Trips | Newburyport Whale Watch (2024)

Not only do we offer whale watches through Newburyport Whale Watch, our sister company, Captain's Fishing Parties, has an array of fishing trips and cruises both public and private.

Whale Watches

Our Whale Watches depart from our dock at the Newburyport Boardwalk, on 54 Merrimac Street, in Newburyport Massachusetts. Each trip runs between 4 and 4 1/2 hours. This gives us time to locate and visit the whales and other marine life.

We most commonly sight Humpback Whales, Finback Whales, and Minke Whales on our weekly trips. Other sightings include; seals, porpoise, sharks, ocean sunfish, and a variety of sea birds. Check out our WHALE SIGHTINGS page to see the latest whale reports!

All of us from Newburyport Whale Watch
look forward to providing you with a safe and memorable experience!

Trips | Newburyport Whale Watch (1)

Trips | Newburyport Whale Watch (2)

Birding Trips

Our birding trips head out to similar areas as our whale watches, to either Jeffreys Ledge or Stellwagen bank where the bird life is active. Each trip has a naturalist aboard from the Joppa Flats Education Center.

We see many of the shore and seabirds of the Atlantic Coast during these special 6 hour trips. Sightings may include shearwaters, gannets, fulmars, Shearwater (3)terns, gulls and more! Our naturalist will point out many different variations of the various species and is more than willing to explain any sighting you might not be able to identify.

For any age, these trips will invite you into a world you won't see from shore! Sailing on select Mondays during the season you don't want to miss this fun and educational experience.

Visit the Mass Audubon Website for more information.

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Evening Cruise Schedule

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Private Charters

The Captain's Lady III is available for weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties, corporate meetings, company outings, class trips or any other special occasion. We can ferry you to the Isles of Shoals off the Maine and New Hampshire coast or take you on a slow sunset cruise on the Merrimack River. We'll be happy to offer suggestions to help make your event a memorable trip for all on board.

Our experienced staff will handle all the details so your wedding, company outing, or class trip will be perfectly planned and executed. This boat is designed to ensure a successful, seamless presentation that will exceed your expectations. Whether it's a dinner cruise or corporate fishing event, take advantage of Captain's Fishing Parties resources. We have several options available for your consideration that will compliment you're needs. If you are considering a corporate function or group trip don't hesitate to give us a call and discuss our rates and accommodations that will make your event a success.

Private Charter Details & Itineraries

  • Groups to 149 people
  • Friendly bar service
  • PA system
  • Cordless microphone
  • Top deck with open space for DJ/Band & dancing
  • Large [heated] indoor cabin
  • Full Catering Service Available

Evening Cruises

Why have your party in a boring function hall when you have it on the beautiful Merrimack River! Bring your event to the water with us and we'll take you on a smooth ride up and down the river where you can watch the sunset and dance the night away. The second deck is perfect for a DJ or a band and has plenty of room for dancing or other activities. We also have a cash bar service in the large cabins that can seat your guests. We can use your caterer or ours. It is very easy to tailor these cruises around your wants and needs for your particular event.

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Trips | Newburyport Whale Watch (6)


Experience the Isles of Shoals

Located just miles from the mouth of The Merrimack River lies the beautiful Isles of Shoals. The isles consist of nine rocky islands some of which are located in Maine waters and others in New Hampshire waters. The islands were named in 1614 by English explorer Captain John Smith. Island is the home of the Oceanic Hotel, in her hay day was one of the grandest hotels in the area and still host guests for a day, night, weekend, even a week! Many stories are told about Captain Kidd, Blackbeard the pirate, and even the lady ghost of White Island. Leave your worries on shore and spend a relaxing, peaceful time among the Isles of Shoals. Visit the Oceanic Hotel and enjoy coffee or a cold beverage, grab a snack at the snack bar and grab a cozy rocking chair on the impressive covered porch and enjoy the sounds and sights of these beautiful islands, one of New England's gems to visit. This cruise is perfect for any occasion.

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Trips | Newburyport Whale Watch (2024)

FAQs

What is the best month to go whale watching? ›

The peak season for blue whales in Southern California is from mid-June through mid-September, when they come to the coast to feed on krill. The best time to see them is typically from July through September.

Are whale watching excursions worth it? ›

Not only is whale watching fun, but connecting with nature in such a personal way can be exhilarating! When our passengers ask us, “is whale watching worth it,” all it takes is for us to show them the sight of these magnificent animals and they become changed for life.

Where is the best place to watch whale watching? ›

12 Best Destinations in the U.S. for Whale Watching
  • San Juan Islands, Washington State.
  • Juneau, Alaska.
  • Maui, Hawaii.
  • Monterey, California.
  • San Diego, California.
  • Depoe Bay, Oregon.
  • Cape Cod, Massachusetts.
  • Bar Harbor, Maine.
Feb 16, 2024

What is the best boat to whale watch in? ›

Many say the ideal boat for whale-watching is a catamaran — the twin hulls make it stable, and the higher perch allows you to see whale spouts easily and observe whale behavior without waves getting between you and the animal.

How long does a whale watching trip take? ›

Usually a whale watching tour takes anywhere between 2.5 to 3 hours in order to navigate the ocean in search of different whale species. Depending on the type of whale, it may be necessary to navigate further out from shore to get the best opportunity to spot them based on their migration and feeding habits.

What are the odds of seeing a whale on a whale watching tour? ›

While we do not guarantee whale sightings on our tours, 20 years of sightings data shows that we do have a 90% chance of seeing whales during the peak months of June – September. As industry leaders, we are key members of a proprietary sightings network known as the Pacific Whale Watch Association.

Are there bathrooms on whale watching tours? ›

Each trip has either a marine biologist or naturalist on board. A more intimate experience on the water. Vessel has an onboard restrooms as well as snacks and beverages (including alcohol) for purchase.

How safe are whale watching tours? ›

Whale watching tours can be a safe and enjoyable experience when proper safety measures are in place and passengers take necessary precautions. By choosing a reputable tour company, dressing appropriately, staying hydrated, and respecting the wildlife, you can ensure a safe and unforgettable whale watching experience.

Do you tip on a whale watching tour? ›

Yes! Tipping is optional, but very much appreciated. Our Captains are super dedicated and passionate about what they do. Standard tipping for boat charters is 10-20% of the price of the tour which rounds out to $10-$20 per person.

Is Maine or Massachusetts better for whale watching? ›

In fact, the World Wildlife Fund named Massachusetts one of the best places for whale watching in the world.

Do whales get close to cruise ships? ›

Sometimes, they'll come very close to the ship or its tenders. If the tail flukes pop up, offering you a superb photo opportunity, it means the whale is about to dive deep, hundreds of feet, and it may not reappear for an hour. Spotting a blue whale is a true privilege.

How to choose a whale watching tour? ›

Do you have suitable safety measures in place? Operators should be able to assure you that they have an experienced and licensed boat handler and crew, and that the vessel is properly registered, licensed and inspected (according to the norms of the country in question) – not only to navigate, but to take tourists.

What time of day is best for whale watching? ›

Whales are generally most active in the morning and late afternoon, making these the best times to spot them. During the morning, whales tend to be more active as they start their day and may feed. As the day progresses and the sun sets, whales become more active as they prepare to rest for the night.

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