December 6 All Day Pelagic from Hyannis

On Saturday, December 6, 2025 pelagic trip the BBC wuill sponsor a full day pelagic from Hyannis to Nantucket Shoals aboard the Helen H. We will leave the dock at 7:00 AM and plan to return to Hyannis around 4:00 PM.

Every trip is different, and early December can offer a range of species. Often there are spectacular congregations of sea ducks in Nantucket Sound – tens of thousands are possible. It is a real wildlife spectacle. Winter gulls may be around (Iceland, Glaucous, Lesser Black-backed, Black-legged Kittiwake), as may Northern Gannets and Northern Fulmar. As we get to the Nantucket Shoals, a shallow, sandy-bottomed area southeast of Nantucket, there should be lingering shearwaters (Manx, Great, Cory’s, Sooty) and storm-petrels (Wilson’s and Leach’s) with the possibility of jaegers (Parasitic, Pomerine) or even a skua. Alcids are tough but possible, dovekie is a goal- and there is always a chance of a puffin. There are opportunities to see a number of other sea creatures as well – whales, dolphins, sharks, turtles, Mola-mola, Tuna, and Portuguese Man o’ War.

REGISTER HERE – EACH PERSON IN YOUR PARTY MUST SUBMIT A SEPARATE REGISTRATION FORM

Cost: $110 per person for BBC members/$130 per person for nonmembers (payment link will appear after you submit the registration form).

Cancellations: Due to weather conditions, the captain of the Helen H may cancel the trip if predicted sea conditions are too rough. We will keep you informed as soon as we know about the status of the trip. The captain will typically make a decision about weather once the marine forecast becomes available – Tuesday/Wednesday before the trip, but it can be cancelled even later than that.

If you can’t make the trip, please let us know. If there is someone on the waiting list who can take your place, we can issue you a refund, but otherwise you will be charged.

What should I bring: Since the weather varies greatly from trip to trip, bring an assortment of rain and warm clothes; sunglasses, sunscreen, and hat; water and snacks; anti-nausea pills; and cameras and binoculars.

The boat: The Helen H, a 100 foot aluminum deep sea fishing boat powered by a fast 2700 Horsepower engine, is a Coast Guard approved deep sea fishing boat. The cabin has several fixed tables and benches, while the deck and sides have many long benches. Between the bow, deck and sides, there are many places to view birds. There are two toilets on the boat.

If you have any questions please email bbcpelagics@gmail.com and we will assist you!

News Categories

Upcoming Field Trips

  • Cape Ann

    Gloucester - Fisherman's Monument Gloucester Fisherman's Memorial, 60 Western Ave, Gloucester, MA, United States

    We will search for alcids and other wintering seabirds. Be prepared for cold and windy weather. If inclement weather is predicted, contact the leader by 6:00 pm the previous evening.

  • Early Birders @ Millennium Park

    West Roxbury - Millennium Park 300 Gardner Street, Boston, MA, United States

    Join fellow birders in their 20s-30s on a trip to Millennium Park for wintertime birding! Located in the West Roxbury neighborhood of Boston, Millennium Park is host to a wide variety of resident & migratory bird species that enjoy its unique habitat. As we traverse the park, expect to look for wintering songbirds, waterfowl, and

  • Castle Island & Pleasure Bay

    South Boston - Castle Island Parking Lot, 2080 Day Blvd. 2080 Day Blvd., Boston, MA, United States

    We will search for wintering alcids, loons & sea ducks, shorebirds, and Snowy Owls. The walk is suitable for all levels from advanced to beginner. Dress warmly and be prepared for snow/ice, cold, and wind. Expect to walk approximately 2 miles on paved/level paths. Boots & Yak Traks or similar antiskid footwear recommended in case

  • Deer Island & Boston Harbor, Winthrop

    Winthrop - Deer Island Parking Lot 180 Tafts Ave., Winthrop, MA, United States

    We will search for wintering seabirds, alcids, and Iceland Gulls. Be prepared for cold and wind and dress very warmly. Depending on conditions, we will walk up to 2.6 miles on paved paths. Port-a-potties available midway. Beginners welcome and encouraged. Bad weather or poor walking conditions may cancel - email trip leaders if you are

Go to Top