Although we enjoyed the whale watch, it was also very frustrating. Everyone told us to not worry about what side of the boat you are on because the captain will turn the boat around so everyone can see. Well, that didn't happen on our boat last Wednesday at 2:30. If I heard her say at 2 o'clock, at 1 o'clock, at 1 o'clock, at 2 o'clock over and over again. I kept thinking, surely they will eventually turn the boat. Nope! When we finally had a whale at 11 o'clock that that left side of the boat could see, the captain turned the boat so 1 o'clock people could see. I kind you not! It was extremely frustrating. We finally were able to make it to the front of the boat and caught the last group of whales go by. We didn't want to move because we thought they would eventually show the 7-11 o'clock people something. You couldn't see anything if we did go to the other side because they were 2 people deep. You would think if you hear the lady announcing over and over and over again the same area, the captain would turn the boat to provide a good experience for all participants. We were happy to see the last group and many whales off in the distance. We also saw lots of dolphins on our side. We didn't come for the dolphins though, even though they were awesome. We also enjoyed the boat ride out and in to harbor. read more

We had a great time whale watching with Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises in Oct 2020. We saw about a dozen whales and even a full whale breach! Only issue we had was that there was no staff going around asking people to pull their masks up. It was mentioned at the beginning that everyone over the age of 4 needed to have a mask on. But there was no one going around checking so many people did not comply with the rules. read more

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises - at least 6 whales in this shot alone! - Whale Watching Tours Near Me - Barnstable, Massachusetts

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We had an AWESOME time on the Whale Watcher! One of the larger boats out on the Cape and specifically designed for whale watching with her 5 diesel engines and water jets. No propellers on this boat means less risk of harming the whales. The Whale Watcher can get you out to the Bay and easily keep pace with the fastest whale on the water, the finback. They are the only whale watching boat on the lower Cape besides the ones up in Provincetown, but because they are this far south, they have a longer trip to make to get out to the Bay or to the Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary. Early in the season (pre-Memorial Day) when the whales enter the Bay to feed, boats are limited to speeds of 10 knots to avoid collisions with these massive animals that are almost the size of the boat (how the whales know when it's Memorial Day is beyond me). It does get chilly out on the water, so dress in layers. The naturalists on board do a very good job of spotting the whales by their spouts, directing your attention to the best views and educating you on whale biology & behaviors. On this trip, we saw a dozen Finbacks, a Minke, some harbor porpoises, a rare Sei whale and an endangered Northern Right whale. The whole trip lasts 3.5-4 hours. If you go out later in the season, the boat can go a lot faster and farther out to deeper waters to see other species like Humpbacks and if you're really lucky, the biggest of them all, the Blue Whale. On-line ticketing was a snap and I was even able to find a coupon code to knock off a couple of bucks. Just remember to print out hard copies of your tickets to hand to the staff as you board because they don't do QR-code scanning. If you have your reservation number, but forgot to print them, just stop in at the ticket counter and they will gladly print them for you (just have your reservation code from your e-mail). And of course, get your t-shirt and refrigerator magnets at the gift shop on your return to shore. read more

We had a great time on the water today! The ship was clean and the crew was very nice and knowledgeable. read more

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises - Whale Watching Tours Near Me - Barnstable, Massachusetts

I'm so glad i talked my group into going whale watching here. It was four hours on a boat, the captain found us two humpback whales and made sure to keep changing direction so people on both sides of the boat could view the whales. We came up pretty close to them and they seemed very happy, waving their fins, flapping their tails & breaching for us. We saw a lighthouse on the way out to see and were given a lil history of the island we saw. I did go downstairs on the way back which gave me sea legs. I got a pretzel and ginger ale on the boat which was pretty reasonably priced compared to some of the other options they had. I highly recommend taking the time to go whale watching here. read more

Saw dozens of whales. Guides on the boat were highly informative. Definitely plan to go again next summer

