

* This Boston whale-watching cruise operates seasonally from May through November.
* Meeting location is at 1 Long Wharf. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your departure.
* Nearby pay-to-park spaces are available at Boston Harbor Garage and Rowes Wharf Garage.
* Family-friendly adventure on the water—children under three (3) can join for free!
* Wear casual, comfortable clothing and shoes. Bring a warm sweatshirt/light jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, a camera, binoculars, and cash for onboard purchases.
* Light snacks and drinks are available for purchase at the onboard bar.
* Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes.
* The catamaran has a restroom onboard.
* Tipping is optional but appreciated based on the level of service provided.

## Cancellation Policy

The source does not provide a specific cancellation policy text.

## FAQs

### Where does the New England Whale Watch Cruise depart?

This Boston whale-watching cruise departs from Boston Harbor City Cruises in The Landing at Long Wharf at 1 Long Wharf Boston, MA 02210.

### How long is this Boston Harbor whale-watching trip?

The New England Aquarium Whale Watch Cruise lasts approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. The location of the whales may require more travel time, so please allow for additional time in your schedule. The animals on the tour are wild creatures, and every cruise is different as far as animal activity. We do not offer refunds based on animal or whale sightings.

### Is there parking nearby?

You'll find 2 nearby pay-to-park garages: Boston Harbor Garage at 266 Atlantic Ave and Rowes Wharf Garage at 30 Rowes Wharf, Boston.

### How early should I arrive?

Please plan to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to allow time for parking and city traffic.

### Is the cruise recommended for children?

Yes, this cruise is family-friendly and suitable for all ages. Children under 3 ride free, but a free ticket must still be reserved to ensure they’re included in the passenger count.

### Are there food and drinks on board?

Yes, light snacks and drinks are available for purchase at the onboard bar.

### What should I wear?

Dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes.

### What should I bring?

Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a warm sweatshirt or light jacket—it can be chilly offshore, even on sunny days. A camera and binoculars are also great for capturing close-up views and memorable moments.

### Is there a restroom onboard?

Yes, the catamaran has a restroom on board.

### Are gratuities included?

Gratuities are not included. Tipping is optional but appreciated based on the level of service provided.

## Reviews

> "Whale Watching Tour in Boston"
> — Orlando, Florida, June 01, 2026

> "Be careful what site you get your tickets from. Use the aquarium’s site"
> — charleshA7900QI, September 20, 2025

> "Saw a whale which was awesome but the boat is dilapidated and disgusting"
> — reichertPRNY, New York City, New York, July 12, 2025

> "Wild nature at its best - great whale watching experience"
> — ronyk722, June 10, 2025

> "Lots of whales and lousy views"
> — ArtandGinnyNY, Endicott, New York, January 07, 2025