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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Cape May…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Whale Watching
    5. /12-Hour Offshore Marine Mammal and Pelagic Bird Watch
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    12-Hour Offshore Marine Mammal and Pelagic Bird Watch

    Head 40–60 miles offshore with expert naturalists to spot whales, dolphins, and pelagic birds in comfort

    4.7 stars• 745 reviews

    Duration

    12 Hours

    Includes

    Boat cruise, Naturalist guides

    Highlights

    Venture 40–60 miles offshore aboard the American Star to search for whales, dolphins, pelagic birds, and more. Travel with expert naturalists and enjoy a heated cabin as you chum for birds to bring them close for photos.

    1. Travel 40–60 miles into offshore Atlantic waters
    2. Learn from marine mammal and pelagic bird naturalists
    3. Chum for pelagic birds for close photo opportunities
    4. Ride aboard the 100 ft American Star vessel
    5. Relax in a heated indoor cabin and shaded deck areas
    6. Find food, drinks, and a gift shop onboard

    What's Included

    1. Cruise aboard the American Star
    2. Marine mammal and pelagic bird naturalists
    3. Heated indoor cabin access

    Things to know

    Trips operate only in favorable weather; the captain decides 48 hours before departure. Standard manual wheelchairs may be lifted aboard depending on tide; power wheelchairs cannot be accommodated. If you are susceptible to motion sickness, consider taking precautions.

    Cancellation Policy

    Tickets are nonrefundable. You may reschedule with at least 48 hours' notice. Trips sail rain or shine. If the captain cancels due to severe weather, you may reschedule or receive a refund less processing fees.

    Product ID: EAS84F

    FAQs

    Yes, free parking is available onsite in the designated Whale Watch parking lot, with an attendant to guide you.

    Yes, the American Star has 4 restrooms onboard.

    Yes, there is a full galley, bar, and gift shop that accept cash or credit; for this extended trip consider bringing what you need.

    Meeting details

    1231 Rt 109 (South Jersey Marina) Cape May, NJ US 08204

    Experience provided by Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center

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    Report an issue

    Adult

    $159

    Ages 13+

    0

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    Review summary

    4.7
    Excellent
    745 reviews•Google Maps
    562
    49
    12
    7
    26

    The crew here consistently earns praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm, with naturalists like Garret, Conner, and Tom Reed providing educational commentary throughout trips. The boat itself gets high marks for comfort, featuring both indoor and outdoor seating, reasonably priced food and drinks, and onsite parking. Guests appreciate the educational focus, with staff conducting sessions for kids and even sharing eBird lists for birders on the longer pelagic excursions. Wildlife sightings vary by season and luck, but the company handles this honestly. Dolphins appear frequently, especially during summer sunset cruises, while whale encounters are less predictable. Several reviewers mentioned not seeing whales but still thoroughly enjoying the experience thanks to the crew's expertise and the beautiful coastal scenery. The operation offers free return tickets when marine life is particularly scarce, which guests find generous. Trip options range from standard two-hour cruises to ambitious 12 and 24-hour pelagic adventures for serious birders and wildlife enthusiasts, giving you flexibility based on your interest level and schedule.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 4
    5/5

    The sunset cruise was an amazing experience! The crew was friendly and informative! We saw great sites of the island and beautiful landscape views. Also, so many Dolphins! Hailey was extremely friendly and helpful. Dan and Tiffany were great bartenders. 10/10 would recommend!

    Photo of Loretta Freda

    Loretta Freda

    August 31, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    The sunset cruise was an amazing experience! The crew was friendly and informative! We saw great sites of the island and beautiful landscape views. Also, so many Dolphins! Hailey was extremely friendly and helpful. Dan and Tiffany were great bartenders. 10/10 would recommend!

    Photo of Loretta Freda

    Loretta Freda

    August 31, 2026

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