Whale Watch on Campobello Island
Land Based or On The Water, See the Whales of the Bay of Fundy
Campobello Island is a great place to see fin, minke and humpback whales. Harbor porpoise and seals, too. With luck endangered right whales may be spotted as well.
Campobello Island in New Brunswick, Canada, is situated on the Bay of Fundy in the path of migratory whales, providing an easy way for everyone to see whales, porpoises and seals. Imagine sitting on a bench overlooking the bay and seeing fin and minke whales. Harbor porpoise and seals are also easily seen from shore. Island Cruises Whale Watch Tours will take people further afield (or more correctly "asea") for closer views.
Whale and Seal Watching From Shore
People who have been denied the pleasure of viewing whales, due to a tendency to sea sickness or simply not being comfortable on the water, have a unique opportunity to view whales from land on this little island. The best spot is at the lighthouse at Head Harbor (East Quoddy) where the marine mammals (and birds) follow the world's highest tides in and out of the bay.
The Bay of Fundy is narrow here so the whales are not far away and the acoustics of the area mean that the whales can be heard as well as seen. It is only necessary to listen for the whoosh of their breathing and look in the direction of the sound. For a special experience, go out at night to listen for them. It’s a lovely, soothing sound while sitting quietly in the dark. To enjoy this special treat, a variety of B &Bs, cottages and lodges offer accommodation to fit most price ranges.
Minke whales may be harder to spot. These small whales don't have a big blow and they don't spend much time near the surface. Harbor porpoise here tend to travel in groups of 3 or more so are easier to see and enjoy.
When looking out on the bay keep an eye out for seals, as both grey and harbor seals are found around here. They may be seen resting on offshore rocks or ‘bottling’ sticking their noses in the air to get a view of what is going on around them.
Whale Watch Cruises
Actually going out on the water with Island Cruises Whale Watch Tours can only enhance the whale watching experience. Captain Mackie Greene, a Level 4 Whale Rescue specialist, uses his knowledge to give people great views. He seems to sense where the whales will appear next, often being in just the right spot as other boats rush around just missing the animals.
Mackie is a signatory of the Canadian Whale Watching Code of Ethics. A native of the island, his family has been in New Brunswick for generations, first on Grand Manan, another great vacation destination, so he knows the area and the wildlife.
Early and late in the season endangered right whales may be spotted. Harbor porpoise, fin and minke whales are likely with the occasional humpback whale putting on a show as well.
In the summer, trips go out 3 times daily and last around 2-3 hours, depending on the whales. The boat holds a maximum of 20 people so a good seat is guaranteed. The season lasts from June 1st to Oct 15th but early and late in the year fewer trips go out so it is best to book ahead of time. This will also allow them to give advice regarding when the weather is likely to be best for a tour.
Other Trips Through Island Cruises
Island Tours is also happy to arrange bird watching trips for groups of 6 or more. Best time to go is during the nesting season when seabirds are there in greatest concentrations. Or if lighthouses and history are of interest, a tour around East Quoddy (also known as Head Harbor) Lighthouse is can also be scheduled.
To contact Island Cruises:
1-888-249-4400
Email: islcrus@nb.aibn.com
