1. THE AZORES, PORTUGAL

The Azores, a group of nine volcanic islands in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, is a prime whale watching destination in Europe. With a rich marine ecosystem and strategic location between Europe and North America, these islands are home to a variety of whale species, including sperm whales, blue whales, fin whales, and bottlenose dolphins. The best time to visit for whale watching is from April to October, with peak sightings occurring during the summer months.

Whale watching in the Azores is often done by boat, and the relatively short distances between the islands allow for day trips. The crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility, making the experience even more captivating.

2. HERVEY BAY, AUSTRALIA

Located on the eastern coast of Queensland, Hervey Bay is often referred to as the "whale watching capital of the world." Every year, humpback whales migrate along Australia’s east coast, stopping in Hervey Bay to rest, play, and nurture their young before continuing their journey south. This unique behavior gives visitors the chance to observe these gentle giants up close.

The whale watching season in Hervey Bay runs from late July to early November, with peak sightings in August and September. Tour operators offer a range of excursions, from small boats to larger vessels, ensuring a variety of experiences for whale watchers of all ages. Aside from humpbacks, the region is also home to other species such as the orca and the rare southern right whale.

3. ICY STRAIT POINT, ALASKA, USA

Icy Strait Point, located in southeastern Alaska, offers an exceptional opportunity to see a variety of whale species, including humpbacks, gray whales, orcas, and minke whales. The region’s deep, nutrient-rich waters attract large populations of whales, making it a top destination for whale watching.

The best time to visit Icy Strait Point for whale watching is from May to September. During this period, the waters are teeming with marine life, and visitors have the chance to see not only whales but also seals, sea otters, and other marine mammals. There are various tour options available, from boat trips to guided land-based excursions.

4. REYKJAVIK, ICELAND

Iceland, with its dramatic landscapes and pristine waters, is a fantastic destination for whale watching. Reykjavik, the country’s capital, serves as the gateway to some of the best whale watching in Europe. The waters surrounding Iceland are home to a variety of whale species, including minke whales, humpbacks, orcas, and even blue whales.

The peak season for whale watching in Reykjavik is from June to August, when the waters are rich with plankton and other food sources, drawing in large numbers of whales. Whale watching tours depart from Reykjavik’s Old Harbour and offer a variety of experiences, including private tours and eco-friendly trips.

5. VANCOUVER ISLAND, CANADA

Vancouver Island, located off the coast of British Columbia, is one of the best whale watching destinations in North America. The waters surrounding the island are frequented by orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, and minke whales, particularly in the waters around Victoria and Tofino. The island’s unique geography, with its sheltered bays and rich marine environment, makes it an ideal location for whale watching.

The best time to visit Vancouver Island for whale watching is from March to October, with peak sightings occurring from May to September. Tour operators offer a range of options, including boat tours, kayaking excursions, and even whale watching by seaplane for those seeking a unique perspective.

6. KAIKOURA, NEW ZEALAND

Kaikoura, a small town on the South Island of New Zealand, is a world-renowned whale watching destination. The deep waters close to the shore make it an ideal location for sperm whales, which can be seen year-round. In addition to sperm whales, visitors can also spot humpback whales, orcas, and the occasional blue whale.

The best time to visit Kaikoura for whale watching is from June to August, as the waters are especially rich in food during this period, attracting large numbers of whales. Tours from Kaikoura are conducted by boat, and the relatively calm waters of the bay ensure excellent visibility for whale watchers.

7. TADOUSSAC, QUEBEC, CANADA

Tadoussac, located at the confluence of the Saguenay and St. Lawrence Rivers in Quebec, is one of the best whale watching destinations in Canada. The region is particularly known for its population of beluga whales, which migrate through the waters of the St. Lawrence River. In addition to belugas, visitors can spot minke whales, fin whales, and blue whales.

The whale watching season in Tadoussac is from May to October, with peak sightings occurring from June to September. Whale watching tours depart from the small town, and both boat and kayak tours are available. The stunning backdrop of forests and rugged terrain adds to the beauty of the experience.

8. DOMINICA, CARIBBEAN

Dominica, an island nation in the Caribbean, is an exceptional location for whale watching, especially for those interested in seeing sperm whales. The waters surrounding the island are home to one of the world’s largest populations of sperm whales, which can be seen year-round. In addition to sperm whales, Dominica is also home to humpback whales, orcas, and dolphins.

The best time to visit Dominica for whale watching is from November to March, when the sperm whales are most active in the region. Boat tours offer the chance to see these magnificent creatures up close, and the lush island environment provides a scenic backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.