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Monomoy Island

A remote and notably beautiful island located just southwest of Chatham on Cape Cod, Monomoy Island is home to the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge .  A herd of gray seals , and a fascinating history of intrigue inhabit what was once a sleepy fishing village on Monomoy Island .

What You Can Expect from the Monomoy Island Tour

Monomoy Island excursions can be planned with the help of any of the number of local charter services , including the Monomoy Ferry and the family-run business of Monomoy Island Excursions .

These sightseeing cruises last around an hour and a half, taking you on a winding tour of locations along the Nantucket Sound like Wychmere Harbor, Stage Harbor, iconic Cape Cod lighthouses like the Chatham Lighthouse , and the Monomoy Wildlife Refuge. On the majority of cruises, a trained naturalist provides visitors with insight into the history of the area and its wildlife.

The main attraction on these cruises, however, is normally the wildlife themselves! The amount of gray seals that can be seen swimming along the boat and sunning in the harbors is phenomenal, and many also see peaceful whales and the intimidating great white sharks that call Monomoy Island home.

Fare prices are usually around $30 for children under the age of 12 and $35 to $40 for passengers aged 12 years and up, though group rate charters are generally available. You should reserve your spot on the tour at least 24 hours in advance, as most ticket sales within 24 hours are final and non-refundable.

We recommend bringing a camera and binoculars for this unforgettable tour of an exquisite New England island. Some charters also suggest taking this cruise during the weekend, as they experience less crowds during this time. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a jacket or sweatshirt are also recommended.

Cruises to Monomoy Island can often also be chartered for private events, such as birthday celebrations, weddings, and more. Other charters have cruises that stop on South Monomoy Island for day trips and walking tours of the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge if desired. There are plenty of Monomy Island seal tours to check out as well!

New England Vacation Rentals – Your Cape Cod Vacation Experts

Contact our team of reservation specialists to learn more about excursions to Monomoy Island and other fun-filled activities and attractions that you’ll encounter on Cape Cod when you book your stay in one of the fantastic vacation rental properties that we offer, including our vacation rentals with pools .

Browse our vacation rentals in Cape Cod here!

[map] [pin tooltip=”Monomoy Island”]41.5640331,-69.9986201[/pin] [/map]

Photo Credit: 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service | www.fws.gov/northeast/monomoy/

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CHATHAM SPORT FISHING

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Monomoy Island Excursions

Seal Tours Marine Charters, Sales & Service Private Charters Water Tours Wildlife Tours/Bird Watching

  • 731 Route 28 Harwich Port MA 02646
  • (508) 430-7772
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Experience Cape Cod's beauty and nature from the water. Join us for an adventure on Nantucket Sound as we explore the waters around Harwich and Chatham. Take in the sights around Stage Harbor and Monomoy Island, one of the most spectular natural refuges and important ecosystems in the USA. Our comfortable 43 foot catamaran, The Perserverance, features open and covered seating areas. Our trained naturalist will help spot and identify a myriad of birds, seals and other wildlife. View three of the Cape's most popular lighthouses. Bring your camera and binoculars! Great adventure for the family! Perfect for family reunions, birthday celebrations, weddings and charters. Call for reservations and pick up your tickets at our ticket office, conveniently located across from Brax restaurant. The Perserverence is moored a one minute away at Saquatucket Harbor. Check out more information, posted under Documents (at right) and plan to join us for a very special Cape Cod memory. 731 Route 28 Harwich Port, Massachusetts 02646

Stage Harbor Lighthouse

Stage Harbor Lighthouse

Private Charter

Private Charter

Seals Around Monomoy Island

Seals Around Monomoy Island

Harbor Cruise

Harbor Cruise

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New England Wanderlust

Cape Cod , Massachusetts  ·  July 26, 2023

10 Best Places To See Seals On Cape Cod In 2024

Hoping to see some seals during your trip to Cape Cod? Well, let me tell you … SAME! Even though I’ve been countless times over the last 10+ years, I still to this day get so excited to spot seals on Cape Cod during my trips.

This post is all about my tips on the best places to see them, best seal tours to take, how to spot them, and other fun facts about the seals on Cape Cod. With that, let’s get right down to it!

A Harbor Seal on Cape Cod.

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Can You See Seals On Cape Cod?

Absolutely! And the best part? It’s easy. There are a few spots around Cape Cod where you can just walk right up and see them for free, and then lots of beaches where you’re very likely to see them swimming pretty close to the shoreline.

There are also some great tours you can go on that take you out where lots of seals hang out.

Best Towns For Seal-Watching On Cape Cod

The absolute best town to see seals is Chatham, which is on the “elbow” of Cape Cod. This town is known for being one of the most idyllic towns on the Cape with charming cottages, gorgeous hydrangea displays, and a wonderful Main Street for shopping. But it’s also got the most places where you can spot seals (included the easiest one!).

Seals sunbathing off the coast of Cape Cod.

Where To See Seals On Cape Cod

1. chatham fisher pier in chatham.

The Chatham Fish Pier & Market is the easiest and best place to see seals on Cape Cod.

The best and easiest place to see seals on the Cape is the Chatham Fish Pier. This is where the fishermen come in each day with their fresh catches, and the seals are pretty much always waiting around the dock for them to come back, hoping to snag some treats.

