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Whale Watching Guide

Minke Whale

Minkes are the smallest baleen (non-toothed) whale in North American waters. They grow from 15-35 feet and weigh up to 10 tons. They often approach whale watch vessels and seem to enjoy leaping clear of the water's surface.

Humpback Whale

Humpbacks measure from 30-60 feet and weigh up to 40 tons. Their large, winglike flippers can extend to 14 feet. Very energetic, they often leap clear of the water, spin, or slap their fluke or flipper on the water's surface. They're also very vocal, "singing" a long series of repeated phrases.

Finback Whale

Finbacks are also called "razorbacks" for their sharp dorsal fins. They are the second largest of all whales, usually measuring 65-70 feet long and weighing up to 60 tons. They can swim up to 70 miles per hour and dive deeper than some other baleen whales.

Gentle Giants of the Deep

Seing these majestic giants rise from the deep and nuzzle alongside a boat is, for many, the most memorable event of their holiday.

Cruises leave regularly from Plymouth, Barnstable and Provincetown Harbors; most guarantee a sighting. Depending on the port, trips vary in length.

Your cruise will take you to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, the whales' favorite feeding grounds. In late winter, whales begin returning to the Sanctuary, which encompasses over 600 square nautical miles, about 26 miles east of Boston, 6 miles north of Race Point and 7 miles from Gloucester.

During your excursion, naturalists will help you spot, identify and learn more about these gentle giants. You are likely to see humpback, finback and minke whales, and no words can describe the thrill and awe associated with each sighting. Perhaps you'll see whales breaching (leaping straight out of the water into the air), spyhopping (holding their heads high out of the water as if having a look around) or sounding (executing a dive). Sometimes, a whale will slap the water with its flippers as if greeting you.