Whale Watch at Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

The Stellwagen Bank, an underwater plateau in the Atlantic off the Massachusetts coast, has one of the world's most biologically productive ocean environments, which makes it one of the best places to study and spot whales. The sanctuary lies within Massachusetts Bay, 25 miles east of Boston, 5 miles east of Gloucester, and 5 miles north of Provincetown, Massachusetts. Sightings are so frequent that some whale-watch cruises come with a guarantee of a free trip if no whales appear. Most commonly observed are female humpback whales that return to these waters, which are especially rich in food, to teach their young to hunt.

Whale watching has become a major industry and recreational activity with the primary focus on humpback whales due to their reliable presence and dramatic behaviors. In addition to the humpback whales, there is a good chance of seeing other whale species, Atlantic white-sided dolphins, harbor porpoises, seals, and other marine life. Researchers from the Whale Center of New England accompany the three-hour Boston Whale Watching Cruise to explain the whales' habits and habitat and discuss their conservation status and scientific tracking methods. Schedules vary, but most companies offer trips from the beginning of May until the end of October, although several may start earlier or end later in the season.

Location: Massachusetts Bay, Massachusetts, United States
Website: https://stellwagen.noaa.gov/
Distance from Delaware: 90 miles

Travel time: 50 minutes

Fee: $40 per person

TripAdvisor Review: 1,577 reviews