This area is completely free to visit, and you’ll get a pretty close look at the seals, too, which is why this is the number one location I suggest if you’re hoping to see seals on your visit. They’ve built a really nice deck platform for visitors to enjoy watching the seals from, too.

The great thing about visiting the Chatham Fish Pier to see seals is that it’s also home to a seafood market and takeout place. They serve up a really good lobster roll here, as well as other awesome and fresh seafood dishes. You’ll find picnic tables to enjoy your food on, and there’s also a public bathroom with a water bottle refill station nearby.

Parking at the Chatham Fish Pier: In the summer, parking here is pretty tough. The lot is rather small, and since people are coming to eat at the seafood market and spot the seals, it fills up fast. You can always try your luck, but I actually recommend parking closer to Main Street, and taking a scenic walk over to the pier so you don’t have to worry about parking.

My favorite way to walk here is to take Seaview Street from Main Street, and then turn left once it ends at Shore Road. Seaview Street is filled with lovely houses and hydrangea gardens in July, and it ends right at the gorgeous Chatham Bars Inn.

Once you arrive at Shore Road, it’s another 7-ish minute walk to the Fish Market. In total from the intersection of Main Street and Seaview, it’s about a 15 minute walk.

Pro Tip : Another great option if you’re making the walk is to check out the Chatham Bars Inn for a nice lunch. I would recommend reservations if possible, but this is the only luxury resort on Cape Cod, and they have some really nice restaurants overlooking the water!

Best Time To See The Seals At The Chatham Fish Pier

Around noon (12pm) is a great time to see the seals at the Fish Pier. This is when the fishermen start arriving back at the pier with their hauls, and the seals start to swim around the boats more when the fishermen are back.

I’ve been in the morning around 8-9am, and I didn’t see any seals, and it’s possible you won’t see any after 3-4pm. 12-2pm is a good sweet spot.

2. Any Atlantic Ocean Beach Between Chatham & Provincetown

Cape Cod seals swimming along the coastline.

Pretty much any beach you go to between Chatham and Provincetown along the Atlantic coast is likely to have seals swimming close to the shoreline. I don’t think I’ve ever gone to one of these beaches and not seen at least one seal.

Here are some of these beaches where I’ve had the most luck with seal sightings:

  • Coast Guard Beach in Eastham
  • Marconi Beach in Wellfleet
  • Cahoon Hollow Beach in Wellfleet
  • Ballston Beach in Truro
  • Race Point Beach in Provincetown

But really, any beach along this stretch of coastline is a great place for seal watching! See my tips later in the post on how to spot them in the water.

3. Wequassett Resort & Pleasant Bay In Harwich

If you happen to be staying at the Wequassett Resort, or you’re just visiting for lunch or dinner, be sure to swing by their dock along their waterfront, by the LiBAYtions Bar. People that work at the hotel have told me that they have one seal in particular who likes to hang out there and wait for food scraps – and he’s very well fed because he often gets nice cuts of fish from the kitchen staff 😉 They’ve even named him, and of course, I’ve completely forgotten it!

Another option is to book a sailing tour with Down Cape Charters, which departs from that dock at the Wequassett. During the tour along Pleasant Bay, you’re likely to see a few seals, in addition to the fella that hangs by the dock. We saw about 3-4 seals on our sunset sailing charter with them!

4. Monomoy Island – Chatham

While the Chatham Fisher Pier is one of the best mainland places in town to see the seals, Monomoy Island off the coast of Chatham is also amazing. This is where many of the local seal tour companies take you (more on that in a bit, though!).

The only way to get to Monomoy is by boat, so a tour is really the best option. Once you arrive, you’ll see a lot of seals swimming in the water, and sunbathing

5. Chatham Lighthouse Beach In Chatham

Chatham Lighthouse Beach is one of the most scenic areas in town. It’s guarded by the beautiful lighthouse across the street, and even the overlook at the parking area is just so gorgeous. However, this is also a great spot to watch for seals in the water!

The downside to Chatham Lighthouse Beach is that in the summer, parking is restricted to 30 minutes only, and it’s decently patrolled. It doesn’t offer a lot of time to walk down to the beach and back. So really, the best way to visit is to park downtown, and walk about 1 mile each way. However, if you visit outside of the summer season, parking isn’t monitored, and you can usually stay longer.

6. Race Point Lighthouse In Provincetown

A group of seals on Cape Cod, just off the shoreline at Race Point Lighthouse.

Okay, so this is kind of redundant, because the beach at Race Point Lighthouse technically qualified as one of the ones along the Atlantic, but I wanted to give it its own section because not many people know about this.

There’s a small little beach area right at Race Point Lighthouse, at the very tip of Race Point Beach, that’s only accessible with over-sand driving, a very long walk along the beach, or a fun hike along the Hatches Harbor Trail. For this season, not many people get out to the lighthouse, but the beach area here always has quite a few seals hanging out. And this part of the beach usually isn’t very busy, making a peaceful experience.

I go into detail on the Hatches Harbor hike in my Cape Cod hiking post, which you can find by clicking here .

