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Cape Ann Whale Watch accepts interns for its Field Research and Environmental Education internship program. Based in Gloucester, MA, each of our trips takes between 150 and 250 passengers out to the Gulf of Maine, which mCay include the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary. We are a WCA (World Cetacean Alliance) certified whale watch operation. Specializing in education, we strive to educate passengers about whales and the environment. It is our goal to inspire a sense of respect and personal responsibility for the well-being of the planet.
Passengers aboard Hurricane II are an extremely diverse group of people ranging from elementary school children to families from across the globe. Each trip includes two interns and the naturalist aiming to accomplish our goal of educating people about whales and fostering a stronger appreciation and respect for the marine environment and wildlife. With this newfound respect and appreciation, the team of educators hope to promote stewardship for our planet. Marine life and the environment have a better chance of thriving if we can positively impact the attitudes and behaviors of our passengers.
To accomplish this goal, our interns circulate the boat with hands-on teaching tools educating the public about whales and their environment: Some implements are baleen and tooth samples, a 3-D model of Stellwagen Bank to help explain how feeding grounds are created in this region and our whale-tail matching board which allows passengers to practice their field identification skills. While we are in the presence of the whales, the naturalist provides an educational interpretive commentary while the interns collect behavioral data and as well as data that supports their research project. The interns are also expected to answer questions on a wide variety of topics, from whale behavior to conservation. Finally, the interns help with the general functioning of the whale watching vessel.
In addition, interns are expected to participate in activities off the boat. Interns submit their data electronically and participate in regular Zoom meetings that provide a forum for discussion about whales, current issues and the whale watch program. Interns are to complete an independent study project either directed by their university or assist with the ongoing research at Cape Ann Whale Watch.
Interns are required to work at least three days a week on the boat, including one day on the weekend. In the spring and fall, there is one trip each day, while in the summer, there are two trips per day; however, all weekends have two trips a day.
Former interns have received degrees in biology, psychology, education, history, foreign affairs, environmental law, hospitality, philosophy etc. You do not need to be a biology major to apply. We are looking for students who will make the most of the amazing opportunities this internship has to offer.
This internship is geared to college students and recent college graduates. However, anyone who is interested in helping Cape Ann Whale Watch and the educators/researchers or in learning about whales is encouraged to apply. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about whales, marine wildlife, the ocean and education. Applicants for this position should feel comfortable with public speaking, teaching small groups, working with school-aged children and diverse populations.
To Apply: send a resume, cover letter stating why you're interested in this internship, 2 written letters of recommendation and an unofficial transcript to:
Email to (preferred method): cawwnaturalist@gmail.com
OR
Mail to: Cape Ann Whale Watch
c/o Christina McMahon Foley
P.O. Box 345
Gloucester, MA 01930
We are presently accepting applications, and early submissions are highly encouraged.
Applications for the spring/summer 2026 will be accepted until March 1st; applications for the fall 2026 season are accepted until July 1st. Once a completed application is received, you will be contacted for an interview (in person or via Zoom). Applicants will be notified soon thereafter. The whale watch season begins in late April and runs through the month of October. During this time, we ask that interns devote at least 6-8 weeks to the internship. This is an unpaid internship and presently housing is not provided. Interns do receive gratuities while working on the boat and we will work to help accommodate your schedule.
Questions can be directed to: cawwnaturalist@gmail.com; attn: Christina McMahon Foley
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