What to Expect

• Whale-Watching Trip for Up to Two Adults
  • Short presentation by an expert naturalist about the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, whales and, other wildlife species you are likely to see
  • Scenic views of the historic buildings and landmarks of Gloucester
  • A narrated tour of Gloucester’s historic harbor
  • Some of the most experienced whale-watch captains on Cape Ann
  • The most comfortable high-speed whale-watching vessel in Gloucester
  • Watching the whales for about 1.5 hours with live commentary by a very experienced naturalist
  • Visiting many different whales—and different species of whales—in their natural habitat
  • Sightings (almost) guaranteed: over 99% of the whale watches during the past 30+ years have been successful!

The Vessel

• ‘The Privateer IV’
  • Designed specifically for sightseeing
  • Fast cruising speed
  • Latest safety equipment
  • Fully U.S. Coast Guard certified
  • The heated, spacious inner cabin
  • Two clean modern restrooms
  • Wall-to-wall carpet
  • Wrap-around windows for inside viewing
  • Open-air sun deck with a 360-degree view
  • Wide beam for stability and less motion sickness
  • Large natural wood tables and cushioned seats
  • Galley is stocked with sandwiches, snacks, drinks, and a full bar (food and drinks can be purchased separately)
  • Low-profile hull closer to the water for better wildlife sightings

Good to Know

• Departure location: 63 Rogers St., Gloucester, MA
• Departure time: 8:30AM
• Valid for 8:30AM trips any day
• Valid for 1:30PM weekday trips in July and August
• Not valid for 1:30PM weekend trips
• Adult tickets are for ages 17–59
• Learn how to prepare for your trip

About 7 Seas Whale Watch

As many as 15 species of whales populate the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. The mission of 7 Seas Whale Watch is to bring passengers within eyeshot of these enormous sea creatures as they thrash about, breaking the water's surface with their enormous heft and diving gracefully back below. Seven of the species that populate the area are defined as great whales, which means they reach 30 feet at full growth. So while the tours spend 90 minutes in the whales' feeding area, customers might spot humpback whales, finback whales, minke whales, and even Atlantic white-sided dolphins. As the whales appear, grandiose and graceful, an expert naturalist describes the different species and their behaviors. Though whale sightings are never guaranteed—the whales are wild and act entirely on their own whims, much like tenured philosophy professors—7 Seas boasts a 99% success rate for spotting whales, and they offer rain checks if whales don't appear. Customers can scan the seas from the sun decks or heated cabins of The Privateer IV. The boat was built to accommodate 300 passengers, though 7 Seas' trips top out at 149 passengers to ensure space, comfort, and a good view. What's more, 7 Seas Whale Watch is a local family business running since 1983. All the employees share a passion and respect for all living creatures – whales and people alike. The company is honored to be Trip Advisor’s #1 local attraction based on traveler reviews in 2012-2022 and it's constantly getting 5-star reviews.