Living in New Hampshire, we're surrounded by some truly magnificent creatures. Of course, the Granite State is often associated with moose and bears, but our shoreline is home to equally amazing marine life – including whales, dolphins, seals, and more. If you haven't yet spent a day on the water admiring these creatures, you'll want to make plans to do so this summer. Granite State Whale Watch, which operates out of Rye, is the absolute best whale watching outfit to go on an expedition with. Your whole family is sure to love this incredible adventure.
The whale watch expeditions take about 4-5 hours, and Granite State Whale Watch has a 99% sighting rate. They'll take you out over Jeffrey Ledge, which thanks to a high population of plankton, krill, and other "whale food," is a popular hangout spot for massive marine mammals.
Whale species often encountered on the tour include minke whales, humpback whales, finback whales, and even the endangered right whale.
The size of these spectacular creatures will blow you away – even the calves are absolutely massive, and seeing them in person is a real treat. If you're lucky enough to see one of them breach, it's a sight you'll never forget.
The naturalists who narrate the tours are real experts - they can often even identify individual whales based on their fluke markings.
In addition to the massive whales, you might be lucky enough to spot some playful Atlantic white-sided dolphins!
It's not just whales and dolphins, though – you may be lucky enough to spot some adorable harbor seals as well! Tours also often spot sharks, ocean sunfish, porpoises, and all manner of ocean bird life.
The whale watches are also a fantastic opportunity to admire the scenery of the Seacoast – including gorgeous islands and lighthouses.
There's nothing like a day out at sea to restore the spirits – you're sure to come back relaxed, refreshed, and with a totally full camera roll.
The whale watching season begins in mid-May, so make your reservations now! Check out Granite State Whale Watch's website for more details.
Can't get enough of the ocean? Why not combine your whale watch expedition with a night at a New Hampshire beach house?
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