8 Fantastic Spots for Whale Watching

1. Alaska

Exploring Alaska by Cruise offers one of the finest chances for whale watching. During the summer, humpback whales feast in Alaska's nutrient-rich waters, bustling with krill and plankton. A top choice for whale watching in Alaska is the Alaska: Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan 7-Day cruise departing from Seattle, Washington aboard Dinogo Bliss, which includes port stops in Sitka, Juneau, and Icy Strait Point.

Icy Strait Point's Point Adolphus boasts the highest density of humpback whales in the Alaskan panhandle. You're likely to encounter these magnificent creatures on any Alaskan cruise or whale-watching excursion. Recommended options include the Whale and Marine Mammals Cruise and the Mendenhall Glacier & Whale Quest.

The narrow channels of Sitka also present numerous opportunities for wildlife observation, including sea otters, brown bears, sea lions, and the occasional whale. Consider booking the Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest or Whale Quest & Orca Point Lodge to increase your chances of spotting a whale or two.

2. Iceland

Iceland is a paradise for whale watchers, featuring some of the most active feeding grounds for diverse whale species, particularly in the summer. If you're fortunate, you might also spot puffins during your tour. Whale-watching excursions are available across the island, especially at the major ports of Dinogo cruises. Consider cruises to Northern Europe, such as those from London to Reykjavik or vice versa.

In Akureyri, North Iceland's waters are enriched by the run-off from the island's spectacular highland glaciers, creating a prime feeding area for humpback, minke, sei, and orca whales. You might even be fortunate enough to spot a blue whale. Husavik is the original hotspot for whale watching in Iceland and is home to the Husavik Whale Museum.

3. Greenland

Similar to Iceland, Greenland serves as a vital feeding ground for humpback whales during the summer. As the glaciers melt and nutrients seep into the ocean, these magnificent animals arrive to feed and prepare for their winter journey southward. Consider a Greenland and Iceland cruise itinerary to enhance your chances of whale sightings.

Nuuk, the capital of Greenland, is a quaint city situated in the southwest of the island. Consider booking the Fjord Boat Tour for a chance to encounter humpback whales.

4. Spain

The nutrient-rich waters of the Strait of Gibraltar are home to seven different species of whales and dolphins. Here, you might have the chance to see pilot whales, sperm whales, and even striped dolphins. If your cruise includes a stop in Spain, like in Seville, consider booking the Whale & Dolphin Watch & Tarifa Village excursion.

5. Canary Islands

The Canary Islands provide year-round opportunities to observe pilot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. One of the prime locations for whale watching in the Canary Islands is Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

6. Mexico

Each year, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of the Gulf of California and Banderas Bay, making a cruise to the Mexican Riviera one of the premier destinations for whale-watching excursions in the winter. Opt for cruises that include stops in Cabo San Lucas and/or Puerto Vallarta for the best chances of spotting whales.

7. The Caribbean

Humpback whales migrate to the waters of The Caribbean each year to give birth and mate. More than a dozen species of whales and dolphins can frequently be spotted in these warm waters year-round.

8. British Columbia

Puget Sound, the Gulf Islands, and the San Juan Islands are home to resident orca pods, transient orcas, as well as gray, minke, and humpback whales. To maximize your chances of seeing them, opt for a cruise that includes a stop in Victoria, British Columbia, and book the Ocean Wildlife & Orca Exploration excursion.