Whitby Whale Watching
Seasonal whale watching cruises from Whitby harbour, searching for minke, humpback and other whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds along the Yorkshire coast.
Set off from historic Whitby harbour on a dedicated whale watching cruise along the Yorkshire coast. These seasonal boat trips head into the North Sea in search of minke, humpback, and other whales, plus dolphins, porpoises, seals, and seabirds. Led by experienced local skippers, the tours combine wildlife spotting with coastal scenery and marine conservation, offering a unique chance to see large marine mammals from England’s northeast coast.
A brief summary to Whitby Whale Watching
- 14 St Ann's Staith, Whitby, YO21 3PW, GB
- +447941450381
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book in advance, especially in July–October, as trips fill quickly and availability can be limited.
- Dress in warm, windproof layers and bring a hat and gloves – it can be much cooler and windier out at sea than in town.
- Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens to get the best views and photos of distant whales and seabirds.
- Manage expectations: wildlife sightings depend on season, weather and luck, but the scenery and sea experience are always worthwhile.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from Whitby town centre
From Whitby’s main shopping streets and the Abbey, follow signs to the harbour and St Ann’s Staith. The walk takes about 5–10 minutes on flat, paved paths and is suitable for most visitors. The whale watching departure point is clearly marked on the quayside.
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By car with parking
Drive into Whitby and follow signs to the town centre and harbour. Several public car parks are within a 5–10 minute walk of St Ann’s Staith, including the Abbey car park and the West Cliff car parks. Parking can be busy in summer, so arriving early is advisable.
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By train and local bus
Whitby has a mainline railway station served by Northern trains. From the station, local buses run into the town centre, or it’s a 15–20 minute walk downhill to the harbour. Local buses also connect nearby villages and coastal towns during the summer season.
Whitby Whale Watching location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Whitby Whale Watching
Chasing Giants off the Yorkshire Coast
Whitby Whale Watching offers dedicated seasonal boat trips from the heart of Whitby’s historic harbour, taking visitors into the North Sea in search of whales, dolphins, and other marine life. Operating from July to October, these wildlife cruises are run by local experts who know the seasonal movements of herring shoals and the predators that follow them. Minke whales are the most commonly seen, but there are also regular sightings of humpback, fin, and sei whales, along with bottlenose and white-beaked dolphins, harbour porpoises, and large seal colonies along the cliffs.Life Aboard the Whale Watcher
The trips typically last around 2–3 hours, with longer options available for those seeking a more extended experience. The boats are well maintained and equipped for comfort, with sheltered cabins and open decks so you can choose your vantage point. Knowledgeable skippers and crew provide informative commentary on the wildlife, local geography, and marine conservation, enhancing the experience whether you’re spotting a distant blow or watching gannets plunge into the waves. Sightings are never guaranteed – this is wild nature – but the combination of expert guidance, good timing, and a bit of luck can make for unforgettable moments.More Than Just Whales
While the focus is on whales, the cruises are rich with other wildlife. Seals often bask on offshore rocks or pop up curiously near the boat, while seabirds like gannets, razorbills, and kittiwakes patrol the cliffs and plunge for fish. The journey itself offers stunning views of Whitby’s dramatic coastline, from the Abbey and piers to the cliffs around Ravenscar and Sandsend. These trips also contribute to marine research, with sighting data shared with conservation organisations to help monitor whale and dolphin populations in the North Sea.Planning Your Trip
Whitby Whale Watching is based at 14 St Ann’s Staith on the harbour, a short walk from the town centre and main attractions. Tickets are paid per person, with discounts for children and under‑fives often going free. Booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially in peak season, as spaces fill quickly. Come prepared with warm, windproof clothing and a camera – the sea can be cool and breezy even on sunny days, and the views, wildlife, and atmosphere make for great photos and memories.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Town Hall
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A neoclassical gem in Whitby’s Market Square, blending centuries of history with vibrant market life and ongoing restoration.
Whitby Walks
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Explore the stunning coastal beauty and rich history of Whitby with guided tours from Whitby Walks, perfect for every traveler.
