USA · WHALE WATCHING

The 15 Best Whale Watching Trips in the USA

41 tours  ·  from $35

Humpbacks off Maui from December to April, orcas out of the Pacific Northwest in summer, and Juneau in between. These 15 are priced by hours at sea, with a note on the sighting guarantees that actually mean something.

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching - Auke Bay and the two-hour search for whales
Alaska Tours, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching, Whale Watching in Alaska, Wildlife, Wildlife Tours in Alaska

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching

1.Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 7,379 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $177Our pick

Join Alaska Tales for a 3.5-hour whale-watching trip from Juneau. Meet beneath the tent by the Mt. Roberts Tramway, ride to Auke Bay, and watch for humpbacks, calves, porpoises, and possible orcas from heated cabins or outdoor decks. Naturalists such as Kacie, Genevieve, Ashley, and Nate explain whale behavior along the way.

“What’s a whale watching adventure after the whales migrate out of the area? It’s a little boat ride out. It’s a little boat ride back. Fortunately for us, it was a beautiful day. And the crew was delightful.”

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Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier - A Whale Boat Designed for Juneau Weather
Alaska Tours, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching, Whale Watching in Alaska, Wildlife, Wildlife Tours in Alaska

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier

2.Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 6,236 reviews · 4 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $249

Visit Mendenhall Glacier for about 45 to 50 minutes, then cruise Juneau’s coastal waters aboard a warm, wildlife-ready boat. Guides such as Captain Michelle, Nate, Taylor, and Ashley help spot humpbacks, orcas, seals, and eagles. Round-trip port transfers make this a useful cruise-day combo.

“Beautiful day. Knowledgeable guides. Great time. Boat very nice, covered and has a restroom. Would go again”

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Boston: City Cruises Whale Watching Cruise - The long run to Stellwagen Bank
Boat Tours in Boston, Boston Tours, City Tours, City Tours in Boston, Cruises & Boat Tours, Sightseeing Cruises, Sightseeing Cruises in Boston, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching

Boston: City Cruises Whale Watching Cruise

3.City Cruises Whale Watching Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 4,710 reviews · 3h 30m · from $85

Join Boston Harbor City Cruises at Long Wharf for a 3.5 to 4 hour trip to Stellwagen Bank. New England Aquarium naturalists, including guides such as Amanda and Andrew, explain whale behavior while you watch from outdoor decks or large-window cabins.

“We were very lucky to have a fine day for this activity and although I do suffer from motion sickness I felt absolutely fine for the whole trip. We were given an interesting dialogue on the way out to the whale watching area and it was wonderful to manage to see three magnificent whales.”

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Whale Watching Tour in Gloucester - What the Hurricane II feels like onboard
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Whale Watching Tour in Gloucester

4.Whale Watching Tour in Gloucester

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 4,460 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $48

Cruise from Gloucester to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary aboard the 115-foot Hurricane II. Naturalists explain humpback and fin whales, dolphins, and porpoises while you watch from outdoor decks or a heated cabin. The trip lasts about four hours and includes a galley, bar, and onboard rest.

“Well run, great focus on safety. Parking onsite made things very easy. Excellent job by the crew finding a variety of whales to see.”

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City Cruises Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Boat - The naturalist makes the waiting worthwhile
Boat Tours in Boston, Boston Tours, City Tours, City Tours in Boston, Cruises & Boat Tours, Sightseeing Cruises, Sightseeing Cruises in Boston, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching

City Cruises Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Boat

5.City Cruises Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Boat

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 3,115 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $85

Leave Boston’s Long Wharf by high-speed catamaran for Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. A naturalist, sometimes including guides such as Colin, explains whale behavior and conservation while you watch for humpbacks, finbacks, minkes, dolphins, and seabirds.

“Was cold and windy on the water, definitely bring a jacket. Thought it was going to be disappointing after 3 hours passed without seeing anything. Luckily we found 2 humpbacks together and saw some incredible things. Full breach, flipper slapping, and general swimming about. Ended up being an absolute stunner of a day.”

