Cancellation Policy:
You can cancel your whale-watching trip at any time without any questions asked. If we have to cancel the trip due to weather conditions, or wind, you will receive a 100% refund.
About the Trip:
Our whale-watching tour typically lasts for around 1.5 hours, but the duration may vary depending on weather conditions and the distance to the whales. Our boat, the Highland Dancer, is a 38-foot Cape Islander boat that can comfortably accommodate up to 36 passengers. The seating is padded for your comfort, and your experienced Captain and Tour Guide will ensure your safety and enjoyment.
We will head out into the Gulf of St. Lawrence to search for migrating whales that visit the waters off Cape Breton Island. The Gulf of St. Lawrence is home to several whale species, including Finback, Pilot, Minke, Humpback, Dolphins, and other rare species like Right, Killer, Blue, Beluga, and more. In most seasons, we record around 8-12 species.
Once we spot the whales, we will approach them quietly and follow whale-wise guidelines to avoid disturbing them. Before we return to the dock, you will have plenty of time to capture this once-in-a-lifetime experience with your camera. During the return trip to port, you can enjoy some sightseeing as we cruise along the Cape Breton Highland's National Park.
Important Information:
- Our vessel, the Highland Dancer, is suitable for people of all ages. However, please note that there is a short ramp and 3 short steps to board the vessel, which can be slippery when wet.
- We are pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along.
- To prepare for the trip, please arrive 30 minutes before departure.
- Our tours are weather-dependent and must follow Transport Canada's strict wind regulations. We will contact you by email and text as soon as we know if your trip is canceled. However, please note that there may be instances where trips have to be canceled at the time of departure without notice.
- Please be aware that there is no cell phone coverage in Pleasant Bay and no gas stations in the area. Once you have made a reservation, save it to your phone as proof when you join us.
What to Bring:
It is recommended that you dress in layers on colder days. During warmer summer days, a windbreaker is sufficient. Life jackets are not required to be worn, so it is suggested to wear layers that can be removed if it gets hot or added if it gets cold.
Please bring sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and your camera. You don't need special footwear; wear shoes according to the day's weather. Please bring your rain gear on rainy days as we do not provide any. Tours will not be stopped due to rain. We do not offer any sea-sickness aids, so please come prepared if you think you may need them.
Lastly, there is always a chance of getting wet, so bringing a towel or raincoat with you is advisable.