Whitby Harbour West Lighthouse
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Whitby Harbour East Lighthouse
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Skelton Tower
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Westmoreland Street
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Ludworth Tower
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Foss Fairy Trail
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Robin Hood Tower
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Medieval Walls
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City Wall Walk
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Monk Bar
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York City Walls
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National Trust - Treasurer's House, York
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St Anthonys Garden
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Explore St Anthony's Garden in York, a serene retreat filled with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, perfect for relaxation and contemplation.
Unmissable attractions to see
Whitby Coastal Cruises Ltd
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Iconic yellow boats offering affordable daily cruises, wildlife encounters, and fishing adventures from Whitby's historic harbour.
Whitby Antiques & Collectables Emporium
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Discover Whitby’s rich heritage through a vast collection of antiques and collectibles in the heart of town’s historic Flowergate street.
Whitby Crabbing Corner
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Experience the timeless joy of seaside crabbing at Whitby’s charming harbour corner, where family fun meets stunning coastal views.
Whitby Swing Bridge
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Experience the charm and history of Whitby Swing Bridge, a stunning landmark connecting the picturesque town with breathtaking views of the River Esk.
Dracula Experience Ltd
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Step into Whitby’s gothic past with a spine-chilling journey through Bram Stoker’s Dracula legend, brought to life with effects and live actors.
Black Pearl Boat Trips
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Experience Whitby’s coast with lively pirate-themed boat trips offering fun, scenic views, and friendly crew for all ages.
Crocodile
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A cozy and creative tapas bar in Whitby serving innovative small plates with fine wines and cocktails in an intimate setting.
Whitby Marine Discovery Centre & Whitby Lobster Hatchery
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Discover native marine life and support lobster conservation at Whitby’s engaging aquarium and hatchery by the harbour.
Whitby Storyteller Guided Walks and Tours
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Explore the captivating history and folklore of Whitby with the Whitby Storyteller Guided Walks and Tours, a must-do for every visitor.
Captain Cook Memorial Museum
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Discover the legendary voyages of Captain Cook in Whitby’s historic museum, blending maritime heritage with modern explorations of health at sea and in space.
Arch & Abbey
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A cozy micropub in Whitby offering rotating real ales, Yorkshire gins, homemade cakes, and a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
War Memorial
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A poignant modern memorial in Whitby honoring local heroes through unique local stone artistry and community spirit.
The Whitby Endeavour
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Experience Whitby’s maritime heritage with great food, drinks, and harbour views at The Whitby Endeavour.
Abbey House Visitor Centre, Museum & Tea Room
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Discover Whitby Abbey’s rich history and stunning coastal views at the welcoming Abbey House Visitor Centre, featuring museum exhibits and a charming tea room.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway - (Whitby,Station)
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Step aboard vintage steam trains at Whitby Station and journey through the breathtaking North York Moors to experience Yorkshire’s heritage and coastal charm.
Essential places to dine
The Moon & Sixpence
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Relax by Whitby’s waterfront with fresh seafood, grilled delights, and creative cocktails at The Moon & Sixpence.
Al Taco
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Savor authentic Mexican street food with bold flavors and friendly service in the heart of Whitby at Al Taco.
Emma's Diner
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Step into Emma's Diner for hearty American classics and a welcoming retro vibe with tasty vegan options in the heart of Whitby.
The Marine Bar & Restaurant
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Fresh seafood and coastal charm combine at The Marine Bar & Restaurant, a welcoming Whitby dining spot with stunning sea views and modern comfort.
Velveteen French Cafe, Bar & Brasserie
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Elegant modern French dining in the heart of Whitby, blending classic flavors with a cozy, refined atmosphere.
Abbey Wharf
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Experience fresh seafood and vibrant bar culture with stunning harbour views at Whitby's Abbey Wharf.
THE FOUR SEASONS RESTAURANT
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A welcoming Whitby eatery blending Mediterranean and English classics with famed fish and chips in a central, family-friendly setting.
The Edge Restaurant
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A charming Whitby bistro offering fresh seafood, diverse menus, and attentive service in a welcoming coastal setting.
Quayside
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Fresh, crispy fish and chips served by the scenic Whitby Harbour in a welcoming, tastefully decorated setting.
Monks Haven
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Historic charm meets fresh, gluten-free dining in a friendly, dog-welcoming cafe nestled in Whitby's oldest building.
