Cruise Cape May’s coast and watch July 3–4 fireworks from the water
2.5 Hours
Fireworks, pizza, hot dogs
Set out on the American Star for a 2.5-hour Independence Day cruise along the Cape May coastline, ending with a fireworks display over open water. Enjoy complimentary pizza and hot dogs while a marine biologist and naturalist shares a science-based look at the area.
No coolers or outside alcoholic beverages are permitted onboard. Standard manual wheelchairs may be lifted onboard; power wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.
Tickets are nonrefundable. You can reschedule to another trip with at least 48 hours notice. Trips sail rain or shine. If the Captain cancels due to severe weather, you can reschedule or receive a refund less processing fees.
Yes. You can bring outside food and non-alcoholic beverages onboard, but you cannot bring coolers or outside alcoholic beverages.
Yes. Free onsite parking is available in the designated Whale Watch parking lot, and an attendant will guide you.
Yes. The American Star has 4 restrooms onboard.
Cape May, NJ
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
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