Q. What is the best time of the season to see the whales?
A. The actual height of the season, (when we see the greatest numbers of whales in the area), can occur anytime between April and October. It varies each season and depends on the feed distribution throughout the Gulf of Maine. If we averaged the numbers of whales sighted each month for all the years we have been in business, July would come out on top. This is simply because July is consistently a good time. However, we have had years where each of the other months was the height of their particular season.
The important thing to know is that the feeding grounds of the whales off our coast are some of the most consistent in the world. It is extremely rare that we do not see multiple whale sightings here at any point throughout our season. It is because of the consistency of our sighting conditions that we are able to guarantee sightings on every trip. Our guarantee policy states that if, in the unlikely event you do not see whales, you will be given a rain check which is good indefinitely.
We suggest that you plan your trip when it is most convenient to come. Each trip is so different and is truly enjoyable in it’s own way. It is simply amazing to be able to experience so many of these endangered animals so consistently throughout the entire season. We have found that our passengers, on each of our trips, go away with an experience of these beautiful animals that they never forget. We look forward to being a part of that experience with you.
Follow the sighting trends and changes throughout the season at our web site under current sightings reports.
Q. What should I bring on my whale watch?
A. Appropriate Clothing
Remember that a 7 Seas whale watch is a nature trip out into the North Atlantic to see animals in the wild. In April, May, and early June, dress for winter. Ocean temperatures are still very cold an any breeze over the ocean can make it uncomfortable if your not dress appropriately. Even gloves are a good idea. You can always take off clothing if you are too warm. We do have a heated cabin, however, you will want to be out on deck while we are on the whales.
During late June, through September, a jacket or sweatshirt is usually sufficient.
A camera and lots of film. (Film is also available on board at reasonable prices should you run out.)
Rubber soled shoes or sneakers for good deck traction
Q. Do I need reservations?
A. Reservations are strongly recommended. Many trip book out. By calling us and reserving space on the vessel, you can be sure there is room for your party aboard. Should your plans change, you can cancel a non group reservation up to two hours before departure with no penalty charge. Even when the trip is not booked out, reservations are important so that we may be able to contact you before you make the trip here if there is a schedule change or trip cancellation. Trip times are subject to change due to a special group arrangement or trips can be called off due to rough sea conditions even though the weather seems fine on shore. Reservations can be key in your not being disappointed in your plans.
You can make reservations by calling us toll free at: 1-888-283-1776. A credit card number is required to confirm a reservation and is used for holding purposes only. Nothing is charged to the card until the day of the trip if you choose that method of payment. Generally, one day’s notice is enough time to get on a certain trip. However, on weekend afternoon during July and August, please reserve as soon as possible.
Morning trips, generally, have fewer people on them.
Q. How long are the trips?
A. Trips last approximately 4 hours; depending on the vicinity and activity of the whales. Departure times are at 8:30AM and 1:30PM, daily June through August (see schedule). Again, departure times are subject to change and advanced reservations are strongly recommended.
Q. How about seas sickness?
A. Some people are prone to motion sickness. If you are concerned with this, there are many ways to prepare for your trip.
Prescription ear patches seem to work for most people.
Another remedy is to take ONE motion sickness tablet the night before your trip and ONE again two hours before your trip. Do not overtake these tablets.
Overtaking this medication can make you drowsy and feeling quite out of sorts.
Many people like to wear protective wrist bands as an added precaution. We suggest that this be done in addition to one of the other methods.
Never starve yourself. You should always have something in your stomach, (preferably bready), when you are on the ocean.
Most often, very few passengers get sea sick. A little forethought for those who are prone to motion sickness can go a long way in determining how one enjoys their whale watch experience.