Old Sow Whirlpool
Witness the raw power of the western hemisphere's largest whirlpool, a mesmerizing display of tidal forces in the Bay of Fundy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness peak whirlpool activity
Old Sow Whirlpool
Best Time
Witness peak whirlpool activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the raw power of the western hemisphere's largest whirlpool, a mesmerizing display of tidal forces in the Bay of Fundy.
"Highly recommend taking the boat charter to come check it out!"
Check Tide Charts First! :chart_with_upwards_trend:
The whirlpool's intensity is tide-dependent. Always check local tide charts before visiting.
Boat Tours for the Best View :boat:
For a truly immersive experience, book a boat tour from Eastport, ME or Deer Island, NB.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Main Event: Old Sow Whirlpool
Offshore Deer Island, NB & Eastport, ME
Witness the raw power of the western hemisphere's largest whirlpool, a mesmerizing display of tidal forces.
Deer Island Point Park Views
Deer Island, New Brunswick
Observe the whirlpool's turbulence from shore and enjoy scenic coastal views.
Marine Life Encounters
Bay of Fundy waters
Keep an eye out for seals and potentially whales, often drawn to the nutrient-rich waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Old Sow
Getting Up Close to the Action
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Charts First! :chart_with_upwards_trend:
The whirlpool's intensity is tide-dependent. Always check local tide charts before visiting.
Boat Tours for the Best View :boat:
For a truly immersive experience, book a boat tour from Eastport, ME or Deer Island, NB.
Look for 'Pigglets' :pig2:
Smaller whirlpools are called 'pigglets' and are also fascinating to observe.
Sea Glass & Geology :gem:
The shores near Deer Island Point Park are great for finding sea glass and exploring interesting rock formations.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Charts First! :chart_with_upwards_trend:
The whirlpool's intensity is tide-dependent. Always check local tide charts before visiting.
Boat Tours for the Best View :boat:
For a truly immersive experience, book a boat tour from Eastport, ME or Deer Island, NB.
Look for 'Pigglets' :pig2:
Smaller whirlpools are called 'pigglets' and are also fascinating to observe.
Sea Glass & Geology :gem:
The shores near Deer Island Point Park are great for finding sea glass and exploring interesting rock formations.
Seal Spotting :seal:
Seals are often seen playing in the whirlpool's currents.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Old Sow Whirlpool a unique and awe-inspiring natural wonder, especially when viewed from a boat tour. While some experiences from shore are less dramatic, the potential for seeing marine life like seals and whales adds to the appeal. The 'pigglets' and the sheer power of the tides are consistently highlighted as fascinating aspects.
"Unique. Went to the Canadian side and saw turbulence, even looked like a few whirlpool at times, not constant. Would love to take a boat to get closer if I'm ever back in the area. You could feel the chaos in the water looking at the area from the beacon."
Lidie Gorupić
"Lovely spot - Old Sow is very cool. Beach area has lots of sea glass and interesting geology. We saw several seals enjoying Old Sow's currents."
Travis Jones
"Really cool experience! I came here from the Downeast Boat Charter Whale Watch in Lubec. The best time to come is during low tide. The pools were just getting started when we arrived, but we were still able to see many of the "pigglets". Apparently Old Sow got the name due to the sucking sound the whirlpool makes and reminded people of a pig. That's what the smaller ones are called pigglets! Old Sow is also the most geologically significant whirlpool in the east, and at it's deepest point, is over 400 feet deep. Crazy! The captain drove through the waters and you could tell how much he was being pulled to and fro by the whirlpools. The whirlpools, when very dramatic, may have as much as a six foot difference from the top of the bottom of the spiral as well.
Highly recommend taking the boat charter I mentioned above to come check it out!"
Nipako Sāmaṇera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Sow Whirlpool is located in the Bay of Fundy, between Deer Island, New Brunswick, Canada, and Eastport, Maine, USA. You can access it by car to nearby viewpoints like Deer Island Point Park in New Brunswick,
Yes, you can observe the turbulence and sometimes see smaller whirlpools from Deer Island Point Park in New Brunswick. However, the most dramatic views are from a boat.
You can take the ferry from Deer Island, New Brunswick, to Campobello Island, and then to Lubec, Maine, or vice versa. Alternatively, driving around the border is an option.
Deer Island Point Park offers a good vantage point on the Canadian side. On the US side, boat tours from Eastport are the primary way to get close.
