The photos attached will give you a better idea of what the cruise is like. The boat has a top level (all outside) and a bottom level (inside and outside). In the indoor portion of the boat, there is a food counter, which serves basics like burgers, hot dogs, chili, and, of course, clam chowder! There are drinks (both alchoholic and non) available as well. Even on 90 degree days, it does get chilly out on the water, so bring a sweater or a raincoat. Even though we only spotted one whale during our cruise, my three children (ranging in age from 4 to 11) were fascinated by all of the other sights (waterfowl, other boats, and the open water in general) and were not bored for one minute.

And yes, we saw whales. The most fascinating sighting was a large Humpback female and her calf. They swan just under the surface of the water in prefect synchronization. Every few minutes, mother & calf would breach just above the water. What a beautiful site. We also saw several Right Whales and Minke Whales.

There are just a few of the companies that offer tours:

Portuguese Princess Whale Watch
1-800-442-3188
www.PrincessWhaleWatch.com

Cape Cod Whale Watch
1-877-409-4253
www.capecodwhalewatch.com

Hyannis Wale Watcher Cruises
1-888-942-5392
www.wales.net

Almost all companies advertise "Guaranteed Sightings", offering a free pass for another cruise if there are no whale sightings, but this is very rare. All of the boats head for the same area, the Stellwagen Bank, a newly designated National Marine Sanctuary.

Pick up guidebooks at any tourist office and you will find coupons for $2.00 off each ticket. There are also discounts for seniors, children and groups.

Don’t forget the camera and lots of film, a jacket or sweater, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

The boats are comfortable with enclosed heated cabins, handicapped accommodations, and upper sun deck. Most offer sandwiches, hot hogs, snacks, sodas, water, beer, and cocktails.