Awesome Seal Tours On Cape Cod To Check Out

Now, onto the tours! Tours are a great way to not only see the seals, but also learn about them and the surrounding areas. The guides are filled with interesting and fun information, and are great at answering questions. The tours are also all very scenic, and great for photos. So, here are the best tour companies on Cape Cod offering seal watches!

7. Monomoy Island Excursions

Departing from Harwich, Monomoy Island Excursions is a great option for a seal tour. Taking visitors out to the waters surrounding Chatham, you’ll see plenty of Gray seals in the water, and possible sitting out on the rocks.

Tours last around 75 minutes, and parking is free!

8. Beachcomber Boat Tours

Beachcomber Boat Tours offers a seal cruise that departs right from Chatham! They typically takes visitors around the waters of Chatham Harbor and Pleasant Bay, can also customize a private charter, and offer boat shuttle service from the Fish Market in Chatham and Lighthouse Beach.

Reservations are made my calling them directly.

9. Provincetown Seal Tours

For a quick tour with an expert guide, the Provincetown Seal Tour may be the best option for you. Run by Flyers Boat Rentals (the same company that runs the Long Point Shuttle), these tours are only about 45 minutes long, and get right to the point. Since there are a lot of seals that hang out up in Ptown, this is a great options for those staying in the area, or the Outer Cape.

10. Blue Claw Boat Tours Seal Cruise

Just north of Chatham in Orleans, you can hop aboard a seal tour with Blue Claw Boat Tours. This company only offers private charters at the moment, but for a group, family, or special occasion, this is one of the best ways to go on a seal watching cruise!

Charters are customizable, and even offer a combined seal watching tour, with an excursion to Tern Island in Chatham, a secluded beach that makes for a very special experience. Reservations can easily be made online.

Tips For Going On A Seal Cruise:

✔️ Pack a sweater or jacket, even in the summer. There’s a small chance you won’t need it on a very hot and humid summer day, but it’s always colder out on the water!

✔️ Apply that sunscreen! The reflection of the sun on the water will make you burn faster.

✔️ Bring binoculars and a good zoom lens on your camera if you want nice photos of the seals. Check out my “what to expect” section at the end of this post for more tips on spotting seals in the water.

✔️ Pack some cash for your guide’s gratuity. If they do a good job on the tour, it’s a wonderful gesture of appreciation.

Important Note : Monomoy Island Ferry & Seal Cruises in Chatham used to be a top seal cruise on Cape Cod, but the family that owned the company retired from the business. When you read this post, it’s possible that their website will still be up, but if you go to their Facebook page, you’ll see their announcement that they are now closed for business. I just wanted to point that out in case you came across them in older articles, or online.

What Kinds Of Seals Are On Cape Cod?

Harbor seals and Gray seals are the two main types you'll see on Cape Cod.

There are two main kinds of seals you’ll spot on Cape Cod: The Gray seal, and the Harbor seal. The Gray seal is the most common one, and this is the kind you’re more likely to see, especially if you visit in the summer.

Gray seals are also the larger of the two, and usually darker in color.

Best Time Of Year To See Seals On Cape Cod

You can see seals on Cape Cod year-round! Gray seals hang out in the area all year long. Harbor seals, however, are usually only on Cape Cod September through May. If you’re hoping to spot a Harbor seal, fall and winter are the best times to look.

What To Do If You See A Seal While Swimming On Cape Cod

When you’re swimming at the Atlantic beaches, it’s very important to know what to do if you spot a seal in the water. The best thing to do is swim away from the seals, and go back to shore. If you’re about to go into the water, and see seals approaching, stay on the shoreline until they’ve passed.

Why is this important?

The first season is because seals are (unfortunately!) shark food. These guys are what sharks are hunting for, so you really need to keep your distance.

Secondly, it’s for your safety, and the safety of the seals. Disease can spread from human to seal, and vice versa, and it’s important to not come in contact with a seal. Always admire their cuteness from a distance!

What To Expect When Spotting Seals

A group of seals on Cape Cod, just off the shoreline at Coast Guard Beach.

You should know that you don’t actually see much of their bodies. When you’re scanning for seals along the shoreline, you’re really looking for their heads. That’s what usually pops out of the water while they’re swimming. And while they do often come pretty close to the shoreline, and even though Gray and Harbor seals are quite large, spotting just their heads can be tricky sometimes.

So, when scanning the water, just keep an eye out for that distinct seal head. Sometimes you’ll see just one seal swimming on its own, and sometimes there’s a cluster, so you really just have to keep an eye out and see what you can find.

As far as how often they’re swimming by on the beaches, this varies a lot. On a beach day, I sometimes spot my first seal before I’ve found my spot in the sand, and sometimes it takes over an hour. If you’re walking on an Atlantic beach, I would say allow yourself at least 30 minutes, and you’re likely to see one in that timeframe. But it can vary.

If you’re hoping to catch a good look at them in the water, it’s a good idea to bring binoculars, or look for them on your camera with a telephoto lens.

If you’re hoping to take pictures of them, I can tell you that you’ll need a good zoom lens on your camera. With your phone, or a basic camera, the seals won’t look like much once you snap the photo. But with a good zoom lens (probably at least 70-100mm), you’ll get a nice shot! If you’re at the Chatham Fish Market, though, you should be able to get some cute photos with your phone because they’re pretty close by!

