Enjoy Sunset Cruises and Water Excursions in Gloucester, MA
June 07, 2023 / Things to Do & SeeThe summer season is here in Gloucester, which means enjoying the beaches, shoreline, and, of course, the many water activities associated with Gloucester Harbor and the Atlantic. From sunset harbor cruises to whale watching, deep sea fishing, educational tours, and lighthouse tours, there is much to do and see.
Whether you want to take a laid-back cruise around the harbor and watch the sun go down while enjoying the company of friends and a good cocktail or you want the excitement of reeling in “the big one” while deep sea fishing or spotting a magnificent whale breaching out of the water, Gloucester has something for everyone in terms of water excursions and tours.
Here are some on-the-water experiences to inspire your next visit to Gloucester and Cape Ann.
Go On a Whale Watch
Witnessing whales in their natural habitat is an amazing adventure. Two options for this type of water excursion in Gloucester include 7 Seas Whale Watch and Cape Ann Whale Watch.
Both businesses offer spectacular whale watching adventures leaving Gloucester Harbor daily. Whale watching off the coast of Gloucester includes a ride on state-of-the-art vessels that bring guests out to an area called the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. This sanctuary is a location where many varieties of whales can be found as they migrate and feed on the abundant natural resources off the coast of Massachusetts.
If you are looking for something on the water that isn’t whale watching, there are Gloucester businesses that provide those options as well. Cape Ann Cruises offers a host of options when it comes to water tours including lighthouse cruises, sunset cruises, corporate outings, seal watching, party cruises, and even a wedding venue! These options also come with a catering menu and bar service that can be customized for your event.
Gloucester Fleet – Deep Sea Fishing Charters
If fishing is what you like to do out on the open waters, then Gloucester Fleet Deep Sea Fishing is the place to go. The knowledgeable and experienced crew will help you aboard The Lady Sea, a 72′ x 22′ fiberglass vessel built specifically for comfortable fishing. Her wide beam will ensure less tangle time and more fishing time!
Choose from many different types of fishing trips including a Marathon Trip, which includes a 12-hour excursion for avid anglers; a custom Charter Trip, which could be for celebrating a birthday, retirement, bachelor party, or corporate outing; or a Deep Sea Fishing tour, which covers hot spots such as Tillies Ledge, Stellwagen Bank (a National Marine Sanctuary), Jeffreys Ledge, and Straw Hat as well as a few other favorites of deep sea fishing. These are some of the best bottom fishing grounds around and promise some exciting catches. Excursions can last a half day, ¾ of a day, or a full day depending on how long you’d like to angle.
Maritime Gloucester
If you are seeking something a little different and learning more about the maritime world, Maritime Gloucester may be right for you. Maritime Gloucester’s mission is to “inspire students and visitors to value marine science, maritime heritage, and environmental stewardship through hands-on education and experiences.”
Not only can families and individuals learn more about the marine species that inhabit the waters around Gloucester, but you can also find out more through educational programs and summer experiences. Some of these include seeing the Schooner Adventure, a National Historic Landmark and the flagship vessel of Gloucester, or the Schooner Ardelle, the Flagship of Maritime Gloucester used for educational programming. The Schooner Ardelle is currently sailing daily and offering charters. Visit maritimeheritagecharters.com for more information.
A quick stroll along the busy working harbor of Gloucester will show you that there are copious options for water activities and excursions! Beyond these highlights, there is so much to see and do! Check out Agawam Boat Charters, Beauport Cruiselines, Cape Ann Harbor Tours, Charlie’s Charters, Essex River Cruises, North Shore Adventures, and Tuna Hunter Fishing Charters.
Visit our tours page to see a full list of options for your next water adventure.