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We left Gloucester Harbor on the Yankee Spirit, which sails under the flag of The Yankee Fleet. It was a picture perfect day in Gloucester and our check of the Marine Weather Web Site predicted calm seas with waves under one foot. The harbor was bustling with tourists, many of whom had booked on one of the many whale watch boats that are available in the Cape Anne area. The Yankee Spirit was booked to its capacity of 149 passengers (it's a good idea to call ahead for reservations), as was its sister ship the Yankee Freedom, but let us assure you that even when loaded to capacity the accommodations on these boats are excellent.

As you will be sailing some 10 to 30 miles off shore to find the whales in their regular habitat it is reassuring that these are substantial, well equipped sailing vessels. The ship was in excellent condition and had very adequate seating for all on board. The restrooms were spotless and there were snacks and beverages available in the galley.

No need to wonder if you'll see whales or not, it's only a question of what type, and how many. There was plenty of room at the rails on the main and upper deck so all  could see the whales with no problem. Our trip narrator made a special point of requesting that adults make sure that children could stand close to the rail so that they did not miss any of the action.

We sailed out about 20 miles before we saw our first whales, a mother Humpback and her calf.

As you'll see in later photos, the biggest creatures in the sea are also amongst the gentlest, and most gregarious. We saw whales within 15 feet of our boat giving us a tremendous opportunity for photos. As big as the whales are, you won't feel threatened, only awe stricken. As you enjoy your tour, your narrators will share their vast knowledge of whales with you, identifying different species as they are spotted. If your lucky, you may get close up glimpses of other sea creatures such as dolphins, and seals which seem to enjoy the same feeding grounds as the whales.

If you are a visitor to New England you absolutely must take part in a whale watch cruise. We give our cruise with The Yankee Fleet our highest rating.

Here's A Checklist of What To Take With You

• Camera

• Extra Film

• Clear plastic bag. (if seas get rough or it rains it will protect your camera and you may be able to shoot through it)

• Dramamine (for sea sickness if you are prone or if you've never sailed on the ocean)

• Batteries

• Binoculars

• Sunglasses

• Sun screen  drugstore.com

• Jacket or sweater (unless it's a very warm summer day it can get cool out there)

• The Whale Watcher's Guide :...

• More About Whales

• Boston's only three-hour whale watch cruise  Boston's only three-hour whale watch cruise on a high-speed catamaran. They will get you to and from the whales in half the time, which allows you more time to watch the whales.

• Cape Ann Whale Watch

• Seven Seas  

• Yankee Fleet

Until he extends his circle of compassion to include all living things, man will not himself find peace.
- Albert Schweitzer

          

Buy this poster at allwall.com

 Humpback Whales Tie

Click On Any Photo To Enlarge

Mother and Calf

Diving Deep

Real Close

Bye Bye