First ever whale watching cruise and I was very impressed. The volunteers (ours was Jackie) made sure all the passengers got a chance to learn about the whales that could be seen during the trip. During the cruise we encountered strong winds and waves which significantly rocked the boat. The crew ensured everyone's safety and helped several folks who hadn't quite adapted to the rolling seas. During the trip four whales and over 25 dolphins were seen. A rocky ride but definitely enjoyable. I'll definitely be back. read more

The absolute BEST of the BEST- hands down!! Our extended family (of 10) thoroughly enjoyed our time out in May aboard their lovely boat! From their highly professional staff in the ticket office, gift shop and boat- we wish we could give an even HIGHER rating than 5 stars!! We marveled at the true LOVE our tour guide had for the area, her knowledge of the whales and other marine mammals we encountered, her insights and knowledge of the Cape Cod area... all in all a wonderful trip for our entire group!! We have gone on MANY Whale & Dolphin tours from Alaska to Florida, Cape Cod to Cape May... and this one is BY FAR the best, in every area!! HIGHLY recommended! read more

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The workers were great very knowledgeable the food was good would recommend this business

Very nice operation. Top notch staff. Beautiful boat. We saw all kinds of whales. Very educational staff as well. Highly recommend.

Great trip with a ton of whales. The naturalist was very good. Seats are comfortable. They do a good job of moving the boat around so everyone can view the whales, but you'll want to stake out a spot near the front of the boat. Bring food on the trip, especially if you have kids. The trips are 4 hours long and their galley is basically chips, popcorn and "nachos". read more

It was kind of long trip to get to the whales feeding place but it was soooo worth it!!!! There was so many of them. Joanne, marine biologist - superb. Definitely once in a life time experience. Sunscreen, sunglasses, cap, warm jacket needed (the boat reaches 35 mph speed) read more

We had a great time. The crew was very friendly and knowledgeable. We saw lots of whales. Boat was clean. I highly recommend this company!

Wonderful crew, saw so many dolphins and whales! Such a great time out on the water with HWWC! They gave us an education and looked out for these beautiful creatures in the water. Loved it! read more

What an amazing day we had on this cruise. We went on an afternoon in the beginning of July and saw over 50 humpback whales. They were right by the boat. We could smell their (awful) breath and I'm sure they could hear my squeals of excitement. Such beautiful animals. The guide who talks about the whales is very informative and interesting to listen to. The boat was nice. Definitely a great way to spend an afternoon. read more

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It doesn't get much better than this! We went out on the cruise on Labor Day, we saw approx 25 whales within 10 feet of our boat. The crew was informative, and really loved what they do. Katelyn was our leader and her passion for the whales really made this trip. The captain did a fantastic job of turning the boat so all patrons could see the whales. The boat is equipped with a cafeteria and the food is actually pretty good and affordable. Bring a jacket, camera, and cash for parking. I would strongly suggest anyone visiting the Cape go on this tour. read more

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises - Awesome tour. Kristen was aweso - Whale Watching Tours Near Me - Barnstable, Massachusetts

Wonderful experience!! So worth the money. Great staff aboard and very friendly. Guy behind the bar made an effort to make conversation with me. Boat was very clean and spacious. We saw about 11 whales. It was very interactive and I was thoroughly impressed. I will definitely be returning!!! read more

