Whale Watching in Gloucester, Mass.

Article by Eric H.


Whale watching has been a favorite New England travel attraction for many years. I remember taking my first whale watching tour about 30 years ago in Gloucester, Mass., and the memories are permanent. At first scary, the experience turned out to be safe and, ultimately, educational and fun. To see whales within very close proximity truly shows their enormity, nothing like the cartoons or other sights of whales on television (at least way back then, on our 19-inch Zenith television). Plus, it's just great to be out on the water in the good old New England summer time!

If you are looking to whale watch these days on the North Shore of Massachusetts, 7 Seas Whale Watch is one of the highest regarded. A family-run business for 26 years, 7 Seas Whale Watch offers "a more sophisticated narration about the whales, their habitat, and the importance of preserving the ocean environment than with anyone else." Although whales aren't as plentiful as in the past, Gloucester, in relative terms, is a breeding ground, giving you one of the best chances in New England to view whales.

With a new vessel (fully licensed and U.S. Coast Guard certified vessel equipped with the latest in navigation and safety equipment) and knowledge of the whaling grounds -- courtesy of a marine biologist and other naturalists -- 7 Seas has been drawing local raves from several people we have known through the years for its professional and entertaining presentation. Its business seems to be mentioned every time in conversation about whales. We're looking forward to going this summer, hope to see some whales, and, overall, have a whale of a good time!

By the way, 7 Seas is located next to the Gloucester House restaurant, one of my personal favorite seafood restaurants in New England. With great inner harbor water views, lobster and other North Atlantic seafood selections (as well as a fantastic New England clam chowder!), the Gloucester House has become a New England seafood dining tradition. They have really updated the place through the years, making it a nicer dining experience now than it has ever been before.

We'll follow up with a personalized write-up on 7 Seas. If you have been on 7 Seas or any other New England whale watch, please feel free to write your experiences here!

Seven Seas Whale Watch , 63 Rogers St., Gloucester, MA. Tel. 1-888-283-1776