Glide through Newport Harbor this winter with Seal Watch Tours to spot resting seals at Citing Rock and take in historic lighthouses. This two-hour educational cruise reveals wildlife and history tucked along Rhode Island’s dramatic coastline.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated time onboard with minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
Newport Harbor’s lighthouses helped safely guide ships since the 18th century, marking one of America’s earliest maritime hubs.
Conservation
Save The Bay emphasizes sustainable practices on all tours to minimize human impact on fragile coastal ecosystems.
Seal Watch Tours
Glide through Newport Harbor this winter with Seal Watch Tours to spot resting seals at Citing Rock and take in historic lighthouses. This two-hour educational cruise reveals wildlife and history tucked along Rhode Island’s dramatic coastline.
Seal Watch Tours is a Newport, Rhode Island–based boat tour operator specializing in seal-watching excursions, lighthouse cruises, and nature-focused voyages in Narragansett Bay and nearby waterways.
The company offers a set of distinct experiences including Newport Seal Tours, Westerly Nature Cruises, the Newport Seal & Lighthouse Tour, and the Ultimate Lighthouse Tours. Trips operate from Newport and nearby launch points seasonally, with routes that highlight coastal wildlife, historic harbors, and iconic lighthouses.
The Westerly Nature Cruises travel down the Pawcatuck River into Little Narragansett Bay for a 60-minute scenic outing that showcases autumn foliage and migratory harbor seals resting on shore. The Newport Seal & Lighthouse Tour includes seal watching at Citing Rock and guided passages through historic Newport Harbor aboard an educational vessel. The Ultimate Lighthouse Tours is a seven-hour Save The Bay itinerary visiting up to 20 lighthouse sites in Narragansett Bay, including a stop at Rose Island and a provided lunch.
Seal Watch Tours centers each trip on wildlife viewing and local maritime history. Guests are encouraged to bring binoculars and layered clothing to maximize comfort and viewing opportunities. Scheduling is seasonal and weather dependent; routes and availability can change. For current departure times, booking details, and ticketing, consult the tour operator’s published schedule.
Seal Watch Tours provides focused experiences for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and visitors seeking guided exploration of Newport’s marine environment and shoreline landmarks.
Base Location
Newport, RI
Historic coastal port city
Tours Offered
4 Tours
Seal, lighthouse, and nature cruises
Typical Length
60–420 min
Short cruises to full-day tours
Wildlife Focus
Harbor seals & birds
Seal-watching and coastal wildlife
Reserve seats for seasonal seal sightings, nature cruises, and full-day lighthouse tours — ideal for families and wildlife lovers.
Dress for winter coastal weather
Layers and windproof clothing are essential, as temperatures on the water can feel much colder than on land.
Bring binoculars or use provided ones
Close-up views of seals and distant lighthouses require good optics to enhance the experience.
Arrive early to check in
Allow time for boarding and pre-tour briefing to maximize your time on the water.
Motion sensitivity precautions
Those prone to seasickness should consider medication or remedies, as coastal waters can be choppy in winter.
Waterproof jacket
Protects from wind and spray on chilly winter waters.
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Binoculars
Enhances wildlife and lighthouse viewing beyond the boat’s deck.
Warm layers
Keeps you comfortable against Rhode Island’s coastal cold.
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Non-slip shoes
Provides stable footing on a wet deck.