Humpback Whale ~ Drawing courtesy Dolphin Fleet of Provincetown
Right Whale ~ Drawing courtesy Dolphin Fleet of Provincetown
WHALES PLAYED AN IMPORTANT PART in Provincetown’s economy in the 19th century and this tradition is carried on today as thousands of whalewatchers depart from Provincetown each year to observe, rather than kill, these now endangered mammals in their natural habitat.
Whale watching as a science and tourist attraction started on the East coast in 1975 when scientist Stormy Mayo from the Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies teamed up with charter fishing boat Captain Al Avellar to observe and study the three species of whales which are found in the waters around Provincetown: the fin, humpback, and right whale.
Fin and humpbacks are regularly seen from April to October, and scientists have discovered that Cape Cod Bay is an important breeding ground for the extremely rare North Atlantic right whale.
The spring and fall are excellent times to go whalewatching in addition to taking advantage of the restful off-season ambiance of Provincetown. All whale watching boats leave Provincetown from MacMillan and Fisherman’s Wharf in the town center (see map below). Summer is a great time to whalewatch, too! Arrive early to ensure a parking space.
Provincetown Map ~ Harbor
Dolphin Fleet started whale watching on the East Coast in 1975 taking passengers of all ages to see magnificent whales. Today all trips are designed to enhance awareness of whales, marine life and habitat that surrounds Cape Cod. We have highly trained Captains and Naturalists. The cabins are heated and air-cooled with food service; breakfast, lunch, snacks, soda, beer and cocktails available.
307 Commercial Street, Provincetown, MA, 02657
800 826-9300, 508 240-3636
Provincetown Center for Coastal Studies conducts scientific research with emphasis on marine mammals of the western North Atlantic and on the coastal and marine habitats and resources of the Gulf of Maine; promotes stewardship of coastal and marine ecosystems; and conducts educational activities and resources that encourage the responsible use and conservation of coastal and marine ecosystems. A nonprofit environment organization for research and education in the coastal and marine ecosystems, the Center is internationally known for its extensive research on the great whales found in this area. The Center is open year round offering fields walks, lectures and educational programs to the public. Visitors are encouraged to call the Center with sightings of injured or dead marine mammals or sea turtles 508 487-3622.
115 Bradford Street, Provincetown, MA, 02657
508 487-3622
Sightings guaranteed. You’ll be thrill at the sight of the great whales: Humpback, Finback, Minke, Right and Pilot whales from our the open decks lounge. A climate controlled main cabin. Food and beverages serve. A first class on the water experience.
Fisherman’s Wharf, 309 Commercial Street, Provincetown, MA 02657
1 800-225-4000, 508 487-1102
A private Whale Watching and Fishing Charter company, owned and operated by the Avellar family, originators of whale watching on the East Coast.
P.O. Box 908, Provincetown, MA, 02657
508 444-2SEA, 323 497-2490
