Humpback whale diving at Stellwagon Banks
The Gerry E. Studs-Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, a major feeding area for marine wildlife, is less than one hour from Provincetown by whale watch boat. Whales are found here every summer in huge numbers, as are seabirds, seals and fish. Lucky whale watchers may even get to see sea turtles.
Whale watch tours from Provincetown
Dolphin Fleet of Provincetown provides multiple daily 3 to 4-hour (depending on the whales and weather) whale watch cruises out to Stellwagen Banks. On leaving Provincetown harbor, keep an eye out for common and grey seals traveling the waters near the Cape Cod National Seashore beaches. Often the whales also come into range long before the feeding grounds are reached. Minke and Fin whales may be seen traveling along the Cape Cod coast. Schools of Atlantic white-sided dolphins are common as well and may bow ride, playing in the water near the front of the boat.
Whales, dolphins, birds and fish of Stellwagon Banks
Once the whale watch boat has reached Stellwagen banks, humpback whale sightings are nearly guaranteed. Occasionally, especially early and late in the season, there may be a sighting of an endangered North Atlantic Right Whale, traveling through on their way to or from feeding grounds in the Bay of Fundy. Basking sharks, Mola mola or ocean sunfish, and bluefin tuna may also be seen. For bird watchers petrels, shearwaters and jaegers are all likely finds.
When to go whale watching off Cape Cod
Taking the first whale watch cruise of the day has several advantages. Often the boat is less crowded, making viewing easier. Best of all, the boat is back in Provincetown in time for a leisurely lunch at the Lobster Pot, or any of the many waterfront eateries.
Tours run from April 11 to October 25. To book telephone 1 800 826 9300 or visit the Dolphin Fleet of Provincetown website
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