Planning Your Trip Aboard the Whale Watcher

ARE THERE RESTROOMS ON THE BOAT?
Yes, we have two restrooms on the lower deck and one on the second deck.

IS THERE FOOD AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE ONBOARD?
Yes.  Our galley offers a variety of hot and cold items for breakfast, lunch and in-between, snacks, hot and cold beverages and a full bar. We accept credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay and cash.

HOW SHOULD I DRESS? WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
It can be 10 to 15 degrees cooler out on the water, so dress in layers – even in the summer.  Flat, comfortable shoes or sandals with rubber soles are recommended. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, prescription meds, snacks or drinks – NO GLASS – that can fit in a six-pack size cooler.

WHAT DOES “GUARANTEED SIGHTINGS” MEAN?
On the rare trip without a whale sighting, all passengers receive a transferable pass for a free future whale watch. Passes never expire and can be used at any time depending upon availability. There is no refund. Reservations are required and passes must be presented at check-in. Call or email our ticket office at 1-800-287-0374 or reservations@whales.net to book your trip.

CAN I BRING A STROLLER?
Yes, as long as it is not a double-wide stroller. You may have to fold it while boarding the vessel, but there is usually space inside the cabin for strollers to maneuver comfortably.

WHAT ITEMS ARE NOT PERMITTED ON THE BOAT?
Weapons, alcoholic beverages, glass containers, drones, double-wide strollers, oversized coolers and pets are prohibited onboard.

IS THE BOAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?
The whale watcher is not fully handicap accessible. However we can accommodate standard size manual wheelchairs and walkers. We cannot accommodate electric wheelchairs, scooters or oversized manual wheelchairs.  The main deck restrooms and outside seating are accessible with a 2″ threshold to enter the main cabin and snack bar area. We do have several wheelchairs available on site for passengers to use and staff available to assist with boarding.

ARE PETS ALLOWED ONBOARD?
For the comfort and safety of our guests, pets and emotional support animals are not allowed.

WILL I GET SEASICK?
Some people are susceptible to motion discomfort. Over-the-counter medications can help only if taken one hour before the trip (Bonine is a non-drowsy formula). Acupressure bracelets (Sea-bands) and ginger are alternatives to medications. There is less motion on the main deck of the boat than on the upper decks. Stay outside if you feel uncomfortable.

CAN I CHANGE OR CANCEL MY RESERVATION?
Yes. We are happy to change or cancel your reservation if needed. Check our Cancellation/Change policy here and then either call or email us at 1-800-287-0374 or reservations@whales.net.

WHO IS J & J FISHING?
PayPal handles our credit card processing. If you see a PayPal charge on your credit card statement, it is referencing your HWCC ticket purchase. Your purchase may appear on your credit card statement under our corporate name, J & J Fishing.

 

VIDEOS OF YOUR TRIP?
In the Wild Productions is a professional video company who will be filming your entire trip including any scenery, whales, and wildlife you might see. You can order a video of your trip from the videographer on the boat. If you have any questions about the videos after the trip, please contact them directly at https://inthewildproductions.com/

Please be sure to visit our Policies Page for detailed information regarding our change/cancellation policy and safety policy.

8 Tips for Enjoying Your Whale Watch

1. Be Rested Get a good night’s sleep. Being rested will keep you alert and guards against the effects of sun and sea. Remember: your whale watch is 3 ½ -4 hours long and you can’t go home early.
2. Stay Hydrated Drink plenty of water. This is especially important on hot summer days offshore. Being hydrated minimizes headaches, nausea, and can help prevent motion discomfort. Remember: sodas, juices and beer are not water. Drink water to stay hydrated.
3. Wear Appropriate Shoes Comfortable sneakers or walkers are best. High heels compromise balance on a boat; resist the urge. Flip-flops and sandals make your feet susceptible to stubbed toes.
4. Bring Sunglasses The most important tool for viewing whales is Polarized sunglasses. Polarized sunglasses cut surface reflection, even on cloudy days, and enable you to see far more detail. You can buy them anywhere ($20 and up), but remember to buy Polarized.
5. Bring Sunscreen Direct sun and reflection from the water make sunscreen essential. Even on cloudy days it is possible to get sunburned. Look for waterproof, sweat-proof formulas with a SPF rating of 30 or higher. Apply liberally and frequently.
6. Bring Your Camera Any camera is better than no camera! If you can choose, bring a camera with a zoom feature to get close-ups. If you are a real pro, pack a polarizing filter, lens cloth, and both wide-angle and zoom lenses. Charge your batteries. Protect lens surface from whale breath. It has oils that are difficult to remove.
7. Personal Items Bring playing cards, games, books or electronic items, whatever you wish. You may bring snacks and drinks in cans or plastic bottles only.
8. Use Our Resources Our naturalists are experts and love sharing their knowledge and enthusiasm with our guests. Take some time with your family to come up with interesting questions about the whales and Cape Cod.

Our vessel operates in compliance with NOAA’s Northeast Whale Watching Guidelines and are active WhaleSENSE participants.