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San Diego Whale Watching Cruise - Searching the Pacific for gray whales
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San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

6.San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,317 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $85

Join guides such as Fathom aboard America, a replica of the 1851 America’s Cup winner, for a 4 to 4.5-hour sail from Shelter Island. Watch for gray whales, dolphins, sea lions, and Navy ships while enjoying snacks, sodas, wide decks, and a whale sighting guarantee.

“Amazing day! Knowledgeable and friendly crew. We were apprehensive that with the open schooner it would be too windy. Perfect day!, They supplied blankets but ww didn't need them. We saw so many whales and dolphins playing out in the ocean. We would go again, and definitely recommend this experience!!”

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Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour - Leaving Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Monterey & Carmel Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Whale Watching

Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour

7.Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 2,300 reviews · 3 - 4 hours · from $75

Cruise from Old Fisherman’s Wharf into Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, where guides such as Isaiah and Maddy explain the wildlife around you. Expect humpback whales, dolphins, sea lions, and seasonal sightings of gray, blue, fin, and orca whales. Hot drinks are included, but bring layers and motion-sickness medicine.

“The whales of course. Getting close. It was fun bouncing in a boat again. Great guides. Funny. Knowledgeable. Price was a little steep, but still worth it.”

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Whale Watching Trips to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. Guaranteed sightings! - What happens at the whale grounds
Boston Tours, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching

Whale Watching Trips to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. Guaranteed sightings!

8.Whale Watching Trips to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. Guaranteed sightings!

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,135 reviews · 4 hours (approx.) · from $45Best value

From Gloucester’s Rogers Street, 7 Seas Whale Watch takes you into Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary for 3.5 to 4 hours. A naturalist explains whale behavior while the captain tracks feeding pods. Expect open decks, indoor seating, a restroom, snacks for purchase, and possible humpback and dolphin sightings.

“This trip was spectacular! The crew was knowledgable and friendly. We saw several whales! Definitely one of the highlights of our trip. Highly recommend!”

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2-Hour Oahu Whale Watch from Ala Wai Harbor, Waikiki - Leaving Ala Wai Harbor for the Pacific
2-Hour Experiences, Oahu Tours, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching

2-Hour Oahu Whale Watch from Ala Wai Harbor, Waikiki

9.2-Hour Oahu Whale Watch from Ala Wai Harbor, Waikiki

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,929 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $49

Cruise from Ala Wai Harbor during Oahu’s December to May humpback season. Captain Logan and crew guide you toward whale sightings, explain breaches and tail slaps, and scan for dolphins, turtles, and flying fish. Choose the open upper deck or shaded cabin, and bring your own snacks and drinks.

“It was fun boat ride. We saw a few whales. One got close. The crew is entertaining and informative. We enjoyed it.”

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Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour - Leaving Old Fisherman’s Wharf
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Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

10.Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 1,645 reviews · 3 hours · from $62

Cruise from Old Fisherman’s Wharf with Chris’ Fishing and Whale Watching, looking for humpbacks, gray whales, dolphins, sea lions, birds, and more. Guides such as Kevin and Lauren explain Monterey Bay’s ecology, while the small boats offer clear views. Bring warm layers, a camera, and a steady stomach.

“We had a great experience from beginning to end. luckily we had a chance to see quite a few whales.”

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San Diego Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise - From Mission Beach boardwalk to open Pacific
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San Diego Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise

11.San Diego Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,588 reviews · 2 to 3 hours (approx.) · from $71

Cruise from Mission Bay into the Pacific in 2 to 3 hours, with naturalists such as Allison and Jennifer pointing out whales, dolphins, sea lions, and landmarks. The boat has restrooms, a galley, open viewing areas, and free parking on Quivira Road.

“We were on our way back after seeing hundreds of dolphins, when all of a sudden the whales appeared!”

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From Maalaea: Whale Watching Tour Aboard the Quicksilver - Leaving Maalaea Harbor aboard Quicksilver
Maui Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Whale Watching, Whale Watching in Maui

From Maalaea: Whale Watching Tour Aboard the Quicksilver

12.From Maalaea: Whale Watching Tour Aboard the Quicksilver

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,461 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $49

Cruise from Maalaea Harbor aboard the double-deck Quicksilver catamaran during Maui’s December to April whale season. You’ll spend about two hours watching humpback whales, listening to underwater songs through hydrophones, and hearing an informative account of whale behavior. Juice and soda are included.