Went on a Wednesday for the 2:30 cruise. We got there fairly early (1:45) hoping to park and walk around before getting on the boat, but the whale parking was closed until the previous group got back and got out of the lot. We just drove around the neighborhood until closer to 2:00 when we were told to arrive. If you have even the slightest issue with motion sickness, I would definitely recommend taking something before getting on the boat. I get car sick and boat sick, but I took Dramamine and used the pressure point wristbands and didn't actually get sick. I wasn't feeling the best, but didn't end up getting sick, thank goodness. They also sell Dramamine on the boat. No matter the temperature, I would definitely recommend bringing a sweatshirt or windbreaker jacket. It wasn't cold necessarily, but the wind was nuts if you were on the sides of the boat or up front. We did not go up top, but I'd imagine it was also windy. Once you get to where the whales are and the boat slows and stops, it was quite comfortable temperature wise without the jacket or sweatshirt. So unless you plan to sit inside on the way out and on the way back in, bring a jacket! It took quite a while to get to where the whales were - an hour and a half, maybe. The ride out was a bit choppy, but nothing major. Once you arrive to where the whales are and the boat is more just sitting there, that's when the waves take control. Nothing to where it was dangerous, but you can just feel it a lot more once you're stopped. I kept my eyes on the horizon and that seemed to work well. We got to see quite a few whales, including one that breached (comes fully out of the water like you see on NatGeo). Apparently, that only happens 1 out of every 15 or so tours, so we were pretty lucky! The boat captain did a good job of moving the boat so that no matter where you were on the boat, you could see the whales. Unfortunately, for the breaching, it came so fast that he wasn't able to move, so not everyone saw it. We also saw pods of dolphins. The marine biologist on board was super knowledgeable and polite. The worst part about it all was that if someone got sick who was sitting on top of the boat, it came off the side onto the people sitting on the sides below. So just be careful of where you sit, step and walk. One of the workers on the boat said that it was the worst she'd seen with people getting sick and that it wasn't even that choppy out. Other than the people throwing up left and right, it was a great tour! read more

They were great! Super knowledgeable. Whoever the man is in his late 40s-wary 50s and seemed to be in charge was crabby to all his workers. It was uncomfortable. This trip is 4 hours and they do a great job finding whales. I could've gone for 2-3 hours and been completely satisfied. read more

Mid Cape Whale Watch. They truck from Barnstable Harbor to the Stellwagen Bank (the premier whale watching locale on the East Coast) in their specially designed jet-powered boat. Its not carbon neutral, but its an amazing experience. We have done this twice, and saw whales each time. This trip we saw Minkes, Humpbacks, and Finbacks. Awesome! read more

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises - Whale Tale - Whale Watching Tours Near Me - Barnstable, Massachusetts

This was hands down one of the most amazing experiences I have ever had. My husband didn't really want to go but even he had a good time. It was so surreal seeing these magnificent creatures up close. We seen several dolphins and humpbacks. They knew the name, age, and mother of every whale we seen. Boat was super clean. I would highly recommend. read more

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises - Whale Watching Tours Near Me - Barnstable, Massachusetts

Had an amazing time! Saw whales & dolphins & seals! Patient crew educated us along the way. Very windy, dress for colder weather on the water. read more

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises - Whale fluke - Whale Watching Tours Near Me - Barnstable, Massachusetts

So glad we were able to do this tour. I thought they did a great job directing everyone to social distance. The cost was at 40% capacity. They had green and red tape on the rails, directing people where to stand. Not everyone was following the rules, unfortunately. Most people were wearing masks most of the time. We saw a ton of whales, and dolphins. The narration was interesting. This was my birthday gift to myself, and I was so happy! read more

This was absolutely the highlight of our trip! I was nervous because I was afraid I'd get sick, bought the seasick bracelets, brought pepto, water and crackers just in case! I was fine! It's about an hour out or wherever we can find the whales and low and behold we had 3!!!! When our Naturalist/Narrator stated "Well we have 3 coming right at us" my heart jumped and there they were! So beautiful, the sounds and a tailwave! Then we did slightly see a Mommy and her Calf going under water to feed her! Also a weirdly shaped "fin" came at us and the naturalist explained it was a odd fish which I cannot remember the name! The photographer does take beautiful pics hung nicely throughout the building, although we did not purchase one. Staff was very friendly and informative. The narrator /naturalist was so informative loved listening! Beautiful day thank you! read more

It's like watching Nat Geo in real life! The crew on board makes it fun, informative, and memorable. And they sure know how to find the whales when they're hiding. read more

