USA · WHALE WATCHING

The 15 Best Whale Watching Trips in the USA

36 tours  ·  from $30 a head

Humpbacks off Maui in winter, grey whales up the Pacific coast, and a season that decides everything. These 15 compare the boats on price, trip length and what the operator does when nothing surfaces.

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching - Auke Bay is where the real action begins
Tour Reviews, Tours in Juneau, Whale Watching, Wildlife

Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching

1.Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching

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

Meet Alaska Tales beneath the tent by Juneau’s Mt. Roberts Tramway, then ride to Auke Bay for a whale-watching cruise. Expect a heated cabin, outdoor viewing decks, snacks, bottled water, and a naturalist-led search for humpback whales. Guides such as Kacie, Genevieve, Ashley, and Nate have been praised for clear wildlife talks and care around the animals.

“Every staff member at Alaska Tales that I encountered was friendly and knowledgeable. They genuinely care about their city and their wildlife. I was on their very last tour of the season couldn’t have been happier with the experience! We didn’t have to go far to see a pod of 3 whales. The captain did a great job getting us close but not too close.”

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Juneau Wildlife Whale Watching & Mendenhall Glacier - From the bus to a whale-watching boat
Tour Reviews, Tours in Juneau, Whale Watching, Wildlife

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

Spend about 45 to 50 minutes at Mendenhall Glacier, then board a warm, wildlife-viewing boat with large windows and an outdoor deck. Local guides such as Captain Michelle, Nate, Taylor, Ashley, and Leon help you spot humpback whales, sea lions, eagles, and more. Round-trip cruise-port transport keeps this half-day outing simple.

“Glacier wasn’t as exciting as I had hoped but we got to see 4 different whales on our tour. Boat captain and guide was very interesting since he knew so much about the whales.”

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Boston: City Cruises Whale Watching Cruise - Reaching Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary
Cruises & Boat Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Boston, Whale Watching

Boston: City Cruises Whale Watching Cruise

3.City Cruises Whale Watching Cruise

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

Set out from Boston’s Long Wharf on a high-speed whale-watching boat with outdoor decks, heated indoor seating, snacks, and New England Aquarium naturalists. Expect about 3.5 to 4 hours on the water, including roughly 1.5 hours near Stellwagen Bank. Humpbacks, fin whales, minkes, dolphins, and other marine life are possible sightings.

“Andrew was a great tour guide and was very enthusiastic. We saw many whales and even dolphins.”

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Whale Watching Tour in Gloucester - The ride out to the whale grounds
Tour Reviews, Tours, Whale Watching

Whale Watching Tour in Gloucester

4.Whale Watching Tour in Gloucester

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

Join Cape Ann Whale Watch from Gloucester for a four-hour trip to Stellwagen Bank aboard the 115-foot Hurricane II. A naturalist guides the search for humpback, fin, and minke whales, dolphins, and porpoises. The boat has heated indoor seating, outdoor viewing decks, and a galley selling meals, snacks, and drinks.

“It was an amazing experience. The staff was incredible and very passionate about their jobs. I would definitely do it again snd refer my friends.”

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City Cruises Boston Whale Watching Cruise by High-Speed Boat - A naturalist-led search, not a silent sightseeing ride
Cruises & Boat Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Boston, 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

From Long Wharf, you’ll ride a high-speed catamaran to Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary with a naturalist guide. Watch for humpback, fin, and minke whales, dolphins, and seabirds from the outdoor decks, then warm up in the cabin with snacks and drinks for purchase. The cruise lasts about 3.5 hours.

“Our trip was a bit unconventional. There was a medical emergency which required our excursion to be. It short as we dropped off the person in another community. However the staff was purely professional, communicative and went around individually to see if anyone needed help. It was still a fun event on the water.”

