Choosing the Best Binoculars for Whale Watching

Best Compact Binoculars

The Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Compact Roof Prism Binoculars are perfect for travelers who want lightweight and easy-to-carry binoculars.

Its high-quality roof prism design and multi-coated optics give you a crystal-clear view of your surroundings, even in low light conditions.

But what really sets the Bushnell H2O apart is its 100% waterproof and fogproof construction.

Their durable rubber coating allows them to withstand the wear and tear of even the most rugged adventures.

With its powerful 10x magnification and 25mm objective diameter, you’ll be able to see every detail of your surroundings with stunning clarity. The clarity is excellent for their size, and they’re a great starter pair if you’re not ready to splurge.

Adjust the large central focus knob to make these the best whale watching binoculars.

Why Choose the Bushnell Binoculars

Chances are, you will get wet if you are on a whale-watching excursion.

These Bushnell binoculars are compact and 100% waterproof, making them the perfect whale-watching binoculars.

Their low price and small size make them a fantastic economical choice for the best travel binoculars for whale watching.

Best Middle of the Road Binoculars

The Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×42 Roof Prism Binoculars were recommended by the onboard naturalist, and after using them, I understand why.

The Vortex Optics Diamondback HD binoculars are a bit of an investment, but the clarity and field of view are unmatched. They’re also durable, which is a must for any outdoor activity.

If you’re serious about whale watching, these are worth every penny.

Here are some of the key benefits of the Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×42 binoculars:

• Crystal-Clear Optics: The binoculars feature fully multi-coated lenses that provide crystal-clear images, even in low light conditions. With a 10x magnification and a 42mm objective lens diameter, you can enjoy stunningly clear and bright images of your surroundings.
• Durable and Lightweight: Made with a rugged rubber armor coating, this binocular is built to withstand the toughest outdoor conditions. It is fog proof and lightweight, making it easy to carry around with you on your adventures.
• Easy to Use: The binocular features a smooth center focus wheel that allows you to quickly and easily adjust the focus, even with one hand. It also has twist-up eyecups that provide comfortable viewing for people who wear glasses.
• Versatile: Whether you’re bird watching, hiking, camping, or attending a sporting event, the Vortex Optics Diamondback 10×42 Roof Prism Binocular is the perfect tool for all your outdoor activities.

Why Choose the Vortex Binoculars

These Vortex Diamondback binoculars are a bit pricier than the other binoculars on this list, but they are the naturalist’s preferred and most often used binoculars.

The customer service from this company is outstanding based on the naturalist’s personal experience and reviews on Amazon.

Best Binoculars for Whale Watching Photos

If you’re like me and want to capture the moment without juggling a camera and binoculars, the Adasion High Definition binoculars are a game-changer.

The binoculars also have a universal phone adapter, allowing you to capture and share your adventures with friends and family. Simply attach your phone to the adapter and snap away.

During my first Alaska whale-watching trip, I used these to snap a picture of a minke whale spouting in the distance and sea lions on a buoy during a Sitka Fin Island Lodge excursion.

The setup was easy, but it does take some time to learn the best settings. However, the results were stunning.

Plus, having the photos is a fun way to share your experience with friends who couldn’t be there. Or to make them jealous—no judgment!

With a powerful 12x magnification and a 42mm large objective lenses, these binoculars offer a super bright and large field of view that will bring you closer to the action.

You’ll be able to spot even the most elusive animals and birds with ease. The simple-to-use eyecups twist up and down to see with or without glasses, and the eye relief range is 13.6 mm to 19.6 mm.

These binoculars are designed with your comfort in mind. They are lightweight and easy to carry, making them perfect for all-day use. Plus, they are waterproof, so you can take them with you on all your outdoor adventures, no matter the weather.

Here are some of the benefits of the 12×42 HD Binoculars for Adults:

• High power magnification for a super bright and wide field of view
• Universal phone adapter for easy sharing of your adventures
• Lightweight and easy to carry for all-day use
• Waterproof design for use in any weather
• Perfect for whale watching, hunting, outdoor sports, travel, and more

Why Choose the Adasion Binoculars

The Adasion binoculars are the exact binoculars that I used for whale watching in Alaska.

They include a tripod, a phone adapter, and a carrying case.

Even if you don’t use them with a camera, they also act as amazing stand-alone binoculars.

Connect your smartphone to the adapter and snap pictures and videos from the binocular view.

Although it comes with a 2-foot tripod, I wanted extra height. I connected my 4-foot selfie stick tripod, and it attached easily.

Finding the right focus does take time, so I recommend playing with them before your whale-watching experience.

The photos can be zoomed in or kept with the black circle from the binocular lens.

Tips for Whale Watching with Binoculars

Before you grab your gear and head to the railing, here are a few tips I learned from the naturalist and my own experience:

• Practice beforehand: Spend some time getting familiar with your binoculars. Practice focusing quickly because whales don’t wait around for you to adjust.
• Look for spouts: Whale spouts are easier to spot than the whales. Once you see a spray, zoom in and wait for the whale to surface.
• Be patient: Whale watching is a waiting game. Keep your binoculars handy and your eyes on the horizon.
• Bring a strap: You don’t want to drop your binoculars overboard. A neck or wrist strap is a must.

Final Thoughts

Whale watching is one of the most awe-inspiring experiences you can have, especially in a place as wild and beautiful as Alaska.

The right binoculars can make all the difference, turning a distant splash into an up-close encounter with one of nature’s giants.

Whether you’re packing compact Bushnells, splurging on Vortex Optics, snapping photos with Adasion, or rediscovering a pair you already own, the key is to use what works best for you.

So, grab your binoculars, head out to the deck, and keep your eyes on the horizon. You never know when a whale might decide to put on a show.