A recent survey ranks whales' bellies ahead of safety deposit boxes and mattresses as the preferred place to store valuables. Experience one of nature's most priceless resources with today's deal: for $25, you get one adult ticket (a $45 value) aboard a four-hour whale-watching tour from Yankee Fleet in Gloucester. Free parking is available, and passengers are encouraged to check in 30 minutes before departure time to ensure the boat doesn't leave anyone behind.

Yankee Fleet's knowledgeable naturalists narrate the tour with nuggets of whale wisdom, and on-board whale researchers are available to answer one-on-one questions. While eyes are sure to be filled with majestic sightings of mammalian sea beasts (if you don't see one, your next trip is free), the body's fellow senses won't be forgotten. Passengers may have the opportunity to listen to whale sounds, touch whale artifacts, help capture plankton, analyze water visibility, and measure how far away whales are by counting the seconds between their lightning flashes.

Afternoon departures are offered every day of the week through October. It's recommended that seafarers dress in layers, since it can be 15 degrees cooler on the water. Other advisable attire from this season's hottest whale-watching fashions includes loose-toed shoes, sunglasses, and hats. If given advance notice, Yankee Fleet also offers educational onboard activities for kids to learn about the animal kingdom's largest member through crafts and games.

Seats are filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Call ahead to reserve a seat. There is limited availability for afternoon sailing on weekends in July and August due to high summertime demand.

Reviews

People are too busy enjoying the fresh sea air to sit down and write reviews with their salty hands, but four Yelpers do give Yankee Fleet a perfect five stars:

• I've done their whale-watching tour twice now, and loved it each time. – Adam B.
• It's been great and I plan on doing it again with my friends this year. – Ryan M.