Awesome day! Have sailed a couple of times with them. Boat clean and well maintained. Staff well informed and offers great insight to whales. This weeks tour provided a bit more challenging for finding whales but they were persistent. Six and a half hours later we had seen dozens of whales and dolphins! Typical ride 3 1/2 to 4 hours. Cash only accepted on boat. read more

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Probably the best part of visiting the cape! Would hands down recommend this to anyone who has a like 3-4 hours of free time and is looking for something todo for the day. Great for all ages! You're definitely guaranteed to see whales & some dolphins- the tour guides were very knowledgeable as well. Sucks you have to pay 15 for parking (which is on top of a pretty steep price for this excursion!) Oh well can't let that part ruin it! read more

Great experience guided by an experienced crew that brought it all to life. Well done folks! read more

We come here every year and are never disappointed. The staff is friendly and we always end up seeing whales. We also have seen dolphins for the past few years which is always a treat. Me and my family love that we can see the whales so close and learn about them on this boat. read more

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises - Whale Watching Tours Near Me - Barnstable, Massachusetts

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This was our first whale watcher cruise ever, and it is safe to say that it exceeded our expectations. We knew the cruise would last between 3-4 hours. About 75 minutes into our cruise, we saw two whales - a mother and her calf - from a relatively close distance. It was a lovely and moving sight. Considering the time of the siting, we thought the cruise was over and we would be returning, but the naturalist said there was reported activity a few miles away. They kicked up the speed of the boat until we reached the area - and amazement upon amazement was right before us. We saw whales feeding in groups over and over all around the boat. The naturalist was very knowledgeable explaining what we were seeing and the significance of different aspects of the whale behavior and the coloring of the water. He reported that there were at least 50 whales in this area who were feeding at this time. Being novice whale watchers, we would have been happy seeing two whales and returning to port. Talking with others on this cruise, we found out that seeing one or two is very normal but seeing what we saw is very atypical. I was impressed at how the staff handled this outing. We could have turned around after seeing the first two whales. Choosing to extend the trip gave us the outing of a lifetime! We spent so much time at the second area that we were late returning. I'm sure no one complained. I said earlier that this was our first whale watching excursion, but we may need to make it our last because anything short of what we witnessed will leave us feeling underwhelmed. This cruise set the bar so high! read more

This was my second whale watch, my first was years ago in RI by another company and I was disappointed when we didn't see any whales. This whale watch made up for it! It was amazing how many whales we saw heading out to the main area. We stopped along the way to see a few minke and fin whales along with a humpback named Skateboard who was cruising along by herself. Then we approached two separate groups of humpbacks that had their calves with them (I think there were at least 7)! From what Joanne (the marine biologist narrating what we were seeing) said was there seemed to be a feeding ground nearby and that's why they were clustered together. As we were there several boats started to circle in order to get a view of the amazing sights. As it became crowded we backed off and moved on to two other humpback whales as Joanne mentioned crowding could cause inadvertent ship strikes. She knew all the humpbacks by name and told us about some of the dangers they face (ship strikes, tangling). Joanne is very knowledgeable and eager to share any and all information she has. She was awesome! I would definitely go on another whale watch. Not only did we get to see a lot of whales but the crew was respectful and cautious to ensure the whales weren't in any danger from our ship. A few tips: bring cash. Parking is $15 and the food offered in the galley is cash only. Joanne did mention it prior to boarding the ship and there is an ATM inside the gift shop/office area. There is also a videographer that takes video of the entire trip from the very top deck if you are interested in purchasing it. Bathrooms - there are three clean, normal bathrooms on the ship which is great! No worrying about having to hold it for 4 hours! Finally, the ship had just the right amount of people on it. There are two decks that you can look off and plenty of seating. We never felt like we couldn't go from one side to the other in order to see the whales because of overcrowding. read more

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An Excellent experience- it's about a four hour cruise out to see the whales and back but the time flies by. There is a naturalist on board with a microphone and speaker who explains what you're seeing and how to spot the whales yourself. Highly recommended! read more

