It is an experience that is not easy to forget, seeing a whale come out of the ocean for the first time. I can still recall that I was standing on the deck of a boat off the coast of Maine, the wind was good, the salt in the air, and then all of a sudden someone shouted, “There! Something dark moved the water, and a humpback rose in a spray of mist right before our eyes and nothing more. Whale watching in Maine is not a tour, but an experience that is forever.
There are different species of whales that can be found in Maine, which include the humpback, finback, and minke whales. Occasionally, even the threatened North Atlantic right whale is found in the cold, nutrient-rich waters of Maine. The season is usually from late May to early October, and it peaks in mid-summer. Whether you are traveling or not, these are the top whale watching locations in Maine, prices, addresses, family-friendliness, and even where you can have a bite after a whale watching tour.
Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. – Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is considered to be one of the most favored whale-watching centers in Maine, and rightly so. The sightseeing is worth the trip because it is located close to the Acadia National Park. The Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company has large, comfortable vessels that are used to view whales, and in the process, they have on board naturalists who explain everything in a manner that is easy to understand, even to the kids.
It is a ride that takes 3-4 hours to the sea. We also encountered two humpbacks feeding and several harbor porpoises on my trip. The crew made it fun and educational, pointing out seabirds and describing the behaviors of whales.
The boats are fitted with toilets and seats inside, which is useful in case you are carrying kids along. It was secure and well-structured and therefore suitable for families.
Bar Harbor has food after you are done with your tour. You can take a stroll to Geddy to have casual seafood, or have a lobster at Stewman lobster pound, or have an ice cream along the waterfront. Though it is not a classic beach town, there is a little coastal strip and picturesque waterfront promenades.
Address: 1 West Street, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Average Price: $75–$95 per adult, $45–$65 per child
Child-Friendly: Yes, very family-friendly
Cap’n Fish’s Whale Watch – Boothbay Harbor
The town of Boothbay Harbor is a little more relaxed and low-key than Bar Harbor. Cap’n Fish has been in business for decades, and they are familiar with these waters. The crew was super friendly and experienced, and the marine biologist on board made the trip look like a floating classroom, but in a good way.
The boat tour will bring you to the Jeffreys Ledge, which is a well-established whale feeding area. We also encountered a finback whale, which is huge, during my visit. It was unbelievable to see such a big thing move so well.
The harbor in itself is beautiful. I also had lunch in the Bistro Tapas Bar and Restaurant of Boathouse, which is on the water after the tour. And then there is the Ports of Italy of another kind. Although Boothbay is not a destination that has sandy beaches, the coastal regions and rocky shorelines around the area are ideal places for scenic walks.
The boats are safe and child-friendly, but it would be a nice idea to pack snacks and jackets, as it may be cold at sea.
Address: 42 Commercial Street, Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538
Average Price: $70–$85 per adult, $40–$55 per child
Child-Friendly: Yes
First Chance Whale Watch – Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport is a little more close encounter whale watching. The boats are smaller, thus making the voyage personal. This is a good choice in case you are a person who avoids a lot of people.
When I first arrived here, the sea was big, and the captain was telling me about the history of fishing here. We had minke whales and even some playful dolphins. It was a relaxed environment.
Subsequently, Kennebunkport boasts beautiful beaches within its locality, such as Gooch’s Beach, where families can have a rest. In terms of food, I would suggest the Clam Shack when it comes to fried clams and lobster rolls, and Alisson restaurant when it comes to having a more sit-down meal.
Its prices are a little lower than other ports, and thus it is a rather cost-effective alternative.
Address: 4 Western Avenue, Kennebunk, ME 04043
Average Price: $65–$85 per adult, $45–$55 per child
Child-Friendly: Yes, smaller boats, but still family-friendly
Odyssey Whale Watch – Portland
Odyssey Whale Watch is highly convenient if you are staying in Portland. Leaving the Old Port district, one can easily combine whale watching with exploring the city.
There is marine life in abundance in the Gulf of Maine waters here. Among the most dramatic scenes I have ever witnessed was humpback lunge-feeding, which we saw during my trip. The boat was spaciously viewed with experienced guides who made sure that no one was bored.
There is also fantastic food in Portland, very close to the dock. Eventide Oyster Co. has oysters, Scales has seafood, and Portland Lobster Company is casual. Although Portland is not a beach destination, but rather a harbor city, Willard Beach in South Portland, just next door, provides a relaxing beach alternative after your visit.
Address: 170 Commercial Street, Portland, ME 04101
Average Price: $75–$90 per adult, $50–$60 per child
Child-Friendly: Yes
Tips for Planning Your Whale Watching Tour
It is possible to make or break your trip; according to my experience, there are a few things. First, dress in layers. It is cold on the open sea even in the summer. A jacket, a light ora windbreaker, is necessary.
Second, reserve in advance during the high summer seasons. Tours are not empty, in particular, in July and August. In the morning, the sea is usually calm, and this is more family-friendly (and those who are likely to develop motion sickness).
By way of seasickness, take precautions, should you be of a queasy nature. The Atlantic is erratic, yet the boats are stable.
Bring a camera, sunglasses, and sunscreen. And above all, provide patience. Wildlife can never be guaranteed, but that is the magic. It is hard work to see a whale surface, and when it happens, it is well deserved.
Are Maine Whale Watching Tours Worth It?
Absolutely. No matter whether you are going out with your love, friends, or children, Maine whale watching tours are unique. The rough coast, sea air, and the opportunity to see huge sea creatures in their native environment are strong.
Tour prices usually vary between 65 and 95 dollars per adult, which does not seem excessive given that tours take several hours and are accompanied by professional narration. This is a good family activity since most companies are child-friendly.
And the best part? Following the seaborne adventure, you will not be far away, as you will have wondrous seafood, quaint harbors, and picturesque shorelines, so no need to worry.
Whale watching in Maine is not just about seeing whales to me. It is also about the expectation, the open water, the excitement on the boat, and the stories that you will be telling back at home.
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