Cape May Whale & Dolphin Cruises — Guided Wildlife Adventures

Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center — Whale Watching, Dolphin Cruises & Pelagic Birding

Discover marine life off Cape May, New Jersey with Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center. Operating aboard the American Star, the center offers a full schedule of guided wildlife cruises including dolphin watches, whale and birding trips, and extended pelagic expeditions. Whether searching for Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins on a 2-hour cruise or heading 80–100 miles offshore on a 24-hour marine mammal & pelagic bird watch, each trip is led by marine biologists and expert naturalists.

Popular cruises and what to expect

• Easter Brunch Dolphin Watch — A 2-hour brunch cruise aboard the American Star that combines coastal views, a continental brunch, and dolphin watching. Seasonal family features include the Easter Bunny and photo opportunities.
• Fireworks Cruise — A holiday evening cruise with onboard commentary by a marine biologist, complimentary pizza and hot dogs, and a shoreline fireworks finale.
• 2hr Dolphin & Bird Watch and 2hr Sunset Dolphin Watch — Short coastal outings focused on Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, birdlife, and sunset scenery with guided interpretation.
• 3hr Whale, Dolphin, & Bird Watch — A focused three-hour search for whales, dolphins, and pelagic birds with a hands-on touch-tank and a Marine Mammal Guarantee on qualifying trips.
• 6hr Mini Pelagic with Cape May Bird Observatory — An inshore pelagic exploring seabirds and marine mammals with heated cabin comfort and a full galley.
• 12hr and 24hr Marine Mammal & Pelagic Bird Watch — Extended offshore expeditions 40–100 miles into the Atlantic for pelagic birding and deep-water marine mammal opportunities, led by expert naturalists.
• Breakfast & Dolphin Watch with Santa — A seasonal holiday brunch cruise that pairs festive activities with wildlife viewing.

Why choose these cruises

• Guided by experts: Marine biologists and naturalists provide educational narration and species identification.
• Vessel comfort: The American Star features a heated cabin and full galley for longer trips.
• Range of trip lengths: Options from 2-hour family outings to overnight pelagic expeditions fit different interests and experience levels.
• Educational experiences: Select cruises include touch-tank interactions and guaranteed marine mammal sighting policies on qualifying departures.

Who will enjoy these trips

• Families seeking accessible wildlife experiences and seasonal holiday cruises.
• Birders and photographers focused on pelagic birds and marine mammals.
• Nature enthusiasts interested in guided interpretation from marine scientists and naturalists.

Practical details and booking tips

• Book early for specialty departures and extended pelagic trips — space is limited on longer voyages.
• Check specific trip descriptions for included amenities like complimentary refreshments, holiday features, and the presence of a Marine Mammal Guarantee.

Bold your next wildlife experience with Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center: reputable guided dolphin watches, whale and pelagic birding cruises launched from Cape May, New Jersey aboard the American Star. Choose the trip length and season that match wildlife patterns and personal comfort, and expect expert-led interpretation and hands-on learning opportunities on many departures.