Hadley's Fish & Chips
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Savor Whitby’s iconic fish and chips at Hadley’s, a historic spot famed for fresh, sustainably sourced seafood and classic Yorkshire flavors.
Rusty Shears
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A vintage-inspired café and bar in Whitby offering hearty breakfasts, homemade cakes, and an extensive gin collection in a quirky, cozy setting.
The Vault, Whitby
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Historic vaults meet modern British dining in a cozy Whitby restaurant and lounge bar with friendly service and generous portions.
Moutreys
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Experience hearty Italian flavors and rustic charm in the heart of Whitby’s historic district at Moutreys.
The White Horse & Griffin
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Historic Whitby hotel and seafood restaurant blending maritime heritage with cozy charm and fresh coastal cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Whitby Wholefoods & Propagansey
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A charming Whitby shop blending natural wholefoods, vitamins, and hand-made wool for health and craft enthusiasts alike.
Whitby Vintage
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Discover timeless style and nostalgia at Whitby Vintage, a charming boutique on Flowergate offering curated retro fashion in a historic town setting.
Pandemonium
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Discover Whitby’s gothic heart at Pandemonium, a unique shop offering alternative fashion and accessories in the town’s historic core.
Rainbow Shells
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Discover unique local treasures, spiritual gems, and charming souvenirs at Rainbow Shells, Whitby’s cozy gift shop in the heart of town.
Dryden K & S
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Discover unique local crafts and charming souvenirs at Dryden K & S, a welcoming gift shop nestled in the heart of Whitby’s historic town center.
Esho Funi
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Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Esho Funi, Whitby’s charming and stylish gift shop on Marine Parade.
Whitby Gift Shop
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Discover authentic local crafts and unique coastal souvenirs at Whitby Gift Shop, a charming treasure on Marine Parade in historic Whitby.
The Little Shop of Wonderful Things
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Discover unique vintage treasures and quirky curios in the heart of Whitby’s historic Flowergate at The Little Shop of Wonderful Things.
Venus Trading
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Discover unique gifts and quirky treasures with warm local charm at Venus Trading, Whitby’s beloved novelty boutique.
Hildoceras
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Whitby's premier destination for locally crafted souvenirs, fossil treasures, and artisan gifts celebrating five decades of coastal heritage.
GutsyGingers
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Discover Whitby’s vibrant boutique offering handcrafted fashion, unique accessories, and eclectic homewares with a bohemian soul.
Furbellow & Co
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A classic Whitby barber and menswear shop where timeless style meets warm, personal service in a charming riverside setting.
Asylum Antiquities
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The Great Goth
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Yorkshire Trading Company
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A trusted Whitby department store offering diverse home, garden, and everyday essentials with friendly service and great value.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Buck Inn
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The Golden Lion
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The Esk Vaults
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The Black Swan
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The Ship Inn
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Beer oclock
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The Dolphin
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Little Angel
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A traditional Whitby pub with cozy rooms, lively entertainment, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Elsinore
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Black Horse Inn
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NO54 bistro bar
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The Quirky Den
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Macy Brown's - Cocktail Bar Whitby
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Stylish harborside cocktail bar in Whitby with stunning views, creative drinks, and a tempting tapas menu for sharing and socializing.
The Whitby Way
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Jk's Bar
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A lively, no-frills bar and club in Whitby known for dance music, live sports, and a raw local atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Videotheque Disco's
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Flares & Popworld - Middlesbrough
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Middlesbrough’s premier two-room nightclub blending retro vibes and modern beats for unforgettable nights out.
Stereo Club Tees
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Karaoke Rooms (KTV)
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BlueBox
66.1 km
York’s premier late-night nightclub, BlueBox pulses with House, Tech House, and Disco beats until dawn in a vibrant city-center setting.
Flares - York
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Kuda
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Club Salvation
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Popworld York
66.4 km
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Ziggy's Bar & Nightclub
66.5 km
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Bar 55 York
66.5 km
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7even Nightclub
67.9 km
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24 North Bailey Club
69.5 km
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Klute
69.6 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Osbournes
69.6 km
Experience Durham's vibrant nightlife at Osbournes, where craft drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Adventurous
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
