Winter Wildlife Watching
Plan your wildlife watching getaway!
Virginia Beach is a good destination to view humpback, fin, and minke whales migrating to warmer waters. Enjoy a winter wildlife boat trip with Rudee Tours and the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center's Whales & Wildlife Sea Adventures.
Virginia Beach’s winter wildlife watching tours offer a rare opportunity to possibly spot these majestic creatures up close, as well as brown pelicans, northern gannets, and double-crested cormorants. Be sure to bring your binoculars, and of course, whale sightings are not guaranteed.
The two and a half-hour narrated trips travel past the Cape Henry Lighthouses, the Virginia Beach Surf and Rescue Museum and other historic landmarks, so the photography opportunities are tremendous.
Tour Schedule
-
The 2.5-hour boat trips aboard Atlantic Explorer for the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center begin November 23 through end of December. Note that boating conditions and optimal sighting times may require the schedule to shift.
Rates are $29.95 for Adults/Seniors; $24.95 for children ages 4 to 11, and children 3 and younger are free. Aquarium members $26 Adults; $22 Children (3-11)The tour departs from the Virginia Aquarium dock.
-
Join the "whale whisperer" Captain Jeff of the Rudee Flipper at Rudee Tours as he navigates the waters in search of whales and other cold water residents. Whale Watching tours run on a limited schedule between Friday, 11/23/18 through Friday, 12/28/18. Please call to confirm trip times. Regular whale watching tours are offered Wednesday 1/2/19 through Sunday, 3/10/19:
- Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays at 2:00pm
- Saturdays & Sundays at 11:00am & 2:00pm
He GUARANTEES whale sightings December through February 15 or you'll get a second tour for free!
Rates are $28 for adults; $24 for children ages 4 to 11, and children 3 and younger are free.
The tour departs from Rudee Tours at Lake Rudee.
Tour Tips
- Dress for the cold! The air temperature is colder on the water than on land. Wear a hat, gloves, heavy socks, scarves, and non-skid shoes. Layers are advisable.
- Don't forget your camera and binoculars!
- Trips are not cancelled due to rain, but may be cancelled for unsafe conditions.
Last Updated: 11/22/2019