Can You Spot a Whale on These Two New Hampshire Whale Watching Boats?
Summer is here, and we've got boats and cruises on the brain.
We recently wrote about the cruises with the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company, including these special party ships that are a blast-and-a-half. You might catch a glimpse of a whale while on such a boat, but what if you're exclusively looking to see these large creatures in their natural habitats?
Luckily, these two whale watching ships in New Hampshire can help make that happen.
Granite State Whale Watch in Rye
Granite State Whale Watch is New Hampshire's "only full-time whale watch", and has been in operation for more than 40 years according to their website.
Most of the GSWW cruises journey out to Jeffrey's Ledge, where the cold water provides an ideal environment for creatures that whales love to snack on, like krill and plankton. According to the website, this area has "the largest population of whales on the New England coast".
So, what animals could you see while you're out there? GSWW says that past sightings have included:
"40 ton Humpback Whales, 70 ft. Finback Whales, Minke Whales and highly endangered Right Whales. Other species sighted include Atlantic White Sided Dolphins, Harbor Porpoises, Pilot Whales, Harbor Seals, Sharks, Tuna and Ocean Sunfish."
The website explains that there's a 99% sighting record for whales, so you're highly unlikely to go without seeing anything. But, on the off-chance that the waters are still and nothing makes an appearance, GSWW will offer you a free pass that's valid for the next 365 days.
For more FAQ's, click here.
This year's whale watching tours will be offered from now till August 28. Click here to view the schedule and make a reservation.
P.S. Speaking from experience, these whale watching cruises are a fun time, but it's best to avoid them if you're easily prone to seasickness.
Al Gauron Deep Sea Fishing and Whale Watching in Hampton
Want to experience some deep sea fishing in addition to whale watching? You just might want to check out Al Gauron Deep Sea Fishing and Whale Watching.
According to their website, Al Gauron is a family-owned business that's offered different fishing trips and whale watching cruises to the public for 75+ years.
For those interested in fishing trips, Al Gauron has a variety of selections including full-day fishing, morning and afternoon mackerel fishing, evening fishing, striped bass fishing, a tuna experience, and more.
There are also specialty pirate and fireworks cruise options, as well as private charters.
Looking to spot some whales instead? Al Gauron's 4-hour whale watching cruises will be running now through early September.
Click here for more information or to make a reservation.