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Maui Eco-Raft Tour: Eye-Level Whale or Dolphin Watching - Lahaina - Summer dolphin trips and coastal views
Dolphin & Manatee Tours, Rafting & Ziplining, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Maui, Whale Watching

Maui Eco-Raft Tour: Eye-Level Whale or Dolphin Watching – Lahaina

6.Maui Eco-Raft Tour: Eye-Level Whale or Dolphin Watching – Lahaina

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,482 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $85

From Lahaina, you’ll ride a small zodiac raft for whale watching from December to April, or dolphin watching and coastal sightseeing in summer. Guides such as Captain Jack, Jess, Mark, and Olivia explain marine life while a hydrophone lets you hear whale songs. Expect a friendly small-group ride, ocean spray, and no guarantee of close wildlife encounters.

“This was an absolutely amazing experience! There are so many places to choose from, but we were told this one was highly recommended and we now see why. Small group, in a boat low to the water so we could easily maneuver to be safely near where the whales went — obviously keeping a distance to not interfere with them. The tour was fun, safe and informative. Truly a highlight of our visit to Maui. Captain Darryll was awesome! We also had an opportunity to meet one of the owners the day before, and were very impressed with her knowledge.”

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San Diego Whale Watching Cruise - Leaving Shelter Island and entering San Diego Bay
Cruises & Boat Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in San Diego, Whale Watching

San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

7.San Diego Whale Watching Cruise

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

Sail from Shelter Island aboard America, a replica of the 1851 America’s Cup winner. Your guide, often Fathom, points out gray whales, dolphins, sea lions, Navy ships, and Old Point Loma Lighthouse. The four-hour cruise includes snacks, soft drinks, blankets, free parking, and a free return trip if no whale appears.

“It was an awesome experience, with a very friendly and knowledgeable staff that made it a memorable and thoroughly enjoyable excursion. We saw several wales and lots of marine life. It completely exceeded our expectations and we would highly recommend that you experience this for yourself.”

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Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour - From Old Fisherman’s Wharf to the open bay
Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Monterey and Carmel, Whale Watching

Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour

8.Monterey Bay: Whale Watching Tour

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

Board Discovery Whale Watch at Monterey’s Old Fisherman’s Wharf for a 3 to 4-hour cruise led by a marine biologist. You may see humpbacks, gray whales, blue whales, dolphins, sea lions, otters, and more. Guides such as Isaiah, Maddy, and Sophie add lively commentary, while free hot drinks help on chilly water.

“Just incredible to see the sea otters, dolphins and whales. The crew were incredibly knowledgable. Sea sickness tablets are a must”

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Whale Watching Trips to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. Guaranteed sightings! - Finding whales in a living marine sanctuary
Tour Reviews, Whale Watching

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

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

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

From Gloucester, 7 Seas Whale Watch takes you toward Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary for 3.5 to 4 hours of whale watching. A naturalist explains whale behavior while the captain searches for feeding pods. Expect open decks, indoor seating, a restroom, snacks for purchase, and a $5 fuel surcharge.

“We experienced dolphins who played with the boat and saw whales several times. I would definitely recommend going”

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2-Hour Oahu Whale Watch from Ala Wai Harbor, Waikiki - Learning from the crew on the Lahaina Princess
2-Hour Experiences, Tour Reviews, Tours in Oahu, Whale Watching

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

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

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

Cruise from Ala Wai Harbor with Captain Logan and crew members such as Peter and Carel during Oahu’s December-to-May humpback season. You’ll have upper-deck or cabin viewing, live narration, Diamond Head and Waikiki views, and an underwater hydrophone. Whales are not guaranteed, but the boat may offer a return pass when sightings fail.

“Great vessel, terrific captain and crew. Everyone was friendly and informative. It was a nice time even though we didn't see anything besides spouts. Learned some new things which is always cool.”

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Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour - The three-hour route and what you may see
Cruises & Boat Tours, Dolphin & Manatee Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Monterey and Carmel, Whale Watching

Monterey: Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

11.Monterey Bay Dolphin and Whale Watching Boat Tour

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

Sail from Old Fisherman’s Wharf with Chris’ Fishing and Whale Watching for three hours of wildlife spotting. Guides such as Kevin and Lauren explain Monterey Bay’s ecology while the captain tracks humpback and gray whales, dolphins, sea lions, otters, and birds. Smaller boats offer clear views, but choppy seas and confusing parking require preparation.

