Plymouth MA – Complete Guide To Whale Watching
Nestled along the picturesque shores of Cape Cod Bay, Plymouth, Massachusetts makes for a fantastic summer whale watching destination. Here, the Atlantic is rich with whales that spend their summers feeding in preparation for their annual migration. Plymouth also happens to be a fascinating historical town steeped in pilgrim heritage. From museums to monuments, restaurants, shopping, trails, beaches and more, there’s plenty to do in addition to whale watching. Read on to discover the best months to go whale watching, which kinds of whales you might see and what else to do while you’re here. Whether you’re an experienced whale watcher or a first timer, Plymouth and its waters are waiting to enthrall you.
When is Whale Season?
Whale season in Plymouth, MA stretches from April to October of each year. This is when the ocean around Plymouth is rich in whale activity and weather conditions are favorable for whale watching.
Spring marks the arrival of migratory whales as they journey northward from their winter breeding grounds in the Caribbean. Whales are drawn to the cooler waters and abundant food supply around Cape Cod. Particularly in April, May and June, whale watchers may spot species such as humpbacks and minke whales actively feeding.
As summer unfolds into July and August, the likelihood of sightings increases significantly, with humpbacks becoming especially active during this time. In the later months of September and October, summer feeding begins to wind down. The whales are preparing to migrate south for the winter. Whale season ends around October and varies slightly from year to year depending on the weather.
Best Whale Watching Tours
Hands down, the best whale watching in Plymouth is with Whale Watch Plymouth by Captain John. With nearly 80 years of experience on Cape Cod Bay, the company only hires the most passionate and skilled captains. They also employ a whole team of naturalists, at least one of which will be sent out on your whale watching tour. The onboard naturalist provides commentary and education on the surrounding seascape and marine ecosystems that will enrich your tour experience beyond comparison to any other back alley whale watching tour you may find on the wharf.
The boat is a double decker vessel complete with restrooms and both indoor and outdoor areas to explore. There’s a full snack bar onboard serving hamburgers, hot dogs, pizza, small snacks and alcohol, all for extra purchase. It’s always best to book this 4-hour experience as soon as you know your date. Here’s their current availability:
Whale Species Around Plymouth
Humpbacks are the most frequently seen whales during a whale watching tour out of Plymouth because of their natural acrobatic behavior. They’re always jumping out of the water and making big splashes to catch prey and communicate with other whales.
Fin whales (really big) and minke whales (pretty small) are known to feed here as well. Whale watchers are lucky if they see either of these. There’s also the critically endangered North Atlantic Right Whales which are often spotted passing through in the very early spring. These are rare to see, and they’re also stressed by boats so it’s best to leave them alone.
In addition to whales, common sightings include Atlantic white-sided dolphins, sharks, seals, fish, turtles, and birds. These animal encounters illustrate the richness and diversity of the marine ecosystem as well as the interconnectedness of ocean animals. Watch for seals basking in the sun on rocky outcroppings. Mackerel and haddock attract predators like sharks. Seagulls follow boats and inhabit the surrounding shoreline. Observing all the animals together adds depth to your tour and raises awareness of the importance of marine conservation.
What Time of Day To Go?
People always ask what’s the best time of day to go whale watching. The answer is, whenever YOU feel like going. The whales feed and breach all day from dawn to dusk. Any time of day is good. But here’s one thing – always schedule your most desired activities early in your trip. That way, if there’s unfavorable weather or an unforeseen cancellation, you’ll still have some days left of your trip to try again.
Other Top Things To Do in Plymouth
Plymouth was founded in 1620 when English Pilgrims aboard the Mayflower landed at Plymouth Rock after more than two months at sea.
The oldest street in town is Leyden Street, which has been continuously inhabited since 1620. Walk west on Leyden Street towards the town square and you’ll see a big old church, built around 1899. Near this downtown area of Plymouth you’ll be in close proximity to the Plimoth Grist Mill, Plymouth Rock, Mayflower II (a replica of the original ship), and Brewster Gardens – all worth seeing.
The best thing in town is the Plimoth Patuxet Museum which is about a 5-10 min drive from downtown Plymouth. The museum includes a life-size replica of the original pilgrim settlement from the 1600s. You’ll find thatch roofed houses with costumed actors and all of the tools and materials early settlers used, all against the backdrop of the ocean they traveled across.
Final Thoughts
Plymouth is a really great place to go whale watching, and it’s a great place to learn about early American colonizers. So if you’re coming here just for whale watching, be sure to spend some time in this historic town as well. And if you’re coming here for the history, then you would be remiss if you didn’t schedule a whale watch tour!