Where You WON’T See Seals On Cape Cod

You won’t see seals in the waters of the Nantucket Sound or Cape Cod Bay. It’s really just along the Atlantic coastline you’ll find them. You also won’t see them in the ponds, lakes, or salt marshes.

More posts you may enjoy:

  • Awesome Waterfront Restaurants On Cape Cod
  • Best Lobster Rolls On Cape Cod
  • Visiting Cape Cod For The First Time: What To See & Do
  • Best Towns To Stay In On Cape Cod
  • Best Times To Visit Cape Cod
  • Best Beach Towns In New England
  • Ultimate Guide To The Cape Cod National Seashore Beaches

And here are some of my Cape Cod town guides you may find helpful:

  • Best Things To Do In Chatham, MA
  • Best Things To Do In Wellfleet, MA
  • Best Things To Do In Harwich, MA
  • Best Things To Do In Dennis, MA
  • Best Things To Do In Falmouth, MA
  • Best Things To Do In Brewster, MA
  • Best Things To Do In Provincetown, MA
  • Best Things To Do In Sandwich, MA

That’s A Wrap On Seeing Seals On Cape Cod

How excited are you to now go looking for seals on Cape Cod during your next visit? I hope the answer is very . Whether you’re hoping to spot a few during your time on the beach, book an official tour, or just hang out at the Chatham Fish Pier, one thing’s certain – seeing these little guys is always such a treat. Wishing you lots of seal spotting on your trip!

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My favorite lobster roll on Cape Cod, and of all time, is at Sesuit Harbor Cafe in Dennis.

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Whale Watching on Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a world-class destination for whale watching and seal watching. Go whale watching along Stellwagen Bank, one of the world’s finest whale feeding grounds located off Cape Cod Bay. Seal watching cruises are another fun on-the-water experience, putting you right up close with these adorable mammals. Daily whale watch and seal tour excursions are offered in season, led by experienced naturalists!

@visitcapecod Cape Cod Bucket List. ☑️🐳 📹: Hyannis Whale Watcher #capecod #whales #whalewatching #whalewatch #epicadventures #foryou #visitcapecod #letsgothere #tiktoktravel #visitma ♬ Dancing in the Moonlight - Jubël

When is the Cape Cod whale watching and seal watching season?

Whale watching season on Cape Cod begins mid-April and runs through October. Peak migration period for the whales is from June through September.

Why is whale watching such a popular activity on Cape Cod?

Cape Cod is a world-class destination for whale watching because of Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground just off of Cape Cod that attracts a large percentage of the world's whale population annually. Stellwagen Bank consistently ranks among the top 10 places on the planet to see whales in their natural habitat.

How much does a whale watch on Cape Cod cost?

Rates range from $40 to $70, depending on passenger age. Tours typically last 3-4 hours and are led by professionally trained naturalists.

Where do whale watch and seal watch tours leave from?

Whale watch excursions leave from three local ports – Barnstable, Provincetown and just over the bridge in Plymouth. Seal watch tours operate locally out of Harwich and Chatham.

What should I bring with me on my Cape Cod whale-watching or seal-watching trip?

Suggested items to bring include sunglasses, sunscreen, a jacket, binoculars, a book for the downtime, and most importantly, a camera!

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Seal, whale, and shark tours cape cod and the islands.

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

November 09, 2023

Embark on an exhilarating marine adventure along the scenic shores of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and Plymouth. Join us as we dive into the world of seal, whale, and shark tours Cape Cod.

Cape Cod seal, whale or shark tours offer you a unique opportunity to explore the abundant marine life that graces these coastal waters. From playful seals on Cape Cod to majestic whales in Nantucket Sound and even the elusive Cape Cod sharks, these guided expeditions promise unforgettable encounters with some of the ocean’s most captivating creatures.

The Best Seal, Whale or Shark Tours Cape Cod

1. chatham shark tours.

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Chatham Shark Tours stands as the trailblazer in the Cape Cod region for seal, whale, and shark tours. As the first of the private Great White Shark Tours on Cape Cod, they offer unparalleled experiences on a custom-designed vessel with a tower, ensuring an exceptional adventure. With Captain Darren at the helm, who has led more white shark tours than any private business, their advanced local knowledge guarantees the finest and safest tours in the world.

2. Down Cape Charters & Boat Rentals

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: 2173 Route 28 City/State/Zip Code: Harwich, MA, 02645

Down Cape Charters & Boat Rentals offers an extraordinary wildlife adventure along the picturesque Cape Cod coast, including Chatham, Monomoy Island, and Nauset Beach. Renowned as “Shark Alley,” this region provides a unique opportunity to observe majestic Cape Cod sharks in their natural habitat. Knowledgeable naturalist guides educate passengers about white shark anatomy, conservation efforts, and the increased sightings of Cape Cod sharks in recent years.

The experience also includes observing the local seal colony, highlighting the delicate balance between seal conservation and public safety. Whether you choose a Private Charter or Group Tour, their experienced team, including a spotter pilot, ensures an unforgettable encounter with these remarkable marine creatures.

