The Center for Oceanic Research and Education and Yankee Whale Watching invite you to join us on an extended research trip to the Great South Channel! Extended trips allow us extra time to visit offshore areas that are impossible to reach during our regular half-day whale watching trips. Additionally, this type of trip affords us the luxury of spending more time actually observing the whales, dolphins, porpoises or other marine life we may encounter. The Great South Channel, located off of Cape Cod and Rhode Island is almost always a whale hotspot, and we are one of only two research groups that has the opportunity to regularly visit this amazing area.

This excursion departs August 18th at 10 p.m. from the Yankee Whale Watching in Gloucester, Massachusetts, aboard the M/V Yankee Capts. This 100 foot Gulfcraft has seen countless offshore trips and has proven to be a very seaworthy and comfortable vessel. She boasts 50 bunks below deck, ample rail space around the main deck, an accommodating cabin and galley, as well as a wide upper deck for distant viewing. On board will be at least two CORE scientists who will lead the trip and explain, in detail, all about the research value of such extended excursions, as well as point out and explain each cetacean sighting. There will also be plenty of additional educational materials for passengers to peruse at their leisure. Additionally, a bird expert will be on board to assist with sightings and offer his/her expertise in the recognition and habits of the many different bird species we may observe.

In addition to visiting the Great South Channel and all that it has to offer, we will spend the evening of the 19th on Nantucket Island! This beautiful island, once known for its rich  whaling history, is now a bustling tourist stop, featuring wonderful restaurants, shops and beaches. Our trip will take us to the island around 7pm on the 19th, where passengers can hop onto the island for dinner and relaxation. We will venture offshore again at 2am, to make it to the whale feeding grounds by daybreak. If you've never been to Nantucket, you're really in for a treat!

The fare for this two day research trip is only $260.00. Breakfast and lunch aboard the boat for both days are included in the fare, with snacks and non-alcoholic beverages provided. Carbonated drinks, beer and wine may be purchased in the galley for those who might be interested, and food may be brought on board for those with special dietary requirements. We will return to port the evening on August 20th around 7pm. A $50 per person deposit is required upon registration to insure your reservation. When your deposit is received, we will send a letter of confirmation and a diagram for you to choose your bunk.