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Join a Whale Watching Tour in Massachusetts

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If you're going to be spending a week vacation in the state named one of the top ten whale watching spots in the world, why not watch the whales?! Whether you're looking for relaxation, thrill, or inspiration, you're sure to find it while gazing at the vast Atlantic Ocean and watching 50-foot whales breaching and spouting. Breathtaking.

Since the whales ordinarily are seen just about 25 miles of the coast, cruise operators schedule excursions throughout the day from April until March for tourists and locals who want to experience the majestic sight of the creatures. If you have the time to schedule your cruise (it'll usually take the good part of your day), it's an incredible opportunity to families, couples, or those traveling alone. Here are some common tips that will help your whale-watching excursion be everything it possibly can be:

• Keep from getting sick. Consider taking motion sickness pills (or patches) if you or your family ever experience sickness (or even if you're not sure). And be sure to take the medications at the appropriate time, possibly a few hours before the trip. You wouldn't want an upset stomach to ruin your trip! Also be sure to eat a good breakfast. Contrary to novice thought, refraining from eating won't ensure that you don't get sick - it'll provoke it. So eat a light breakfast, and possibly bring simple snacks. Also make sure that you drink plenty of water and stay hydrated (not sugary drinks).
• Stay warm. Being out on the water can make you really cold, even if it's summer outside. The wind and ocean spray shouldn't be a negative factor on your trip. Plan ahead by wearing layers and possibly bringing a few extra clothes.
• Keep your skin safe. Wear sunscreen! You can get extremely burned in the 3 to 5 hour trip while you're out on the water, with the sun being reflected off the water. Even if you don't usually burn, bring sunscreen and wear sunglasses.
• Get a good seat. If you're trying to plan to get the best seat on the boat, don't worry. Most of the seats on the boat are wonderful, and you can't really say that one is better than another. The lower deck is closer to the whales; the upper deck allows you to see further. You get the idea. Also be patient. Whales are unpredictable, and the captain will do his best to help you see by maneuvering the boat. However, it takes time. Don't start to feel disappointed early. Just wait for that perfect moment; it'll come!
• Take great pictures. To get the most amazing shots, try to think as a whale would. When you spot one, breaching and then going back underwater, focus your camera not on the exact spot they just went underwater but on a nearby location in the general direction they were moving. Be ready to take your picture either when they first come up out of the water or a few seconds later when their whole body is visible.
• Don't forget these! Don't forget to bring binoculars, rubber soled shoes, a bag lunch, warm clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, camera, a book or something for you to do on the trips out and in, and something to keep your children occupied.
• Stay safe. While being on a boat is a fun experience, it can also be dangerous if you don't follow safety precautions. So make sure that you obey all the rules, and make your children do the same. No running, no lifting someone onto your shoulders, etc. By taking precautions and being prepared, your whale-watching trip is sure to be phenomenal.

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