3. Freedom Cruise Line

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: 731 Rte 28 City/State/Zip Code: Harwich Port, MA 02646

Freedom Cruise Line offers an array of exciting seal, whale, and shark tours Cape Cod, including Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and Plymouth. They provide a 2.5-hour whale watch in Nantucket Sound and a 1.5-hour private seal tour in Chatham Harbor.

For a more immersive experience, guests can join lobstering or oyster farm tours, actively participating in the catch and learning about the local ecology’s significance. With small group sizes and interactive elements, Freedom Cruise Line ensures unforgettable adventures, making it the perfect choice for marine enthusiasts seeking educational and thrilling excursions in these coastal waters. Advance booking is essential for offshore tours.

4. Beth Ann Charters

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: MacMillan Pier City/State/Zip Code: Provincetown, MA 02657

Beth Ann Charters is a renowned excursion provider operating in the Cape Cod region, offering thrilling private seal, whale, and shark tours from Provincetown Harbor. Their tours run from May through October, providing an intimate alternative to larger companies.

Known for their exceptional reputation, Beth Ann Charters boasts the only 360-degree views on Cape Cod. Experience endangered right whales in Cape Cod during the spring and majestic humpbacks and finbacks throughout the season.

For families, their Kids Sea Creature Cruise offers an opportunity to discover Cape Cod Bay’s diverse marine life while creating cherished memories. Comfort, adventure, and wildlife await on their top-notch vessels.

5. Blue Claw Boat Tours

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: 69 Barley Neck Rd City/State/Zip Code: Orleans, MA 02653

Blue Claw Boat Tours offers unforgettable seal and wildlife excursions in Cape Cod. Their Seal Watch Adventure Cruise departs from Orleans, taking guests to Chatham Harbor, where they can observe seals on Cape Cod in their natural habitat. The small boat ensures up-close encounters with these marine mammals.

For a more immersive experience, the Beachcomber Expedition and Seal Tour provides 1.5 hours onboard and an additional 1.5 hours on Tern Island in Chatham Harbor. This uninhabited island offers opportunities for relaxation, picnics, swimming, beachcombing, and soaking up the sun. Both tours are private, requiring reservations for an exceptional wildlife adventure.

6. Monomoy Island Excursions

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: 731 Route 28, Unit 3 City/State/Zip Code: Harwich Port, MA 02646

Monomoy Island Excursions offers thrilling seal, whale, and shark excursions in the Cape Cod region, including Nantucket and Plymouth. Their tours explore Monomoy, a Barrier Island near Chatham, teeming with gray seals.

Besides these adorable creatures, passengers may spot seabirds, fish, whales, or even sharks. The tours also showcase Cape Cod’s rich maritime history through expert naturalist guides, and the high-speed catamaran ensures a comfortable small-group experience. With tours running throughout the day from late April, Monomoy Island Excursions promises an unforgettable wildlife adventure in the scenic waters of Cape Cod.

7. BlueWater Entertainment

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: 436 Old Queen Anne Rd City/State/Zip Code: Chatham, Ma 02633

BlueWater Entertainment offers an exceptional marine adventure in the Cape Cod region, specializing in intimate and educational wildlife excursions. Their renowned whale watch tour, limited to just 6 guests, promises an up-close encounter with majestic whales.

Thrill-seekers can opt for the Shark Tour, conducted either from the sea or a spotter plane, offering a unique Cape Cod experience. With Coast Guard-compliant boats , BlueWater ensures safety and comfort.

Guests are encouraged to bring essentials like sunscreen, snacks, layers for varying weather, sunglasses, and anti-motion sickness medication. The company provides safety gear, fishing equipment, and licenses for fishing trips.

8. Selkie Charters- Cape Cod Sunset Private Charter

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: 100 mountain ash Rd City/State/Zip Code: Hyannis, MA 02648

Selkie Charters offers a unique experience with their Cape Cod Sunset Private Charter. This excursion combines the best elements of various tours, providing an intimate and crowd-free adventure on the water.

While the main focus is on enjoying the breathtaking Cape Cod sunset, passengers often spot seals and occasionally even whales during the journey. With guaranteed spectacular sunset views, this private charter promises an unforgettable experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing and scenic outing on the waters of Cape Cod.

9. Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: 269 Millway City/State/Zip Code: Barnstable, MA 02630

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises is a renowned excursion provider in the region, offering captivating seal, whale, and shark tours Cape Cod. Their vessel, “The Whale Watcher,” features three levels for optimal wildlife viewing. With expert naturalists guiding the tours, guests receive both educational and entertaining insights into the marine world.

For those seeking an exclusive experience, the company offers charter tours for private groups. The scenic journey to the Atlantic Ocean includes views of saltmarshes, a lighthouse, and potential sightings of critically endangered right whales in Cape Cod Bay. Tours run daily from mid-May to September, typically lasting 3.5-4 hours, providing ample time for whale watching.

10. SeaSalt Charters

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: PO Box 908, City/State/Zip Code: Provincetown, MA 02657

SeaSalt Charters is owned by the founders of Dolphin Fleet, but brings visitors a more personalized experience in a smaller vessel. Getting up close to whales in Cape Cod is the adventure of a lifetime, and the boat you’ll journey in will give you just that experience!

