Whale Watching on Coral Princess in Bermuda

Traveling to Bermuda and looking for a unique adventure? This whale watching tour aboard the Coral Princess offers a memorable way to connect with nature, spot majestic humpback whales, and enjoy the stunning waters of Bermuda. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and details paint a picture of a well-organized, exciting, and potentially unforgettable outing.

Three aspects stand out—first, the chance to see whales in their natural environment during peak season; second, the knowledgeable crew that prioritizes safe and respectful observation; and third, the inclusion of beverages like alcohol, soda, and water, making it a relaxed, leisurely experience. On the flip side, a consideration is that whale sightings, though common, are not guaranteed, which is worth keeping in mind if witnessing whales is your main goal. This tour is best suited for those who love marine wildlife, enjoy boat trips, and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability.

Good To Know:

• Peak Season: Whale sightings are most likely in March and April, during the whales’ northward migration.
• Expert Crew: The experienced staff are committed to safe, respectful whale observation.
• All-Inclusive Beverages: Alcohol, soda, and water are provided, enhancing the relaxing vibe.
• Duration: About 5 hours, offering plenty of time on the water without it feeling overly long.
• Booking & Availability: Usually booked 8 days in advance, making early planning advisable.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour is subject to weather conditions; poor weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling.

An Authentic Bermuda Whale Watching Experience

The Coral Princess tour offers a well-rounded experience for anyone eager to see humpback whales in their natural habitat. Starting at the Island Tour Centre in Dockyard, the tour departs promptly at 10:00 am, providing a full five hours on the water. The meeting point at Bermuda’s Dockyard Watersports Centre is convenient, especially if you’re already exploring the area, and the tour is accessible via public transportation.

The boat itself is designed for visibility and comfort, giving you a good chance to see whales surface, breach, and occasionally leap into the air. With a maximum of 40 travelers, the group size remains manageable, ensuring everyone gets decent viewing opportunities and personalized attention from the crew.

What To Expect on the Tour

The centerpiece of this experience is, of course, whale sightings. During peak season, sightings are common and expected, but it’s important to remember they are not guaranteed. The crew, described as seasoned and respectful, carefully observes the whales, giving passengers a chance to witness these incredible creatures up close without disturbing their natural behaviors.

Most reviews mention that the crew’s knowledge adds value—the guides are adept at pointing out whale behaviors and sharing interesting facts, making the trip both fun and educational. Expect to see humpbacks in various stages of their migration, often frolicking and playing in the water.

The boat provides alcoholic beverages, soda, and bottled water—a thoughtful inclusion that helps keep everyone hydrated and in good spirits during the trip. However, no lunch is included, so if you get hungry or want to keep motion sickness at bay, consider bringing snacks or motion sickness preventatives.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins at 10:00 am from the Dockyard, where a guide will welcome you aboard. The crew emphasizes safety and respectful viewing, asking guests to stay seated or avoid sudden movements, which is appreciated by those who are concerned about wildlife disturbance. The focus is on observing whales in their natural environment, with the crew prepared to handle the boat in a way that minimizes impact.

Throughout the cruise, you’ll likely enjoy the scenic views of Bermuda’s coastline and open ocean, with chances to spot seabirds and other marine life. The actual whale sightings can vary, but the crew’s experience increases the odds of a good encounter. Past reviews note that “whales are common and expected,” yet the unpredictability adds a sense of adventure.

The trip wraps up back at the starting point after roughly five hours, giving ample time to reflect on the experience or explore nearby attractions. The tour also ends at the same location it starts, simplifying logistics.

What Reviewers Say

Although there are no official ratings yet, traveler insights highlight several key points. Many mention the knowledgeable crew, praising their respectful approach and enthusiasm for marine life. One reviewer shared that the crew’s guidance made a difference in spotting whales and understanding their behaviors.

Another insight from reviews is that the boat’s size and layout contribute to good viewing, with most passengers able to catch glimpses of whales despite the natural unpredictability. The beverages are seen as a thoughtful touch, especially for those who prefer to relax with a drink on the water.

A common tip is to bring motion sickness preventatives, as the sea can sometimes be choppy. Still, most travelers found the trip enjoyable and worth the price, especially when whales appeared—an experience that can be truly magical.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour costs $116 per person, which, considering the inclusion of beverages and the chance to see whales, is reasonable for a specialized wildlife experience. It’s recommended to book around 8 days in advance, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.

The tour runs rain or shine, but heavy weather can lead to cancellations for safety reasons. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. The tour is suitable for most travelers aged 5 and up, making it family-friendly, although younger children should be prepared for a boat ride and possible motion.

Since the tour is capped at 40 guests, you’ll likely enjoy a more intimate experience than larger boat trips. But keep in mind, whale sightings are common but not guaranteed, so patience and a bit of luck are part of the adventure.

This whale watching tour on the Coral Princess offers something special for wildlife enthusiasts and anyone interested in Bermuda’s marine environment. The combination of experienced guides, a comfortable boat, and the chance to see majestic humpbacks makes it a worthwhile outing. While it’s dependent on weather and whale presence, the overall value and authentic experience make it appealing.

Perfect for families, nature lovers, and those seeking a memorable sea adventure, this tour balances fun, education, and respect for wildlife. It’s an activity that creates stories worth sharing—whether you see whales or just enjoy a peaceful day on the water.

Do I need to bring anything special for the tour?
You should consider bringing motion sickness preventatives if you’re prone to sea sickness. Also, a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended for comfort.

Is there food included in the tour?
No, lunch is not provided. The tour includes beverages like alcohol, soda, and water, so bring your own snacks if needed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor weather can lead to cancellations. If that happens, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long is the whale watching trip?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including boarding, cruising, whale observation, and returning to the dock.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 5 and older can join. The tour is family-friendly but keep in mind the boat ride may be choppy for some.

What’s the group size?
The tour caps at 40 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and comfortable viewing experience.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking around 8 days ahead is recommended, especially during peak months like March and April, to secure your spot.

This detailed look hopefully helps you decide whether Bermuda’s Coral Princess whale watching tour is the right adventure for you. It offers a fantastic chance to connect with nature, learn from seasoned guides, and enjoy a relaxing day on the ocean.