07/13/09: Another first after 15 years in Boston: The NE Aquarium Whale Watch! We took the Saturday Sunset (6pm) cruise out to the humpback and minke feeding grounds. Fantastic! There were oodles of whales, even more birds, and a very instructive naturalist on board to educate the masses. Pluses: -the staff on board were extremely helpful, especially to those who were not feeling so sea worthy -Whales! magnificent beings not captive in a tank for our viewing pleasure -did I mention the whales? - watching the Boston skyline fade into the sunset, and returning to find the beautiful city lit up in evening attire!
Minuses: -rough seas - the staff were very explicit in warning guests that the seas were rough and recommened where to sit and what to do to help. We were fortunately unfazed, but the captain was very clearly trying to minimize the wave impacts on her ship for the comfort of all (not an easy feat with such seas) -cold! We knew better of course, but under-dressed for the occasion- a windbreaker/rain jacket is very helpful for the saltwater spray and winds- fleece just was not quite enough. -time - the trip to get to the feeding area is a long one, so there is not a lot of time to spend there. However, it was absolutely worth it! If you are easily bored, bring some self-entertainment for those stretches, but make sure it won't contribute to sea-sickness :-) (reading probably a bad idea...)
