Frequently Asked Whale Tour Questions
How close do the Whales come to the boat?
Ever since the Captain rescued a Pilot Whale trapped in a net in 2001, the whales have loved the Oshan. Sometimes the whales are shy, while other times they like to come quite close to the boat. We like to keep our distance and let the whales come to us. Also, we like to remind people that every tour is different and sometimes the whales just want to feed instead of checking out the boat.
What whales do you see the most?
Pilot whales, minke whales, Atlantic white-sided dolphins, fin whales, and humpbacks are sighted the most often.
Do you see the same whales every tour?
The same groups of whales return to our area each year, we recognize them by their scars and markings, but on a daily basis each tour is different. It could be all Pilot Whales one day, followed by all Fin Whales the next.
What time of day is the best for Whale Watching?
At 10.30 am and 4.30 pm there are less people, but, there are whales around all day, so pick the time which suits your schedule.
Can you see whales in the rain?
Yes. Thick fog and wind are detrimental to whale watching, but not rain.
How long is each tour?
Roughly two and a half hours.
Should I book ahead?
The Oshan is quite large and can accommodate a large number of people, but we recommend you book ahead just to be safe.
How big is your boat?
42 feet/10 Meters Long.
How many passengers can you take at once?
24 passengers with room to spare.
What style of boat is it?
Northumberland Strait Style Fishing Boat, a modification on the design fishermen have trusted for years.
What are the advantages to the Northumberland Strait Style Fishing Boat?
The Northumberland Strait Style boat was specifically designed for the waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, combining size with speed; therefore, it is one of the safest hulls for the area. In addition, the design/size of the hull (42 feet, 10 meters long) enables the Oshan to maintain both speed and comfort in rough or windy weather, unlike smaller vessels.
Are there life-jackets on board?
Yes. The Oshan is Coast Guard Approved with enough life jackets on board for over twice our passengers, plus a pair of life rings, a life raft and other safety equipment.
Is the boat wheel-chair accessible?
Yes, but call ahead because if it is low tide the crew will provide extra help. The Oshan moors beside floating docks, so when the tide is really low an extra set of hands makes maneauvering the wheel-chair easier.
Is there washroom facilities on board?
No, we don’t. However, there is a small bathroom above the wharf where we dock.
Do you allow pets on board?
Yes, if no other passengers object, or we can look after your pet onshore.
Will I get seasick?
If you get car sick, you will get sea sick. We recommend a gravol before the tour, and we have anti-seasickness bands aboard.
What should we take with us?
It's always colder on the water, so dress warmer than it is on land. Take some water and snacks if you like. Don't forget your sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, binoculars, and other sight-seeing gear.
Is there a safe place to park my bike or motorcycle?
Yes, there is ample parking room away from traffic.
Is there enough room to park my camper or trailer?
Yes, the parking lot is quite large.