First of all, we did have an amazing experience as far as actually viewing whales. That part was incredible. However, the boat was extremely full - there was zero room for any sort of 'social distancing' and it felt like some stranger was always pushing me out of the way. We arrived 40 minutes early and the top decks were already full, with people still trying to stand along the sides without seats. We got stuck in the back where, unbeknownst to us, was also the "smoking section". People were smoking back there the entire time. Sometimes as many as 5 or 6 people at a time. And some were throwing their cigarette butts into the ocean. For these reasons alone I would not recommend this company. read more

We had a great time once again. This was the first time coming back to Cape Cod in 16 years. Before that we were coming to this place to Whale Watch every year and every time was amazing. Guarantee to see whales, hard to imagine that you don't. Get there early to be one of the first to board and pick the best seats for the best view (upper deck). Staff were friendly and helpful and did an amazing job in keeping the vessel clean at all times. You have people in the reviews writing how the crew pulls out a tip jar....good! tip'em, these people work hard just like any other job to make sure you and your family have a great time! Thank you guys!!! Do bring a jacket/sweater as it does get pretty windy sailing from the cape out to sea. Only thing that was annoying was wearing the masks on board. Other than that, we had a blast! Coming back next year! read more

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Just returned from Cape Cod and did this Whale watching tour. It was amazing!! We were lucky to have a beautiful day and saw many whales. The narrarator was very knowledgeable and the captain was great at positioning the boat for great views. Boat was very clean and staff was cleaning throughout the cruise. Limited snack bar so eat before you go!! read more

We live on the Cape and whenever someone not from the area asks: What should we do that's an outside experience? the whale watch out of Barnstable Harbor is ALWAYS our top recommendation. A thoroughly professional and fun experience in every way. We sailed on Thursday, August 10 - our grand daughter's 7th birthday and our present to her. When we first began seeing whales spouting and rolling in the distance she was beside herself with excitement and after numerous humpbacks swam very near us she turned around and shouted - THIS IS THE BEST BIRTHDAY PRESENT EVER!!! we knew we'd made the perfect choice. The naturalist on board was fantastic and even pointed out a few whales they've given names to (identified by the patterns of white and black on their tails). The crew was fantastic and the boat was spotlessly clean, which is really quite amazing with them doing two excursions a day. The snack bar is way above average for a trip of this type. If you are coming to the Cape and you don't plan to do anything else you will NOT be disappointed!!! read more

Planned this excursion for my family. We have a 11 year old, 9 year old, and 19 month old. It was a wonderful experience and the staff of the ship was informative and kind. Our naturalist (John) kept us informed as to where the whales were. We saw a lot of minke and finback whales as well as some harbor seals floating along. The ship was very clean and comfortable. Word of advice - dress warm... we ended up purchasing hoodies and jackets in the store. But they were reasonably priced and very nice quality! I would highly recommend them to my family and friends. read more

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My family and I took a trip with Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises this August (2020) and we were all absolutely blown away by the experience. We saw a nursery pod of ~100 dolphins very early in the trip, and the captain was able to create a wake that enticed the dolphins to surf it -- it was incredible. Later in the trip we saw at least 10 to 12 enormous humpback whales, including mothers with their calves, slapping the water with their huge fins and leaping out of the water in dramatic spinning breaches. The marine biologist on the microphone was exceptionally talented and experienced, he added a lot to the experience. The crew were also very capable and pleasant. Our only concern was how many people refused to wear their masks. The crew did their best to enforce the rules, but some people are just foolish and selfish. Overall, fantastic experience with a great team. read more

Breathtaking close up of these magnificent beasts. Really makes you appreciate the earth. Also makes ya feel guilty about using disposable dinnerware and plastic bottles including the ones they sell right on the boat. Amazing experience. Worth every penny. Must do. read more

Great company to take you whale watching. We had terrific weather and the captain and guide had us on multiple humpback whales in our journey. Saw 3 generations of the same whale family in our trip. Highly recommended! read more