On a private or semi-private charter tour, you’ll have the chance to ask all of your questions and have a fun time learning from the whale watching captain. A smaller vessel enables the boat to get nearer to the animals (in a manner safe to humans and animals, of course) so you can observe their magnificence up close. The maximum capacity is 6 guests, and tours last 3.5-4 hours.

11. Dolphin Fleet

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: 309 Commercial St City/State/Zip Code: Provincetown, MA 02657

Dolphin Fleet, based in Provincetown, stands as one of Cape Cod’s pioneering tour operators, renowned for its whale watching excursions. Their seasoned naturalists enhance the experience by providing in-depth insights into the region’s marine life.

These tours prioritize education, ensuring that passengers not only witness breathtaking sights but also leave with a wealth of newfound knowledge. Dolphin Fleet even guarantees whale sightings, offering future use tickets in the rare event of no sightings.

With four vessels, including two-level viewing decks, they operate from April to October, offering 3-4 hour trips. Additionally, their Sunset Whale Watch in June, July, and August adds a touch of magic to the experience.

Town of Plymouth

1. captain john boats- cape cod and plymouth.

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: 10 Town Wharf City/State/Zip Code: Plymouth, MA 02360

Captain John Boats offers exhilarating seal, whale, and shark excursions departing from both Provincetown and Plymouth. These four-hour tours, led by marine biologist guides, provide an opportunity to witness the captivating marine life off Cape Cod.

The spacious vessel features two open viewing decks and a climate-controlled indoor lounge, ensuring a comfortable experience. While onboard, passengers can indulge in food and drinks, including alcoholic beverages.

With a remarkable 99% success rate in spotting whales, Captain John Boats even offers complimentary passes for future trips in the rare event of not encountering these majestic creatures. Excursions operate exclusively in July and August, departing from MacMillan Wharf in Provincetown.

1. Nantucket By Water

seals-whales-shark excursions on cape cod and the islands

Address: Slip 1011 Straight Wharf City/State/Zip Code: Nantucket, MA 02584

Nantucket By Water, formerly known as Shearwater Excursions, is a family-run eco-tour company founded in 1999, offering unique seal, whale, and shark excursions to individuals and families of all ages. Located on Nantucket, their tours cater to various tastes for adventure, from leisurely harbor tours to wildlife sanctuary explorations.

Rachael Perkins, the founder, coordinates reservations, event planning, and serves as a personal concierge. Captain Max Perkins, a licensed captain with over 15 years of experience, guides the tours. Alex Perkins, another licensed captain, shares his love for Nantucket’s waters. Captain John Stobaugh, well-acquainted with Nantucket, pilots the Minke, and Renee Perkins assists with marketing and branding, contributing to the company’s growth.

Final Sighting

These seal, whale, and shark tours Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, and Plymouth open doors to an underwater world filled with awe-inspiring wildlife. Whether you’re seeking the playful antics of seals, the majestic presence of whales in Cape Cod, or the thrill of spotting sharks in the ocean, these guided tours provide an intimate connection to the ocean’s wonders. So, don’t miss your chance to create lasting memories and witness these incredible marine creatures in their natural habitat.

Learn more about the rescue work of marine animals on Cape Cod .

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The best seal tour on Cape! - Monomoy Island Excursions

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  • Harwich Port - Things to Do    
  • Monomoy Island Excursions

The five of us took this two-hour tour of the seals near Monomoy and Chatham. It was a beautiful... read more

seal tours in harwich ma

Took the Seal Tour. It was mostly touring the harbors and looking at the houses on land but we did... read more

seal tours in harwich ma

The best seal tour on Cape!

Best location, best crew! Seal Cruise leaves Saquatucket Harbor in Harwich, MA. Fun to see the beautiful houses on the waters edge on the way to the seals in Chatham. So many seals. Boat has covered seating and open seating which makes it great for all. Family owned and operated too! When we returned we left our car in the parking lot and ate at Brax. Super convenient.

seal tours in harwich ma

I heard of this trip through a friend and am so happy I did! The Captain was very well educated in the area, and we explored lighthouses, bird and sea wildlife, and it was so nice to get out on the water during this crazy pandemic! Great 1 1/2 hour trip and will definitely do it next time I’m in cape!

My husband and I did this trip for the first time in 2015, and it was awesome. Today, it was fun, but in comparison to the last seal trip it was ok. The first time the guide was very interesting and entertaining, but today it was as if they were going through the motions. It started out with the "prickly" woman at the sales counter, who was rather condescending. I will list some positives though too. The boat ride was smooth, even with choppy water. The boat was clean, and has a cover for shade, but plenty of visibility anywhere you sat.They also tried to make sure that we got a good view of the seals. Beautiful scenery of Chatham, sandbars, and Monomoy Island. Trip is between an hour to hour and a half. Fun for all ages.

seal tours in harwich ma

This was a fun trip to Monomoy Island to see the seals and the surrounding harbors. Halfway out, a thick fog developed in the area which lended a very mysterious aura to our New England adventure. We rode through the fog to the shallow waters of Monomoy where dozens of spotted and very large seals frolicked. They seemed to be as curious about the boat’s passengers as we were about them. I believe our guide’s name was Melissa. She did a wonderful job describing all the abundant surrounding wildlife. This trio is a highly recommend. My husband and I were both thrilled to discover that there were seals on the east coast. An up close peek was one of the highlights of our trip.

