Nova Scotia’s rugged coastline, expansive bays, and nutrient-rich waters make it an ideal location for whale watching.
The province is home to a variety of whale species, including humpback whales, minke whales, fin whales, and the rare North Atlantic right whale.
These majestic creatures migrate to the waters off Nova Scotia’s shores every year, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to witness their beauty up close.
Observing these gentle giants of the sea in their natural habitat can be a truly humbling and awe-inspiring experience.
Whether you’re an animal lover, nature enthusiast, or simply seeking adventure, whale watching in Nova Scotia is an activity that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
When is the Best Time to Go Whale Watching in Nova Scotia
The best time to go whale watching in Nova Scotia is from May to October.
During this period, the waters off Nova Scotia’s shores are teeming with marine life, including a variety of whale species.
This is also the time when the whales are most active, making it easier to observe their natural behaviour.
The peak season for whale watching in Nova Scotia is typically from mid-June to mid-October when the whales are most abundant.
However, visitors can still have a successful whale watching experience in May and early June when the whales first arrive in the area.
Where are the Best Places to Go Whale Watching in Nova Scotia?
Nova Scotia’s expansive coastline and nutrient-rich waters provide an ideal habitat for several whale species, making it a popular destination for whale watching enthusiasts.
Here are some of the best places to go whale watching in Nova Scotia:
Cape Breton Island
Located in northern Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Island is a prime location for whale watching.
Visitors can observe a variety of whale species, including humpback whales, fin whales, and minke whales.
Cape Breton Island’s rugged coastline and picturesque landscape make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Brier Island
Located in the Bay of Fundy, Brier Island is known for its abundance of humpback whales.
The island’s surrounding waters are rich in nutrients, attracting an array of marine life, including seals and dolphins.
Brier Island is a prime location for spotting these magnificent creatures, and visitors can join whale watching tours offered by local operators.
Digby Neck
Digby Neck is a narrow strip of land that juts out into the Bay of Fundy and is home to several whale species, including the rare North Atlantic right whale.
The area’s unique geography creates a natural feeding ground for the whales, making it an ideal location for whale watching.
Visitors can join whale watching tours or observe the whales from the shore.
Why These Locations are Ideal for Whale Watching
Nova Scotia’s waters are home to a variety of whale species, and each location offers a unique whale watching experience.
The Bay of Fundy’s nutrient-rich waters attract large pods of whales, making it a prime location for whale watching.
Cape Breton Island’s rugged coastline provides a picturesque backdrop for observing whales in their natural habitat.
Digby Neck’s natural geography creates a natural feeding ground for the whales, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close.
Whale Watching Excursions and Tours in Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is home to several reputable whale watching tour providers that offer a range of excursions and tours.
Visitors can choose from zodiac boats, larger vessels, or even kayak tours, depending on their preferences.
Each tour provider offers experienced guides, informative commentary, and a chance to witness these magnificent creatures up close.
Ocean Explorations Zodiac Whale Cruises
- Visit their website for more information: https://oceanexplorations.ca/
Ocean Explorations Zodiac Whale Cruises is a family-owned and operated tour company that offers whale watching tours in Tiverton, Nova Scotia.
Their 12-passenger zodiacs provide a fast and exhilarating ride, allowing visitors to get up close to the whales while maintaining a safe distance.
They offer a whale sighting guarantee and have experienced guides who provide informative commentary about the whales and their habitat.
Brier Island Whale and Seabird Cruises
- Visit their website for more information: https://brierislandwhalewatch.com/
Brier Island Whale and Seabird Cruises is a well-established tour company that has been operating in Nova Scotia for over 30 years.
They offer whale watching tours in the Bay of Fundy, where visitors can observe humpback whales, fin whales, and other marine life.
Their experienced guides provide informative commentary about the whales and their habitat. They also offer seabird watching tours and have a gift shop that sells locally made products.
Mariner Cruises Whale and Seabird Tours
- Visit their website for more information: https://marinercruises.com/
Mariner Cruises Whale and Seabird Tours is a family-owned and operated tour company that offers whale watching tours in Digby Neck, Nova Scotia.
They have been in business for over 20 years and offer tours in a 46-foot vessel that can accommodate up to 49 passengers.
Their experienced guides provide informative commentary about the whales and their habitat, and visitors can also observe seabirds and other marine life.
Petit Passage Whale Watch
- Visit their website for more information: https://petitpassagewhalewatching.com/
Petit Passage Whale Watch is a tour company that offers whale watching tours in the Bay of Fundy, departing from Westport, Nova Scotia. They offer tours in a 50-foot vessel that can accommodate up to 49 passengers.
Visitors can observe seabirds and other marine life, while the experienced guides provide informative commentary about the whales and their habitat.
They also have an on-board touch tank where visitors can see and touch live sea creatures.
Captain Zodiac Whale Cruise
- Visit their website for more information: https://captainzodiac.ca/
Captain Zodiac Whale Cruise is a tour company that offers whale watching tours in the Bay of Fundy, departing from Tiverton, Nova Scotia.
They offer tours in a 12-passenger zodiac that provides a fast and exciting ride. Their experienced guides provide informative commentary about the whales and their habitat, and visitors can also observe other marine life such as dolphins and porpoises.
They also offer bird watching tours and have a gift shop that sells locally made products.
Helpful Tips for Whale Watching in Nova Scotia
- Dress Appropriately
Whale watching can be a chilly activity, even in the summer months. Visitors should dress in layers and wear warm, waterproof clothing. It’s also essential to wear appropriate footwear, such as closed-toe shoes or boots with good traction.
- Bring Necessary Equipment
Visitors should bring any necessary equipment, such as binoculars, cameras, and sunscreen. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat and sunglasses to protect against the sun.
- Choose a Reputable Tour Provider
Choosing a reputable tour provider is crucial for a safe and successful whale watching experience. Visitors should look for companies that follow safety guidelines, have experienced guides, and respect the marine environment.
- Follow Safety Guidelines
Visitors should follow all safety guidelines provided by their tour operator, such as staying seated while on the boat, keeping a safe distance from the whales, and not feeding or touching them.
- Be Patient
Whale watching can be a waiting game, so visitors should be patient and prepared to spend several hours on the water. It’s also important to remember that whales are wild animals, and there is no guarantee of a sighting.
- Respect the Environment
Visitors should respect the marine environment and avoid littering or throwing anything overboard. They should also avoid disturbing the whales and other marine life by following the guidelines provided by their tour operator.
- Enjoy the Experience
Whale watching is a unique and unforgettable experience, so visitors should take the time to enjoy it fully. They should take in the stunning scenery, listen to the sounds of the ocean, and appreciate the majesty of these magnificent creatures.
