New York

Once roamed by whaling ships, the waters off New York now see thousands of whale watchers every year. From April through November, with peak sightings June through August, humpback, minke, fin, blue and sperm whales delight viewers as they feed along the continental shelf or pass through on migrations. Dolphin species including Risso's, bottlenose and killer whales are also in the area, as well as gray and harbor seals. For birders, scoters, grebes, puffins, scaups and harlequin ducks are among the many birds visible along this rugged coastline. Departing from New York City and New Jersey, whale watching here is an open-ocean adventure you will never forget.