Celebrate Independence Day in Cape May aboard the American Star. Enjoy dolphin sightings, complimentary food, and a dazzling fireworks display over the Atlantic coastline.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5 hours
Fitness Level
No special physical fitness required; suitable for all ages and mobility levels as there are minimal physical demands
Wildlife
History
Cape May is America's oldest seaside resort, with Victorian architecture dating back to the mid-19th century and a deep maritime heritage.
Conservation
The cruise operator supports local marine conservation efforts, educating guests about protecting dolphin habitats and minimizing environmental impact.
Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center
Celebrate Independence Day in Cape May aboard the American Star. Enjoy dolphin sightings, complimentary food, and a dazzling fireworks display over the Atlantic coastline.
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.
Reserve Early
This popular cruise often sells out, especially on holidays; book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.
Dress for Variable Weather
Bring layers or a light rain poncho as the boat offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, but coastal weather can change rapidly.
Prepare for Motion
The American Star is stable but if you're prone to seasickness, consider taking medication before boarding.
Arrive Early for Parking
Free designated parking is available onsite; attendants will guide you to spots to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Layered Clothing
Coastal evenings can be cool or breezy, so layers keep you comfortable on deck.
summer
Motion Sickness Medication
Useful for guests prone to seasickness during ocean cruises.
summer
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat protect you during daylight portions of the cruise.
summer
Light Rain Poncho
Provided onboard but having your own poncho is helpful if the weather turns wet.
summer