Journey 80–100 miles offshore with expert naturalists to find whales and pelagic birds
Naturalist guides, Restrooms
Head 80–100 miles offshore to the edge of the continental shelf aboard the American Star. Search with experienced naturalists for marine mammals, pelagic birds, and other ocean wildlife, with chumming to bring birds close for photography.
Trips sail only in favorable weather; the captain confirms 48 hours prior. Sleeping is on benches and floor space—bring a sleeping bag. Manual wheelchairs may be lifted aboard; power wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.
Tickets are nonrefundable. You may reschedule to another trip with at least 48 hours notice. Trips sail rain or shine. The captain may cancel due to severe weather; if cancelled, you may reschedule to another cruise or receive a refund, less processing fees.
Yes, free parking is available in the designated Whale Watch lot and an attendant will guide you.
Yes, the American Star is equipped with 4 restrooms onboard.
Yes, there is a full galley, bar, and gift shop that accepts cash or credit. For this extended trip, bring any food or drink you require.
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
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