Mass Bay Lines runs several types of trips and water shuttles that run from 60 Rowes Wharf in Boston, which is located behind the Boston Harbor Hotel. 

 The whale watch is a 4 hour excursion - approximately 1 1/2 hours to the shoal, 1 hour whale-watching, 1 1/2 hours back to Boston.  The ship is large, with two levels.  Both levels contain a spacious, fully-enclosed area with booths and chairs, with windows all around.  The upper level has ouside areas at the front and back, from which you can clearly see the whales.

 There is a naturalist on board who stands on the roof with a microphone and describes the whales for the guests, including, when possible, the identity of the whale (from the pattern on its fluke).

 There is food available during the trip - hot dogs, "pizza bagels", cookies, etc. - and both soda and alcoholic beverages.