Location: Provincetown, MA
Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch, located in Provincetown, Massachusetts, is now accepting applications for Seasonal Paid Interns for the 2026 whale watching season. This 10-week, paid internship runs from late May through August (dates flexible) and offers immersive, hands-on experience aboard an active whale watch vessel while working alongside our experienced crew and naturalist team.
This opportunity is open to college students, recent graduates, and anyone 18+ who enjoys working outdoors, thrives in a team environment, and has an interest in marine science, ocean conservation, and public education. Applicants with strong interpersonal skills, confidence speaking with the public, and strong organizational abilities are especially encouraged to apply.
Interns rotate through multiple onboard roles, gaining experience both on deck and in passenger education. The position averages 40 hours per week and includes weekdays, weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings. Workdays can be long and physically demanding, especially during peak season, and require adaptability, energy, and a positive attitude.
This internship may be a great fit if you:
Enjoy long, active days and working outdoors in varying weather
Are comfortable being on the water and aboard a moving vessel
Work well as part of a close-knit team
Enjoy interacting with the public and sharing information
Can stay organized and focused in a fast-paced environment
Are eager to learn from an experienced maritime and naturalist crew
Deckhand / Galley (approximately 2 days per week):
Operate and manage the onboard galley
Assist with passenger needs, safety, and overall guest experience
Support deck operations as needed
Maintain organization and cleanliness in a busy onboard setting
Naturalist Assistant (approximately 2 days per week):
Assist onboard naturalists with marine education and interpretation
Collect, record, and organize whale and marine mammal sighting data used in ongoing whale research efforts
Support behavioral observations and ensure data accuracy during trips
Engage with passengers and assist with public presentations
Optional: Assist with social media and digital outreach, such as capturing photos or short videos and sharing educational content
Develop public speaking, educational, organizational, and outreach skills while working closely with experienced naturalists
Additional duties may include general vessel support and teamwork across departments.
Must be 18 years or older
Comfortable working on the water in varying weather conditions
Able to work long days and maintain professionalism throughout shifts
Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
Interest in marine life, conservation, and education
Ability to work weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings
Must pass a mandatory drug test
Pay: $16.00 per hour
Paid, hands-on experience in whale watch operations
Training and mentorship from an experienced crew and naturalists
Direct participation in data collection supporting ongoing whale research
Experience in public education and optional outreach
A dynamic, outdoor work environment on the water
Housing is not provided; applicants must secure their own housingoì
Ready to join our team? Please submit the following:
Cover letter, including a brief statement of interest (1–2 paragraphs) explaining why you’re excited about this internship and what you hope to gain
CV
Two letters of recommendation (academic or professional references preferred)
Send all materials to: aspence@whalewatch.com
Use the subject line: “2026 Whale Watch Internship – [Your Name]”
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority review given to applications received within the first four weeks of posting.