In 2016 and 2017, these Seal Cruises were AMAZING…They took us to the other side of Monomoy Island where HUNDREDS of seals were sunbathing on the beach and swimming in the water. It was BREATHTAKING. Now over the past few years (we took another cruise Summer of 2019 and now just recently Summer 2020), they have changed the "Seal Cruise" to a "Seal and Harbor Cruise". This area of the Cape is SO fortunate to be home to thousands of these beautiful creatures, and that is what the tour should focus on…not the Harbors…We were so very disappointed that they changed the tour. The website shows images of the hundreds of seals on the beach, and mentions the sheer number you will see, and that this will be the main attraction, but alas it is not…..They say when you make a reservation, try to do it during high tide, but we went during high tide, and they still did not bring us to the hundreds of seals :( ….The tours now consist of going to one area for about 15 min of the 1 1/2 hour tour to see a few seals just popping their heads out of the water…Cute but nothing to the extent of seeing hundreds of them up close sunbathing on Monomoy….This is our PLEA to please bring back that tour, and make the Seals the main attraction again, PLEASE! They are simply jaw droppingly beautiful to look at - much moreso than the harbors….We rent our house out and bring big groups to you, so thank you for considering !!

Loved the trip. Loads of seals and local history too. My 20 year old enjoyed it too! We sat in the front of the boat - definitely pack a sweatshirt. Wished I had my binoculars with me, would have been a plus.

Outermost Harbor Marine

Outermost Adventures Seal Tours

Beach Shuttle

Seal Cruises in Chatham, Cape Cod at Outermost Harbor Marine

Outermost is the best launching site to leave from for a seal tour on Cape Cod. Many times in the summer the area just outside of the marina will hold hundreds of seals! (drone photo below).  Our Seal Tour consists of a 1hr journey from the marina along the inside channels of Chatham harbor in our 24’ tour boat. We can accommodate up to 15 passengers. We are able to quietly place the boat in and amongst the seals as they dive and swim boat-side in shallow water. Pack lightly as this is a quick trip, but please bring: a camera, an extra layer, and sunscreen.

Tour times are typically on the hour.

All Shuttles & Tours leave from Outermost Harbor Marine

OuterMost Harbor Marine

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seal tours in harwich ma

Sightings guaranteed – or FREE trip!

seal tours in harwich ma

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seal tours in harwich ma

book now! limited space available. Private hire available.

Private hire available please email [email protected] to arrange private hire trips.

Open all year round, usually weekends and school holidays.

Capacity April to October  1- 45 passengers .

Capacity November to March 1- 12 passengers .

There are currently around  250 seals in the Walton backwaters, a healthy breeding population which has risen from only 5 in 1986.

We take you through the backwaters to Oakley creek, known as Hamford Water Nature Reserve, where the seals enjoy resting on the mudbanks.

Dogs are only allowed on Private hire trips. Not on public trips.

In addition to seals, a variety of birds can be spotted including the Wigeon, Pintail, Ringed Plover, Curlew, Dunlincan, Sandpipers, Gannets and Arctic Skuas.

To avoid boarding the wrong boat such as the ferry which is also yellow, please look for the boat with the blue cover.

Accessibility: To get to the pontoon from the street level, there are 40 steps, with good grip plus another 3 steps to get into the boat. There are handrails the whole way and onto the boat. Please email [email protected] if you have more questions about this.

seal tours in harwich ma

SINGLE TICKET

Summer season (April to October)

Winter season (Nov to March)

PRIVATE HIRE

All year round, arranged via email only

Summer season, arranged via email only

seal tours in harwich ma

Sightings guaranteed! – So far every single trip has seen lots of seals but if you don’t see seals close up you get a free trip!

What if it’s raining? – If the weather isn’t perfect we will still depart. The seals love rain, wind, sun, clouds and we love it too!

If it is windy you get wet from the sea splashing into the boat, sometimes a little and most times a lot. Please leave a dry change of clothes in the car.

Departing from Harwich this is a truly wonderful  120 minute trip. Our seal watching boats have on-board toilet facilities and safety equipment. Hand sanitizer provided.

We do not  allow dogs  on public trips. Only on private hire.

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CONTACT INFO

Telephone: 01728 666329

Email: [email protected]

seal tours in harwich ma

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COMMENTS

  1. Welcome to Monomoy Island Excursion

    While seals are the main attraction on our cruise, there is a lot more to see! ... There is a trained naturalist on board who narrates the tour and can answer questions about the wildlife as well as the history of the ... 508-430-7772. 731 Route 28, Unit 3 Harwich Port, MA 02646 [email protected] Book Now! Facebook Feed. Monomoy Island ...

  2. All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

    Harwich Center, MA 1 contribution. 0. Fun family activity. Jul 2022 • Family. Fun family activity. We had a blast touring the shoreline of Harwich and Chatham. ... I'm all for seeing fancy houses and boats, but not when it's advertised as a seal tour and have an excited kid in tow. We saw one group of 10-20 seals swimming and spent 15 min ...

  3. Monomoy Island Excursions & Seal Tours

    There are plenty of Monomy Island seal tours to check out as well! ... Harwich Port, MA 02646. 180 Brackett Road Unit 1 Eastham MA. 02642. Main Street (Route 28) Chatham, MA 02633. Contact Us. 508-432-0900. [email protected]. Mailing: PO Box 63 Harwich Port MA 02646.

  4. You must do this seal tour!

    Monomoy Island Excursions: You must do this seal tour! - See 166 traveler reviews, 133 candid photos, and great deals for Harwich Port, MA, at Tripadvisor.

  5. Seal Cruises

    SEAL CRUISE Fee for this 2 hour adventure is $350.00 for a private tour. Due to Covid-19 we will continue with private cruises of a single family per trip. Maximum 6 persons. Call 774-722-1336. for reservations. OTHER TOURS available on request. Sunset cruise . Private Charters 1/2 and Full Day . Fishing . Lunch cruise to Sundancer's Bass River

  6. Seal Tours

    Seal Tours Marine Charters, Sales & Service Private Charters Water Tours Wildlife Tours/Bird Watching . 731 Route 28 Harwich Port MA 02646 (508) 430-7772; Send Email; Visit Website; About Us. Experience Cape Cod's beauty and nature from the water. Join us for an adventure on Nantucket Sound as we explore the waters around Harwich and Chatham ...

  7. Fantastic seal tour.

    Down Cape Charters & Boat Rentals. 70 Reviews. #1 of 19 Outdoor Activities in Harwich. Outdoor Activities, Tours, Boat Tours & Water Sports, More. 2173 Route 28, Wequassett Resort & Golf Club, Harwich, MA 02645-1550. Open today: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Save. "A Meaningful Ash Scattering Service".

  8. 10 Best Places To See Seals On Cape Cod In 2024

    The guides are filled with interesting and fun information, and are great at answering questions. The tours are also all very scenic, and great for photos. So, here are the best tour companies on Cape Cod offering seal watches! 7. Monomoy Island Excursions. Departing from Harwich, Monomoy Island Excursions is a great option for a seal tour.

  9. Cape Cod Whale Watching

    Go whale watching along Stellwagen Bank, one of the world's finest whale feeding grounds located off Cape Cod Bay. Seal watching cruises are another fun on-the-water experience, putting you right up close with these adorable mammals. Daily whale watch and seal tour excursions are offered in season, led by experienced naturalists! 53. 0.

  10. Monomoy Island Ferry

    Daily Trips from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.Departing from Stage Harbor Marine - 80 Bridge St. in Chatham, MAReservations Required. STAGE HARBOR WEBCAM. For more information and reservations contact: Capt. Keith Lincoln. 774-722-1336. Monomoy Island Ferry - Rip Ryder.

  11. Seal Watching Harwich

    Seal Watching Harwich, Harwich. 8,905 likes · 826 were here. Experience Seal watching trips from Harwich to Hamford water for young and old.

  12. Seal cruise

    702 Route 28, Harwich Port, Harwich, MA 02646-1931. Open today: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Save. Review Highlights "Seal Watching Cruise Near Chatham" The five of us took this two-hour tour of the seals near Monomoy and Chatham. It was a beautiful... read more. Reviewed July 22, 2023. jaseaton, Silver Spring, Maryland.

  13. Monomoy Island Excursions

    Monomoy Island Excursions, Harwich Port. 2,295 likes · 2,008 were here. Open mid April through November

  14. Excursions

    731 Route 28, Unit 3 Harwich Port, MA 02646. [email protected] Book Now!

  15. Seal, Whale, & Shark Tours Cape Cod And The Islands

    City/State/Zip Code: Harwich Port, MA 02646. Freedom Cruise Line offers an array of exciting seal, whale, and shark tours Cape Cod, including Martha's Vineyard, Nantucket, and Plymouth. They provide a 2.5-hour whale watch in Nantucket Sound and a 1.5-hour private seal tour in Chatham Harbor.

  16. The best seal tour on Cape!

    Monomoy Island Excursions: The best seal tour on Cape! - See 166 traveler reviews, 133 candid photos, and great deals for Harwich Port, MA, at Tripadvisor.

  17. Cape Cod Boat Tours

    13-18 Passengers $950.00. Duration: 1.5 hours. This 90 min tour focuses primarily on Chatham Harbor and its famous seal colony. Along the route passengers enjoy the windswept dunes of the Cape Cod National Seashore and North Beach Island, t he Chatham Fish Pier and Chatham Lighthouse. One of our most popular tours - suitable for the entire ...

  18. Seal Cruise

    Seal cruise - Outermost offers public and private wildlife/ seal tours in Chatham, Cape Cod. Come experience the beautiful Chatham Harbor by boat. Seal cruise - Outermost offers public and private wildlife/ seal tours in Chatham, Cape Cod. ... 83 Seagull Road, Chatham, MA 02633. 508-945-2030. 508-945-2056. [email protected]. Find us on ...

  19. Seal watching at Harwich

    Private hire available please email [email protected] to arrange private hire trips. Open all year round, usually weekends and school holidays. Capacity April to October 1- 45 passengers. Capacity November to March 1- 12 passengers. There are currently around 250 seals in the Walton backwaters, a healthy breeding population ...