Explore Cape May’s vibrant marine ecosystem on this 3-hour cruise aboard the American Star, where dolphins, whales, and seabirds come alive with expert naturalists guiding the journey. Discover why this experience ranks as a top wildlife adventure on the Jersey Shore.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; participants should be able to comfortably stand and walk on deck during the cruise
Wildlife
History
Cape May is one of the oldest seaside resorts in the U.S., with a rich maritime and conservation heritage dating back to the 19th century.
Conservation
The cruise operators adhere to Whale SENSE standards promoting responsible marine mammal viewing that minimizes impact and supports ongoing research.
Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center
Explore Cape May’s vibrant marine ecosystem on this 3-hour cruise aboard the American Star, where dolphins, whales, and seabirds come alive with expert naturalists guiding the journey. Discover why this experience ranks as a top wildlife adventure on the Jersey Shore.
Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center operates guided marine wildlife cruises out of Cape May, New Jersey. The center conducts a variety of scheduled trips aboard the vessel American Star, offering short coastal dolphin watches, multi-hour pelagic birding expeditions, and extended overnight marine mammal and pelagic bird watches.
Each cruise is staffed by trained naturalists and marine biologists who provide educational narration about local wildlife, migration patterns, and marine ecosystems. Selected cruises include hands-on learning opportunities such as a touch-tank with live sea creatures and a Marine Mammal Guarantee on qualifying departures.
Vessel amenities on the American Star include a heated cabin and a full galley for comfort on longer trips. Special seasonal and holiday trips are part of the program, including themed outings like the Easter Brunch Dolphin Watch, Breakfast & Dolphin Watch with Santa, and a Fourth of July Fireworks Cruise. Shorter evening options such as the Sunset Dolphin Watch provide wildlife viewing combined with coastal sunset scenery.
Longer pelagic trips range from 6‑hour inshore pelagic cruises to 12‑ and 24‑hour offshore expeditions, conducted with expert naturalists and partnering organizations for enhanced birding and marine mammal observation. All offerings focus on safe, educational, and wildlife-centered experiences designed for families, birders, photographers, and anyone interested in ocean life.
Vessel
American Star
Heated cabin and full galley
Tours Offered
10 Trips
From 2‑hour to 24‑hour options
Expert Guides
Marine Biologists & Naturalists
Onboard scientists and naturalists
Marine Mammal Guarantee
Guarantee Offered
Some trips include sighting guarantee
Book dolphin watches, whale and pelagic bird trips now — limited space on specialty and extended pelagic departures.
Bring binoculars for closer views
A good pair of binoculars enhances spotting distant whales and seabirds during the cruise.
Dress in layers for changing weather
Mornings and offshore breezes can be cool; layers help you stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Use sunscreen even on cloudy days
UV rays reflect off the water and can be intense even without direct sunlight.
Arrive early for best parking
Free onsite parking is available but can fill up quickly before popular cruises.
Binoculars
Enhances distant wildlife viewing on the open ocean.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against wind and occasional sea spray during spring cruises.
spring
Layered clothing
Allows flexibility to adjust to changing weather conditions on deck.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays when out on the water under the sun.
summer