3-Hour Whale, Dolphin, and Bird Cruise in Cape May
Spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds on a marine biologist–led, science-focused cruise
From$46/ person
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Discover what we've curated for you
Spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds on a marine biologist–led, science-focused cruise
Discover what we've curated for you
3 Hours
Marine biologist, Touch tank
Cruise from Cape May in search of dolphins, baleen whales, and seabirds aboard the American Star. Learn from an onboard marine biologist and explore a hands-on touch tank during this 3-hour trip 3–15 miles offshore.
Trips sail rain or shine; the captain may cancel for severe weather. Standard manual wheelchairs can be lifted onboard; power wheelchairs cannot. Outside food is allowed but no coolers or outside alcohol; the vessel is nonsmoking and leashed dogs are welcome.
Q: Is there parking available onsite?
A: Yes, free parking is available in the designated Whale Watch parking lot.
Q: Are there bathrooms on the boat?
A: Yes, there are 4 restrooms onboard.
Q: Are there food and drinks onboard?
A: Yes, there is a full galley, bar, and gift shop accepting cash or credit card.
Q: When is the best time to see whales and dolphins?
A: Dolphins are sighted daily March–December about 98% of the time. Whales migrate year-round and are sighted about 68% on average.
Q: Can I take a stroller onboard?
A: Yes, strollers are welcome.
Q: How far from the coast will the boat go?
A: Typically 3–15 miles from the Cape May shoreline, depending on conditions and sightings.
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 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