The people have spoken and the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards are in for the Best Whale Watching Tours—PVA members claimed four of the ten spots this year. Announced on June 3, the recognition brings attention to the world-class, unique experiences that the passenger vessel industry offers.
10. Cape May Whale Watcher – Cape May, N.J.
8. Kenai Fjords Tours –Seward, Alaska
6. Allen Marine Tours –Juneau, Alaska
3. PacWhale Eco-Adventures by Pacific Whale Foundation – Wailuku, Hawaii
PacWhale Eco-Adventures by Pacific Whale Foun-dation in Wiluku, Hawaii, landed the number three spot on USA TODAY’s top ten Best Whale Watching Tours list. // Photo: Photo: PacWhale Eco-Adventures by Pacific Whale Foundation
From the most northern state to the East Coast to the heart of the Pacific, the list showcases the commitment throughout the industry to delivering top-level hospitality, exceptional experiences, and cutting-edge innovation to make each guest’s time on the water unforgettable.
These operations introduce visitors to the rich marine ecosystem from the comfort of modern vessels, focusing on the biodiversity found in and along the waters surrounding all parts of the country. With sightings ranging from humpback whales to orcas, from puffins to glaciers, some cruises host naturalists on board to offer commentary and education about local wildlife and the environment they inhabit. On PacWhale Eco-Adventures trips, passengers can even listen to the whales singing underwater thanks to an on-board hydrophone.
The awards shine a light on the myriad offerings in the passenger vessel industry, and the fact that the public has taken notice. Operators are dedicated not only to crafting top quality cruises that create memories for guests, but they are committed to upholding the highest standards of safety and innovation to protect passengers and crew and to enhance every experience.
This recognition is not only for these individual operators, but for the entire industry. Companies from every corner of the passenger vessel community help make operations like these possible, raising the bar, and elevating the industry. Congratulations to the PVA members honored, and here’s to the successes of the industry being nationally celebrated.