The Whaling Company
Experience fresh seafood and steaks in a unique New England boathouse setting with exceptional service and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blue hour photography, calmer galleries
The Whaling Company
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience fresh seafood and steaks in a unique New England boathouse setting with exceptional service and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
"The food was delicious, the atmosphere was perfectly fitting and we loved the decor, but above all the service was incredible! "
Make Reservations
Consider booking ahead for large groups to guarantee a table. [^data.tips[0]]
Check Kitchen Hours
Arrive early or confirm hours, as kitchen times may vary. [^data.tips[1]]
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Seafood
Price
$$$
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Fresh Seafood Delights
Savor the bounty of the sea with Cajun buttered shrimp, clam chowder, and fresh catch-of-the-day fish. [^M1]
Cozy New England Ambiance
Dine in a charming boathouse setting, complete with nautical decor for a unique, warm atmosphere. [^M3]
Exceptional Service
Experience attentive and friendly service from staff members like Albert and Destiny.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Make Reservations
Consider booking ahead for large groups to guarantee a table. [^data.tips[0]]
Check Kitchen Hours
Arrive early or confirm hours, as kitchen times may vary. [^data.tips[1]]
Try Unique Dishes
Explore signature items like 'Sonny's plate' or the Boatdock fried seafood platter. [^data.tips[2]]
Military Discount
Active military and veterans can enjoy a special discount.
Tips
from all over the internet
Make Reservations
Consider booking ahead for large groups to guarantee a table. [^data.tips[0]]
Check Kitchen Hours
Arrive early or confirm hours, as kitchen times may vary. [^data.tips[1]]
Try Unique Dishes
Explore signature items like 'Sonny's plate' or the Boatdock fried seafood platter. [^data.tips[2]]
Military Discount
Active military and veterans can enjoy a special discount.
Beware of Extra Charges
Review your bill carefully for potential added service charges. [^R8, ^tripadvisor_data.reviews[2].id]
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Whaling Company offers a cozy, boathouse-themed dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood and attentive service. While many praise the quality of the seafood and the friendly staff, some find the prices high and certain dishes lacking in flavor or freshness. Desserts, like the key lime pie and chocolate brownie, are often highlighted as standouts. [^R1, ^R2, ^R3, ^R5, ^R6, ^R7, ^R8, ^tripadvisordata.reviews[1].id, ^tripadvisordata.reviews[2].id]
"We just finished an amazing meal here. The food was delicious, the atmosphere was perfectly fitting and we loved the decor, but above all the service was incredible! One major win for parents at this location is they understand the need to feed the kids asap! Might sound dumb to some, but this is a huge value to us and meant a lot! Mr Albert is a gem, keep this man happy and here because if/when we return to town we will be looking for him! We’ve ate at a handful of locations in town so far and loved many, but this one is the only so far that we absolutely will return to!"
John Cook
"I want to start with the service was great! Destiny was a wonderful server. Food….for the price…okay here we go. Peel and eat shrimp were old. Shells would not peel off without the meat coming off too. Pasta was flavorless. Chicken sandwich was small, and not a good piece of meat on the bun. Prices were high. Key lime pie was to die for though. Forgot that picture."
Breanna Thomas
"My husband and I came here for the first time and were thoroughly impressed. This was on a Saturday just before 6pm (which was kind of early for us but we wanted to beat the dinner crowds).
When we walked in, we were seated rightaway in a nice quiet corner.
We had a very friendly food server who was took excellent care of us. We were given glasses of water to start with before giving our order and getting a small loaf of bread and whipped butter.
When our food arrived, it looked so good I forgot to take a picture before starting on it. I got this very delicious stuffed salmon which came in a very decent and filling portion. I opted for rice pilaf and asparagus to go with it. I also had a glass of chilled chardonnay (didn't take a picture of it).
Everything was so good. Food, service and atmosphere included. Will have to come here again and try other dishes from their menu 😋"
Liggy Blough
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Customers rave about the fresh seafood, including Cajun buttered shrimp, clam chowder, crab legs, and the Boatdock fried seafood platter. [^data.reasonsToVisit[0], ^data.tips[2], ^tripadvisordata.popularmentions[1]]
Yes, the restaurant is noted as being semi-kid-friendly and they prioritize feeding children quickly. [^R1, ^M5]
Yes, The Whaling Company offers a discount for military personnel and veterans.
The restaurant has a casual, old-school eatery vibe, suggesting a relaxed dress code is appropriate. [^data.placeMetadata.description]
It's advised to consider making a reservation in advance, especially if you're visiting with a large group. [^data.tips[0]]
Some reviews indicate that prices can be a bit high compared to other restaurants, but mention is made of early dining specials. [^M5, ^R6, ^tripadvisor_data.reviews[2].id]
The restaurant does offer vegetarian options on its menu, though it primarily focuses on seafood. [^data.placeMetadata.generatedDescription]
Mentioned in
Featured in these publications
Restaurants in Williamsburg and Hampton Roads
Fresh seafood is the drawing card at this large wooden building, which wouldn't look out of place in a New England fishing village. Despite its out-of-town look, the restaurant has an authenticity sometimes hard to find in touristy towns. Locals come in for the fresh Virginia scallops, shrimp, fish, and other seafood.
Local Restaurants Serving Thanksgiving Dinner
The Whaling Company is know for their fresh fish, prepared with simplicity and care, all at reasonable prices. They offer an inviting and entertaining atmosphere and their menu focuses on local and homemade dishes, highlighting our commitment to quality and sustainability. For over 30 years, they’ve partnered with Sam Rust Seafood, ensuring that their menu features the freshest fish, oysters, scallops, and shrimp sourced from trusted local suppliers.
The Best of the Best Seafood Restaurants in Williamsburg VA
Some of the best local seafood (and steaks) can be found at The Whaling Company over at 494 McLaws Cir, Williamsburg, VA 23185. Designed to resemble a New England boathouse, it’s also got a fun vibe to go along with its delicious fare. Visitors sing praises about the exquisite shrimp cocktail and the crab legs at this unique and locally owned and operated boathouse.
Williamsburg Seafood Restaurants: 10Best Restaurant Reviews
For over 20 years, this restaurant has kept customers coming back for more. The wide selection of seafood can be prepared just about any way you want it, and the suggestion of mixing items does not make the servers cranky. The fish and shellfish options are plentiful, and the meals come with satisfying side dishes.
Williamsburg Area Restaurant Critics - HELP!
www.thewhalingcompany.com You can find it at this website or it is located less than a mile from BGE in the Kingsmill area. I have never had a bad meal there or bad service. Beware the prices are a bit high in comparison to other restaurants, but it is semi-kid friendly and has a nice atmosphere.
Kids Eat Free Williamsburg
Multifaceted role combines marketing, sales, event planning, communications and digital management to support the mission and growth of Williamsburg Families, The Burg Weekender, The Burg Weekly and Localourist.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit