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
From$150/ person
Search all experiences
Discover what we've curated for you
Head 40–60 miles offshore with expert naturalists to spot whales, dolphins, and pelagic birds in comfort
Discover what we've curated for you
12 Hours
Boat cruise, Naturalist guides
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.
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.
Q: Is there parking available onsite?
A: Yes, free parking is available onsite in the designated Whale Watch parking lot, with an attendant to guide you.
Q: Are there bathrooms on the boat?
A: Yes, the American Star has 4 restrooms onboard.
Q: Are there food/drinks available onboard?
A: Yes, there is a full galley, bar, and gift shop that accept cash or credit; for this extended trip consider bringing what you need.
Q: Do I need to wear a life-jacket onboard?
A: No. Life-jackets are for emergency use only. The United States Coast Guard inspects safety equipment annually and the captain gives a safety briefing at departure.
Q: Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
A: Depending on tide, there may be steps to board. Standard manual wheelchairs can be lifted onboard; power wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.
Q: Will I get seasick on this cruise?
A: The vessel is 100 ft and very stable. If you are susceptible, consider Dramamine, Bonine, or Sea Bands, available at the dock.
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.
1231 Rt 109 (South Jersey Marina) Cape May, NJ US 08204
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.
A wonderful two-hour boat cruise along Cape May. Unfortunately, we didn't see any whales, but we thoroughly enjoyed the pod of dolphins frolicking along the shore. The boat is comfortable, with seating both outdoors and in an enclosed cabin. The bar is reasonably priced, and there are restrooms.
Maxim A
November 17, 2025
A wonderful two-hour boat cruise along Cape May. Unfortunately, we didn't see any whales, but we thoroughly enjoyed the pod of dolphins frolicking along the shore. The boat is comfortable, with seating both outdoors and in an enclosed cabin. The bar is reasonably priced, and there are restrooms.
Maxim A
November 17, 2025