Parking is generally available at Deer Island Point Park. For boat tours, parking will be at the respective tour operator's departure point in Eastport or Deer Island.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to Deer Island Point Park is typically free. However, boat tours to get closer to the whirlpool require booking tickets in advance.
Prices vary by tour operator and duration, but expect to pay around $75-$150 USD per person for a whale watching and whirlpool tour.
The whirlpool is a natural phenomenon and is always active, but its intensity varies with tides. Viewing from Deer Island Point Park is generally during daylight hours. Boat tours operate on scheduled times.
Yes, most tour operators offer online booking for their Old Sow Whirlpool and whale watching excursions. It's highly recommended to book ahead, especially during peak season.
While not always strictly enforced, it's advisable to check with the specific tour operator. Some may have recommendations for younger children due to the potentially rough waters.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most dramatic activity occurs during the turning of the tides (slack tide). Check local tide charts to time your visit for the strongest currents and most visible whirlpools.
Dress in layers, as coastal weather can change quickly. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are recommended, especially if you're going on a boat tour. Comfortable walking shoes are also a good idea.
Swimming in the Old Sow Whirlpool is extremely dangerous and strongly discouraged due to the powerful currents and unpredictable nature of the whirlpools.
Besides the whirlpool itself, you might spot seals, and during whale watching season (late spring to fall), you could see various whale species, dolphins, and seabirds.
The whirlpool is a result of tidal currents, so it's always present, but its intensity and visibility vary greatly with the tide. It's most dramatic during peak tidal changes.
📸 📸 Photography
From Deer Island Point Park, you can capture the scale of the whirlpool and the surrounding coastline. Boat tours offer unique perspectives from within the turbulent waters, allowing for dramatic shots of the swirling water.
Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the motion of the water. A tripod can be helpful for stability, especially in lower light conditions. Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the water.
While boat tours offer incredible photo opportunities, be mindful of the spray and motion. A waterproof case for your phone or camera is highly recommended.
Yes, the smaller whirlpools, or 'pigglets,' can be photographed. They often appear closer to shore or in shallower areas and can be quite dynamic.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful lighting. However, the most important factor is the tide; photograph the whirlpool when it's most active, regardless of the time of day.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more engaging experience, consider a boat tour. Many tours are family-friendly and offer the thrill of being on the water, spotting seals, and seeing the impressive whirlpool. Ensure the tour operator is experienced with children and provides life jackets. The 'pigglets' (smaller whirlpools) can be particularly fascinating for younger minds.
🚢 Adventure Seekers
Some tours may even offer a thrilling ride through the less intense parts of the whirlpool's influence, providing an exhilarating experience. Combine this with whale watching for a full day of marine adventure.
📸 Photographers & Nature Enthusiasts
For the best shots, time your visit with the turning tides and consider a boat tour for dynamic perspectives. Don't forget to bring waterproof gear for your camera and phone, as spray is common. The chance to photograph marine life like seals and whales adds another layer of appeal.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Old Sow's Power
The intensity of the Old Sow is directly linked to the tidal cycle. When the tide is turning, either coming in or going out, the currents are at their strongest, creating the most impressive whirlpools. At slack tide, when the water is momentarily still between the incoming and outgoing flows, the whirlpool may be calm or barely visible.
This unique geological feature has earned its name from the distinctive 'sucking' sound it can make, reminiscent of a sow feeding. The smaller, less intense whirlpools are often referred to as 'pigglets.'
Experiencing the Old Sow: Shore vs. Sea
However, for a truly unforgettable experience, taking a boat tour is highly recommended. Charters depart from both Eastport, Maine, and Deer Island, New Brunswick, and often combine whirlpool viewing with whale watching. These tours navigate the waters near the Old Sow, allowing you to feel the boat being pulled by the currents and witness the swirling vortexes up close.
When choosing a boat tour, consider operators that specialize in both whirlpool viewing and marine life. Many captains are experienced in navigating these waters safely and can provide fascinating insights into the local ecology and the formation of the whirlpool.
Marine Life in the Bay of Fundy
Seals are frequently spotted near the whirlpool, seemingly unfazed by the turbulent waters as they play and hunt. During the warmer months, particularly from late spring through fall, the bay becomes a prime location for whale watching. Humpback whales, fin whales, and minke whales are common visitors, drawn by the abundant food sources.
Beyond whales and seals, keep an eye out for various seabirds that inhabit the area. The combination of the dramatic whirlpool and the chance to see marine mammals makes a boat tour a doubly rewarding experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit