Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Provincetown

One of the joys of Cape Cod is spotting whales swimming in and around the feeding grounds at Stellwagen Bank, about 6 mi off the tip of Provincetown. On a sunny day the boat ride out into open ocean is part of the pleasure, but the thrill, of course, is in seeing these great creatures. You might spot minke whales; humpbacks (who put on the best show when they breach); finbacks; or perhaps the most endangered great whale species, the right whale. Dolphins are a welcome sight as well; they play in the boat's bow waves. Many people also come aboard for birding, especially during spring and fall migration. You can see gannets, shearwaters, and storm petrels, among many others. Several boats take you out to sea (and bring you back) with morning, afternoon, or sunset trips lasting from three to four hours. All boats have food service, but remember to take sunscreen and a sweater or jacket—the breeze makes it chilly. Some boats stock seasickness pills, but if you're susceptible, come prepared.

The municipal parking area by the harbor in Provincetown fills up by noon in summer; consider taking a morning boat to avoid crowds and the hottest sun. Although April may be cold, it's one of the better months for spotting whales, who at that time have just migrated north after mating and are very hungry. Good food is, after all, what brings the whales to this part of the Atlantic.

Dolphin Fleet tours are accompanied by scientists from the Center for Coastal Studies in Provincetown, who provide commentary while collecting data on the whale population they've been monitoring for years. They know many of the whales by name and will tell you about their habits and histories. Reservations are required. Ticket office: Chamber of Commerce building at MacMillan Wharf, Downtown Center. 508/240-3636 or 800/826-9300. www.whalewatch.com. $30. Tours mid-Apr.-Oct.

The Portuguese Princess sails with a naturalist on board to narrate. The snack bar sells Portuguese specialties. Tickets, 70 Shank Painter Rd., ticket office, east of Downtown Center. 508/487-2651 or 800/442-3188. www.princesswhalewatch.com. $30. Tours mid-May-Oct.

Barnstable

On Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises out of Barnstable Harbor, a naturalist narrator comments on whale sightings and the natural history of Cape Cod Bay. Trips last about four hours, and there are concessions on board. In July and August you can cruise at sunset, too. Reservations are recommended. Millway Marina, off Phinney's La., Barnstable. 508/362-6088 or 888/942-5392. www.whales.net. $35. May-Oct.