Cruise Cape May at sunset to spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins with a marine biologist guide.
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2 hrs
Pizza & hot dogs, Guide
Sail into sunset aboard the American Star on a 2-hour cruise around Cape May while watching for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. A marine biologist shares insights and local history, and you enjoy complimentary pizza and hot dogs.
Trips sail rain or shine; the captain may cancel in severe weather. Outside alcoholic beverages and coolers are not permitted. Standard manual wheelchairs may be lifted aboard; power wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.
Q: Is there parking available onsite?
A: Yes, free parking is available in the designated Whale Watch lot with an attendant
Q: Are there bathrooms on the boat?
A: Yes, there are 4 restrooms onboard
Q: When is the best time to see dolphins?
A: Dolphins are sighted daily from March to December about 98% of the time
Q: Will I get seasick?
A: The 100 ft vessel is very stable, but consider precautions if you are susceptible
Q: Is the cruise dog friendly?
A: Yes, well-behaved leashed dogs are welcome
Q: Can I smoke onboard?
A: No, the vessel is nonsmoking
Q: How far from the coast will the boat go?
A: Typically within 1 mile of the shoreline, depending on conditions and wildlife
Tickets are nonrefundable. You may reschedule with at least 48 hours’ notice. Trips sail rain or shine; if the captain cancels for severe weather, you may reschedule, receive a full-value gift card, or a refund minus 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