Countdown to 2014 | 4. Some Amazing Sights of the New England Aquarium Whale Watch

We're blazing toward the New Year, so it's about time that we look back on the amazing year that was 2013. The Aquarium celebrated some unbelievable moments—some much touted and others quieter. But they're all part of what makes the Aquarium so special.

Today we're continuing the countdown of the 10 most exciting, cutest, noteworthy and/or memorable ways that 2013 is one year that we won't forget. 

4. A fantastic year for the New England Aquarium Whale Watch

Salt, the so-called Grand Dame of Stellwagen Bank, was definitely an exciting sighting

This is the first year of the Aquarium's partnership with Boston Harbor Cruises to give visitors a front row seat to see some of the largest and most impressive marine animals in their home turf—Stellwagen Bank. The New England Aquarium Whale Watch launched from Central Wharf and ferried passengers to this rich marine animal feeding ground just a few miles from Boston several times each day.

Nile, seen here flipper slapping with another humpback whale, was a regular on the Whale Watch Log

Some humpback whales made regular appearances, like Nile. Other whales were more elusive but their sightings were extra special for the knowledgable naturalists on board every trip. Along with humpbacks, minke and finback whales were spotted.

Few things are more exciting than a breach!

The whales wowed visitors with dramatic behaviors such as breaches and flipper slapping. All along the way, visitors learned a lot about these animals and the threats they face in the wild.

A curious harbor seal pup surveys the scene

The list of marine life doesn't end whales on a New England Aquarium Whale Watch. Seals, dolphins, sea birds and even those other-worldly fish Mola mola had a moment to shine on the Whale Watch Log.

Sunset on Stellwagen Bank

With three boats each running trips several times each day, it meant many people had an opportunity to hit the water this season. It's always wonderful to be able to share the beauty and majesty of our blue planet with visitors. While the season ended in November now that the whales have headed south to feed in warmer waters, we're already looking forward to March when the trip start up again!

Previously on the Countdown to 2014:

10. The goosefish and her egg veils

9. Three IMAX films in one year

8. Jaw-dropping slow motion video

7. Rescued fur seal pup arrives for the holidays

6. A victory for right whales
5. Little blue penguin chicks