We recently hopped aboard the Asteria, one of Boston Harbor City Cruises' high-speed catamarans, for the New England Aquarium Whale Watch and had an absolute blast! As a Southern NH mom who loves sharing new adventures with my kiddo, I can happily say this one-of-a-kind, family-friendly day trip definitely belongs on your family's bucket list!
Boston Harbor City Cruises (BHCC) is running multiple whale watch trips daily through November 2025. To book your next family outing visit: New England Aquarium Whale Watch in Partnership with Boston Harbor City Cruises
What to expect: Gorgeous ocean and city skyline views, cool sea breezes and up-close encounters with whales and other incredible wildlife at The Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. The BHCC staff were welcoming and accommodating, while the New England Aquarium naturalists onboard made the experience both engaging and informative.
Our favorite moment? Spotting our first whale. Total cliché, I know—but nothing beats the look on your kids’ faces and the boat-wide gasp of excitement echoing in perfect harmony. SO COOL!
Helpful Things to Know Before You Go (with Your Baby Calves in Tow🐋): With a little pre-planning, bringing your little ones on a whale watch is totally doable. We spent the day with our in-laws and three inquisitive kiddos (ages 2, 6, and 10). Our whole trip was smooth sailing and seriously fun. Keep reading for helpful info and tips to make your family trip just as memorable!
⏳ Duration & Accommodations: The cruise runs 3 - 4 hours and has both indoor and outdoor seating. Snag one of the few indoor tables if you’re early, they go fast!
TIP: Bring along a small toy or a card game for some fun family bonding during the ride. Want fresh air? Head up to the top deck like we did but hang on to your hat! (Seriously, my husband almost lost his) It’s all fresh air, ocean views, and standing room only.
🛥️ Dress: Dress for the weather, then bring an extra layer. It was 90 degrees when we went, and yes at one point, we all needed that extra layer!
TIP: Skip the flip-flops and go with supportive sneakers - you’ll be on your feet plenty and mastering those sea legs in no time!
Food & Drinks: Cruising through lunch or snack time? A full bar is available onboard along with light snacks for purchase. Cash and most major credit cards are accepted.
TIP: Traveling with a toddler whose snack list is basically crackers... and only crackers? Same here. I called ahead and confirmed: light snacks and water bottles are allowed on board.
👶 Strollers: Strollers are allowed and ours came in handy since we didn’t have seating on the top deck.
TIP: Bring a compact stroller if you can. Some areas are a bit narrow, and you may need to fold and carry it from time to time.
🌊 Seasickness: If you are prone to motion sickness, BHCC suggests taking a motion sickness remedy before you board the boat. If rough seas are expected, BHCC will send a rough seas alert or cancellation notice via email before your cruise.
TIP: The medication works best if taken prior to travel, consider taking it before you leave the house. Once you’re feeling queasy, it may be too late!
**Please check with your doctor before trying anything new!
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Where to meet:1 Long Wharf Boston, MA
Boarding begins 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. Plan to arrive at the gate at least 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start to your trip.
Suggested Parking: Boston Harbor Garage at 299 Milk St, Boston, MA 02110 - Bring your garage ticket for validation.
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