“Kind and friendly staff. Good experience for the price. Would have liked to have explored more outside the harbor.”

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Maui: Ultimate Whale Watch from Lahaina - Reading the ocean for humpback whales
Maui Tours, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching, Whale Watching in Maui

Maui: Ultimate Whale Watch from Lahaina

13.Ultimate Whale Watch from Lahaina

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,162 reviews · 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 10 minutes (approx.) · from $77

From Lahaina Harbor, you’ll spend about two hours on a low, fast rafting vessel with a small group, looking for humpback whales and dolphins. Captains and naturalists such as Jill, Lacey, Kasey, and Jeremiah explain whale behavior, while an onboard hydrophone lets you hear whale songs underwater.

“Amazing experience with wonderful guides! Would 100% recommend this excursion and this company to others.”

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WHALES GUARANTEED Maui Whale Watching Makai Adventures - Finding the whales with Allison, Travis, Dani, and the crew
Maui Tours, Tour Reviews, Whale Watching, Whale Watching in Maui

WHALES GUARANTEED Maui Whale Watching Makai Adventures

14.WHALES GUARANTEED Maui Whale Watching Makai Adventures

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,081 reviews · 2 hours 15 minutes (approx.) · from $97

Join Makai Adventures at Mala Boat Ramp for a 2-hour-15-minute whale watch aboard a fast, cushioned-seat boat with shade, an onboard bathroom, and open viewing. Captains and crew such as Allison, Travis, Dani, Levi, and Noah share whale facts while guiding you toward active humpbacks.

“WONDERFUL! Saw so many Whales, and an EXCELLENT CREW who kept us informed of where to look! They are very knowledgeable and give detailed facts about the whales the entire time of the tour.”

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4 Hour Whale Watching Tour From Monterey - Whale encounters from gray whales to orcas
Monterey & Carmel Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Whale Watching

4 Hour Whale Watching Tour From Monterey

15.4 Hour Whale Watching Tour From Monterey

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,045 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $85

Leave Monterey’s Fisherman’s Wharf at 9 a.m. with a marine biologist or naturalist such as Isaiah, Cory, or Maddy. Spend about three and a half hours searching Monterey Bay for whales, dolphins, sea lions, otters, and birds while learning about local ecology and conservation.

“Overall I took 4 times of this tour already, the 3 stars is for this past Monday boat. In all 4 journeys, this is rhe only time that I want to throw up since the beginning. And not only me, lots of people on the boat puked as part of the trip, which I never saw other boats have this issue. I am not sure if it is the captain’s problem or not.”

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New in Whale Watching

★ 4.5Whale Watching TourFrom $62497 reviews
★ 4.5Monterey Whale Watching TourFrom $70732 reviews
★ 5.0Whale Watching from Ma’alaea HarborFrom $82537 reviews
★ 4.5Maui Premium Sunset Dinner Cruise & Whale WatchFrom $189504 reviews
★ 5.0Whale Watching Maui: 2-Hour Small Group Raft Tour from LahainaFrom $80661 reviews
★ 4.5Guided Whale Watching Tour from Long BeachFrom $35335 reviews
★ 4.5‘Imiloa Express Whale Watch and Cocktail TourFrom $135402 reviews
★ 4.5Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center and Ultimate Whale Watch ComboFrom $199771 reviews
★ 5.0Ultimate Whale Watch and Tracy’s Crab Shack ComboFrom $274614 reviews
★ 5.0Alaska Whale Watching with bonus Drone viewing of WhalesFrom $249387 reviews
★ 5.0Up-Close Dolphin & Whale Watching Zodiac Adventure in Dana PointFrom $99353 reviews
★ 5.0Dana Point Dolphin and Whale Watching with Underwater ViewingFrom $99788 reviews
★ 4.5Whale Watching Excursion in Dana PointFrom $65676 reviews
★ 5.0Zodiac Raft Whale Watching AdventureFrom $113456 reviews
★ 5.0Whale Watching On The Big IslandFrom $98573 reviews

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