Boston Harbor’s Long Wharf – beside the New England Aquarium – is the launch point for the New England Aquiarum’s Whale Watch Cruise on the City Cruise line.

The 3-4 hour cruise ventures to Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds, and other marine creatures. Depending on the time of year, its possible to see humpbacks, finbacks, and minkes.

While heading out to Stellwagen Bank, a guide describes the history, landmarks, and contemporary issues of islands and lighthouses passed en route. Educated and passionate naturalist guides go seat to seat to answer questions. Once in the protected area, ships share information to locate the whales and everyone is encouraged to keep their eyes out for sprays of water or sea birds that suggest the whales’ presence. Specific whales are known and their unique behaviors are documented by the ship’s crew for research. The ships retain a respectful distance from the whales; bring binoculars for a closer look. Once whales are seen, if the bottom deck is too crowded, head to the upper one.