On a typical whale watching tour, most sightseers would be happy to see at least three whales, let alone different types of whales. But the Bay of Fundy isn’t just any body of water and whaling in this part of Canada is far from ordinary.
Located just north of Maine along the Atlantic Ocean, visitors can — depending on the time of year — see up to 12 different species in the waters.
With the 170 miles of coastline spanning from New Brunswick to Nova Scotia and the tips of Maine, the Bay of Fundy offers a protected area for whales to feed and care for their young until they migrate south to warmer waters. This means you’ll be amazingly close to some of the most magnificent creatures on the planet.
With so many whaling tours to choose from, selecting a New Brunswick whaling adventure can feel overwhelming. To help get you the closest to these amazing animals in the Bay, here are three quick questions you should ask yourself.
When are you going?
The best time to go on a whale watching tour is during the summer and early fall months when the whales use the Bay as a feeding ground. Be on the lookout for young Humpback, Finback and Minke whales who feel safe in the protected nursery type of environment. Depending what season you visit, you have different chances of seeing different species, but by far the summer is when the most come out to play.
Where are you staying?
Knowing where you’re staying can help narrow down your choices of tour operators. Popular whale watching tours depart from St. Andrews, Wilson’s Beach and the tip of Grand Manan Island. If you plan to drive out for a tour, you may have to book an overnight stay as whale watching tours can last up to three hours.
What type of experience are you looking for?
Are you looking for a group tour on a large ship or are you looking for a one on one encounter that’ll bring you up close and personal with these magnificent animals? For an active adventure out on the water, a kayaking tour would be a perfect fit. For a less rigorous experience in the St. Andrews area, the Fundy Tide Runners will place you on a Zodiac Hurricane speedboat on the open water.