Spot bottlenose dolphins and coastal birds on a guided 2-hour cruise with marine biologists
2 Hours
Guided cruise, Drinks & pastries
Cruise around Cape May on a 2-hour dolphin and bird watch. Learn from onboard marine biologists while enjoying complimentary drinks and pastries.
Arrive 30 minutes before departure. Trips sail rain or shine; the captain may cancel for severe weather. No coolers or outside alcohol; power wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.
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.
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, a full galley, bar, and gift shop are onboard and accept cash or credit card.
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.
If you are searching for the best whale watching tours in Cape May, look no further than The Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center. They should genuinely be everyone's #1 choice for whale and dolphin watching in Cape May! My family has been on numerous trips with them over the years, and they never disappoint. The entire crew and expert naturalists always go above and beyond to ensure all guests have a fun, educational, and safe experience on the water. Every single marine mammal sighting is handled with the utmost respect for wildlife, and their knowledge of the local marine ecosystem is unmatched. If you want a top-tier Cape May boat tour that offers incredible wildlife encounters, great hospitality, and excellent value, this is it. We wouldn't go anywhere else! Highly recommend!
Bryan Drew
July 6, 2026
If you are searching for the best whale watching tours in Cape May, look no further than The Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center. They should genuinely be everyone's #1 choice for whale and dolphin watching in Cape May! My family has been on numerous trips with them over the years, and they never disappoint. The entire crew and expert naturalists always go above and beyond to ensure all guests have a fun, educational, and safe experience on the water. Every single marine mammal sighting is handled with the utmost respect for wildlife, and their knowledge of the local marine ecosystem is unmatched. If you want a top-tier Cape May boat tour that offers incredible wildlife encounters, great hospitality, and excellent value, this is it. We wouldn't go anywhere else! Highly recommend!
Bryan Drew
July 6, 2026
Cruise Cape May at sunset to spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins with a marine biologist guide.
Spot whales, dolphins, and seabirds on a marine biologist–led, science-focused cruise
Private harbor cruising with your music, drinks, and room to celebrate
Celebrate on Cape May Harbor with your favorite people

Cruise Wildwood's back bays on a private double-decker pontoon with a waterslide
Bring your crew for a 21+ DJ day party with deck effects and drinking games