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

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3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau, Alaska - What happens on the water
Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Juneau, Whale Watching

3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau, Alaska

12.3.5 Hour Crowd-Skipping Whale Tour in Juneau, Alaska

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,164 reviews · 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $189

Join Juneau Whale Tours for a small-group cruise from Auke Bay aboard a heated 40-foot catamaran limited to 20 people. Guides such as TJ, Andrew, Cedar, and Alan share local facts while you watch for humpback whales, sea lions, seals, eagles, glaciers, and rocky inlets. Downtown pickup is included, but AJ Dock passengers must arrange transport to the Goldbelt Tram.

“This is singularly great tour! Love Cedar’s chat on the bus. Loved TJ and Andrew show was great but the mic needs to go up. I could only hear every second word. We saw so many whales it was rediculous! It was amazing to be out on the sea! Note, they need to mention that tips are encouraged for the staff because I had none and I hate not having a tip.”

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4 Hour Whale Watching Tour From Monterey - A marine biologist, naturalist, and working research trip
Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Monterey and Carmel, Whale Watching

4 Hour Whale Watching Tour From Monterey

13.4 Hour Whale Watching Tour From Monterey

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

Set out from Old Fisherman’s Wharf at 9 a.m. with a marine biologist or naturalist and a maximum of 30 people. Search Monterey Bay for humpback, gray, and blue whales, dolphins, sea lions, birds, and more. Crew members such as Isaiah, Cory, Colby, and Captain JJ have led recent trips, sharing wildlife facts, photo tips, and conservation notes.

“Had such a great experience on this tour. Spent around 1.5 hours watching humpback whales feed as well as some sea lions. The crew were mega helpful and informative. Explaining the geography of the bay and the reasons the whales were present. Apparently the sea can get a little choppy in October/when winter starts to set in which is what we experienced so take some travel sickness tablets before getting to the dock if you are prone to feeling motion sickness.”

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Ma'alaea Harbor: Whale Watching Tour Aboard Power Catamaran - Boarding the double-deck power catamaran
Cruises & Boat Tours, Sailing, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Maui, Whale Watching

Ma’alaea Harbor: Whale Watching Tour Aboard Power Catamaran

14.Ma’alaea Harbor: Whale Watching Tour Aboard Power Catamaran

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 979 reviews · 2 hours · from $49

Cruise from Ma'alaea Harbor aboard Quicksilver's double-deck power catamaran during Maui's December to April whale season. Captain Kiwi, Carlos, Paul, and other crew members have provided lively whale narration, while hydrophones let you hear whale songs. Expect open views, shaded seating, drinks, restrooms, and a chance to see breaching calves.

“Everything was great!! We seen whales! The sun was shining it was a good day. The captain was very friendly and knowledgeable about the whales. The staff were polite and friendly served drinks . We would highly recommend this whale tour!!!”

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Two-Hour Luxury Whale Watching Tour from Oceanside - Which whales might you see?
2-Hour Experiences, Tour Reviews, Tours, VIP, Whale Watching

Two-Hour Luxury Whale Watching Tour from Oceanside

15.Two-Hour Luxury Whale Watching Tour from Oceanside

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 937 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $64

Join Oceanside Adventures for a two-hour cruise from Oceanside Harbor aboard a 50-foot catamaran. A certified marine naturalist captain narrates the trip while you search for gray, blue, humpback, and fin whales, plus dolphins and sea lions. The boat carries up to 40 people and has covered seating, panoramic views, and a cash bar.

“Great experience. Saw lots of dolphins. Very nice and knowledgeable crew. The boat itself was the perfect size and the time period was just right.”

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New in Whale Watching

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★ 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
★ 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
★ 5.0Pelagic Whale Watch TourFrom $129557 reviews
★ 4.3Half-Day Wildlife and Whale Watching CruiseFrom $148378 reviews
★ 4.3Newport Beach: Whale and Dolphin-Watching CruiseFrom $30415 reviews
★ 4.7Whale Watching Tour with A Marine GuideFrom $70348 reviews
★ 4.7Sunset Whale Watching Cruise with A GuideFrom $75519 reviews
★ 4.5Long Beach: Whale and Dolphin Watching CruiseFrom $45488 reviews
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