Adventure Brief
Board the Starlight 101 for a 4-hour deep sea fishing trip from Hillsboro Inlet, Florida. Enjoy expert guidance and the chance to catch a variety of species in Atlantic waters.
4 hours
moderate
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Board the Starlight 101 for a 4-hour deep sea fishing trip from Hillsboro Inlet, Florida. Enjoy expert guidance and the chance to catch a variety of species in Atlantic waters.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required to handle fishing gear and stand during the trip
Wildlife
History
Hillsboro Inlet has long been a key access point for floridian fisheries dating back to early 20th century local communities.
Conservation
Operators promote catch-and-release practices and follow regulations to protect local fish populations and ocean health.
Starlight Fleet
Board the Starlight 101 for a 4-hour deep sea fishing trip from Hillsboro Inlet, Florida. Enjoy expert guidance and the chance to catch a variety of species in Atlantic waters.
Starlight Fleet is a family-run maritime outfitter based in Wildwood Crest, New Jersey. Founded in 1976 by Captain Jim Cicchitti, the fleet operates six unique vessels that offer pirate cruises, dolphin and whale watching, and a range of deep-sea fishing trips.
The fleet's experiences include the Dark Star pirate cruise aboard a 50-foot ship, educational dolphin and bird watches led by a marine biologist on the Atlantic Star, and multiple deep-sea fishing options aboard the Starlight 101, the 100-foot Starlight, the Southern Star, and other fleet vessels. Trips range from two-hour wildlife tours to eight- and twelve-hour offshore fishing expeditions, and specialty trips such as seabass, fluke, and blackfish outings. The fleet emphasizes family-friendly entertainment, hands-on learning with onboard touch tanks, and experienced crew guidance for anglers of all skill levels. Equipment and vessel descriptions are provided for each trip so guests can choose the right experience, from intimate 32-foot boats to spacious 100-foot ships. Starlight Fleet's long-running operation and multi-generational leadership provide a consistent, local presence on Cape May and the Wildwoods shoreline. Safety procedures, knowledgeable captains, and crew support are part of the service offering. Booking information, schedules, and specific departure locations are published by the operator for each trip, allowing visitors to select the excursion that best fits their plans. Public schedules vary by season, and trip durations, departure points, and pricing are listed for each offering on the operator's official booking pages and websites.
Established
1976
Multi‑generational family operation
Fleet Size
6 vessels
Six unique boats for varied trips
Home Port
Wildwood Crest, NJ
Departures from Cape May area
Tours Offered
11 trips & cruises
Pirate, wildlife, and fishing options
Choose pirate cruises, dolphin & bird watches, or half‑ to full‑day deep‑sea fishing trips — departures and durations listed per trip.
Bring sunscreen and hydration
The sun can be intense offshore; use SPF and drink plenty of water to stay comfortable.
Wear non-slip shoes
Boat decks can be wet and slippery—choose footwear with good traction for safety.
Listen closely to the crew’s advice
Following expert guidance improves your chances of a successful fishing trip.
Secure loose items
Keep personal belongings secured to prevent loss or accidents during the ride.
Sun hat
Protects your face and neck during prolonged sun exposure on the water.
summer
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare from the water surface to enhance visibility while fishing.
summer
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Useful for sudden ocean sprays or mild rain during trips.
spring
Fishing gloves
Protects hands when handling lines and fish, improving grip and comfort.