Bay of Fundy Whale Watching
Whale Watching on the Bay of Fundy: An Unforgettable Maritime Experience
Few natural experiences match the awe of seeing a whale breach the ocean’s surface—and there's no better place in Canada to witness this than the Bay of Fundy. Known for its dramatic tides and nutrient-rich waters, the Bay is one of the world’s premier whale-watching destinations, offering close encounters with some of the ocean’s most majestic creatures.
Why the Bay of Fundy is Perfect for Whale Watching
The Bay of Fundy, located between New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, is famous for having the highest tides on Earth. These tides churn up a feast of plankton, krill, and small fish—attracting over 12 species of whales and marine life during the summer and early fall.
From late June through October, the Bay becomes a feeding ground and migratory route for species such as:
Humpback Whales – Known for acrobatic breaches and massive tail flukes.
Minke Whales – Quick and curious, often seen near the surface.
Fin Whales – The second-largest whale species in the world.
North Atlantic Right Whales – Critically endangered and a rare but precious sighting.
White-Sided Dolphins, Seals, and Porpoises – Often spotted playing alongside the tour boats.
Top Whale Watching Locations in New Brunswick
St. Andrews by-the-Sea
This charming seaside town is the heart of whale-watching tourism in New Brunswick. Several reputable tour companies operate here, offering daily excursions on zodiacs, catamarans, and traditional tall ships. The waters near Passamaquoddy Bay and Fundy Isles are prime territory for spotting whales.
Grand Manan Island
Accessible by ferry, this island is renowned for its rich marine ecosystem. Tours here often venture into the Bay of Fundy’s deeper channels, where whales are most active. The island also offers stunning hiking trails and puffin watching.
Campobello Island
This lesser-traveled destination offers intimate, small-boat tours and the chance to explore Roosevelt Campobello International Park after your sea adventure.
What to Expect on a Whale Watching Tour
Most tours last 2 to 4 hours, depending on weather and sea conditions. Expert naturalists or marine biologists often accompany the trips, providing educational insights into whale behavior, ocean ecology, and conservation efforts.
Be sure to bring:
A jacket or windbreaker (it gets chilly on the water)
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Camera or binoculars
Motion sickness medication, if you’re sensitive to waves
Responsible Wildlife Viewing
Tour operators in New Brunswick follow strict marine guidelines to ensure the safety and wellbeing of whales and other marine life. Boats are required to keep a respectful distance, reduce noise, and never chase or corner animals. Supporting eco-certified companies ensures you're contributing to conservation-focused tourism.
More Than Just Whales
While the whales are the stars of the show, the Bay of Fundy offers much more. You might spot bald eagles, seabird colonies, lighthouses, and dramatic coastlines during your excursion. Some tours even include lobster fishing demos or stopovers at scenic islands.
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Go: Late June to early October
Tour Duration: 2–4 hours
Departure Points: St. Andrews, Grand Manan, Campobello Island
Booking Tip: Reserve in advance, especially in peak summer months
A Bay You’ll Never Forget
Whale watching in the Bay of Fundy is more than a sightseeing tour—it's a humbling, unforgettable encounter with some of the ocean’s most magnificent creatures, set against the dramatic backdrop of one of the world's most dynamic marine environments.
Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or with family, this is a New Brunswick bucket list experience you won’t want to miss.
