Board the American Star from Cape May, New Jersey for dolphin watches, whale trips, and pelagic birding led by marine biologists and naturalists.
From 2-hour dolphin watches to overnight pelagics — family-friendly, educational outings aboard the American Star.
water-activities · Cape May
Celebrate Easter weekend in Cape May with a 2-hour brunch cruise aboard the American Star. Spot playful Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, enjoy a continental brunch, and meet the Easter Bunny for a festive coastal adventure.
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.
“Every outing is organized with local river knowledge, basic safety instruction, and equipment checks before departure.”
Heated cabin and full galley
From 2‑hour to 24‑hour options
Onboard scientists and naturalists
Some trips include sighting guarantee
Open the individual experience guide to confirm current availability, pricing, policies, conditions, and inclusions before booking.
The operator provides clear meeting points, departure times, and destination coordinates for all outings.
Personal flotation devices, emergency protocols, equipment checks, and paddling orientations are provided before departure.
Recommended layering, water shoes, sunscreen, and dry bags are detailed in each experience guide.
Guides share rich knowledge of regional flora, fauna, scenic landmarks, and river navigation.
A glimpse into the experiences, natural landscapes, and adventures waiting on your next trip.
Images supplied on the current Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center listing.
Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center offers a variety of guided outdoor excursions, scenic routes, rentals, and custom itineraries tailored for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts.
Yes. Most trips feature comprehensive safety orientations, equipment fittings, and calm routes suited for first-time adventurers. Check the details on individual experience guides for specific age and skill requirements.
Standard safety equipment (such as certified life vests and essential gear) is supplied for each booking. Detailed checklists regarding weather-appropriate attire and personal items are provided prior to departure.
Book dolphin watches, whale and pelagic bird trips now — limited space on specialty and extended pelagic departures.
boat-charters · Cape May
Celebrate Independence Day in Cape May aboard the American Star. Enjoy dolphin sightings, complimentary food, and a dazzling fireworks display over the Atlantic coastline.
water-activities · Cape May
Set sail from Cape May, NJ, on a 6-hour pelagic cruise that combines whale watching with expert-led seabird spotting. Discover humpbacks, dolphins, and rare pelagic birds in the Atlantic’s vibrant inshore waters.
wildlife-nature · Cape May
Venture 40-60 miles offshore from Cape May aboard the American Star for a 12-hour marine mammal and pelagic bird watch. Encounter whales, dolphins, seabirds, and oceanic wildlife on this unparalleled Atlantic adventure.
wildlife-nature · Cape May
Embark on a 24-hour offshore expedition from Cape May, NJ, to witness rare marine mammals and pelagic birds at the edge of the continental shelf. Experience a deep-sea wildlife adventure guided by expert naturalists aboard the spacious American Star.
water-activities · Cape May
Set sail from Cape May aboard the American Star for a 2-hour sunset cruise to see Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins in their natural habitat. Enjoy stunning coastal views, educational commentary, and complimentary snacks on this unique New Jersey adventure.
water-activities · Cape May
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.
water-activities · Cape May
Discover Cape May’s celebrated Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins on a 2-hour cruise that blends wildlife viewing with local history. Learn from onboard naturalists as you circle America’s Oldest Seaside Resort for an unmissable adventure.
water-activities · Cape May
Celebrate the season with a sunrise brunch cruise along Cape May, where dolphins play and Santa surprises. Discover this festive marine adventure designed for families and wildlife lovers.
Click into any experience card above to view current dates, live availability, transparent pricing, cancellation policies, and booking details.