Whale-Watching Tours You Won’t Want to Miss

Whale-Watching Tours You Won’t Want to Miss

Whale-watching is one of those experiences that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is truly unforgettable. From humpback whales to orcas, the United States boasts some of the best whale-watching spots and tours around. Here are some of the top tours you can book, along with what you can expect from your adventure.

What to Expect on American Whale-Watching Tours

Whale-watching tours in the U.S. come in all shapes and sizes. Some are quick, affordable excursions that last just a few hours—perfect for a day trip—while others are all-inclusive cruises, complete with overnight stays and expert guides who can help you spot wildlife along the way.

No matter the type of tour you choose, keep in mind that whale sightings aren’t guaranteed. While the time of year can improve your chances, whales are wild animals, and they may not be around, no matter how ideal the conditions.

When planning your trip, it’s essential to consider the best time of year for whale migration, as different species are active at various times.

When’s the Best Time to Go Whale-Watching in the U.S.?

Different whale species migrate or are most active at certain times of the year. If you’re hoping to spot a particular species, it’s best to plan your tour around their migration patterns.

Here are some of the most commonly seen whales, where you’re most likely to spot them, and when to book your tour:

• Humpback Whales: Common on the West Coast and in Alaska. They feed in Alaskan waters from May to September and travel south from September to November. You can also spot them along the East Coast.

• Orcas: Found around the San Juan Islands in Washington and along the West Coast. The best time to see them is from April to October when they migrate and breed.

• Gray Whales: These whales head to Mexico between December and February, passing the West Coast. Oregon is a great place to catch a glimpse.

• Fin Whales: While they tend to stay farther from shore, they are most active between July and September. You can spot them along California’s coast and some East Coast locations.

• Blue Whales: Extremely rare to see, but these giants travel from Alaska to Mexico between April and September. The first blue whale sighting in Massachusetts in 20 years made headlines recently, so sightings are a true event.

Top American Whale-Watching Tours You Should Book

If you’re ready to explore the seas and marvel at the incredible wildlife, check out these amazing American whale-watching tours. Don’t forget to book based on the best whale migration times!

1. Royal Caribbean’s 7-Night Alaska Cruise

• Departure/Return: From Seattle

• Accommodation: Multiple cabins, all-inclusive meals

• Wildlife You’ll See: Humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, harbor seals, Stellar sea lions, porpoises, raptors

• Cost: Starts at $818 per person

• Details: Royal Caribbean’s Alaska experience is perfect for those looking for a mix of adventure and comfort. Their whale-watching excursions are top-notch, with options for kayaking and safari-style boat tours, all guided by naturalists. Plus, you’ll even get to listen to whale calls through hydrophones!

2. Monterey Bay Whale Watch

• Departure: Fisherman’s Wharf, Monterey Bay, CA

• Accommodation: Large boats with room for 100+

• Wildlife You’ll See: Orcas, blue whales, gray whales, dolphins, sea otters, seals, seabirds

• Cost: $20-$210, depending on tour length and age

• Details: Monterey Bay is a haven for marine wildlife, and their whale-watching tours are a great way to see it up close. Whether you want a short 4-hour tour or a 12-hour adventure, you’ll have a chance to spot a variety of species year-round.

3. Dockside Charters Depoe Bay (Oregon)

• Departure: Depoe Bay, OR

• Accommodation: 50’ chartered vessel

• Wildlife You’ll See: Gray whales, humpback whales, blue whales, seals, sea lions

• Cost: $20-$50

• Details: Known as Oregon’s whale-watching capital, Depoe Bay offers affordable and informative tours. With experience spanning decades, Dockside Charters provides great chances to see gray whales, humpbacks, and blue whales. Their short tours are ideal for a quick adventure.

4. Island Adventures (Washington State)

• Departure: Anacortes, WA

• Accommodation: 100’ vessel with heated interior and three viewing decks

• Wildlife You’ll See: Orcas, gray whales, blue whales, sea lions, seals, seabirds

• Cost: $79-$119

• Details: Based in the San Juan Islands, Island Adventures is known for its excellent whale-watching opportunities. Their boat offers a comfortable experience, and their tours boast a 97% success rate of spotting whales.

5. Star of Honolulu Whale-Watching Tour (Hawaii)

• Departure: Aloha Tower Marketplace, Honolulu, HI

• Accommodation: Large boat with multiple decks

• Wildlife You’ll See: Humpback whales, dolphins, pilot whales, sea turtles

• Cost: $40-$70 (special pricing for early birds)

• Details: Head to Hawaii for a family-friendly whale-watching tour with the Star of Honolulu. From January to March, you can see humpback whales, and you might even spot some other cool creatures like sea turtles and manta rays. The boat is large and stable, perfect for families.

6. Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. (Maine)

• Departure: Downtown Bar Harbor, ME

• Wildlife You’ll See: Fin whales, humpbacks, sharks, seals, seabirds

• Cost: $32-$78

• Details: Located near Acadia National Park, this tour offers a chance to see multiple whale species in the Gulf of Maine. The tours run from late May to early October, with options for 3-5 hour trips.

7. American Cruise Lines Puget Sound & San Juan Islands

• Departure: Seattle, WA

• Accommodation: Balcony suites, fine dining, and entertainment

• Wildlife You’ll See: Orcas, humpbacks, gray whales, blue whales, seals

• Cost: Starts at $5,425

• Details: This luxury 8-day cruise through Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands is an amazing way to experience whale-watching in style. With plenty of on-shore excursions, gourmet meals, and guided tours, this cruise offers a truly unique experience.