Is parking available at the departure point?

Yes, free parking is available onsite in the designated Whale Watch parking lot with attendants to assist.

Are there restrooms on the American Star?

The vessel has four onboard restrooms, ensuring comfort throughout the day.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Standard manual wheelchairs can be lifted onboard depending on the tide, but power wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.

Do I need to wear a life jacket?

Life jackets are provided for emergency use only; the boat meets all safety standards and procedures.

Can I bring food and drinks?

While the boat has a galley and bar, it’s recommended to bring your own food and drinks for this extended trip.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Potential sightings include humpback and fin whales, dolphins, pelagic seabirds, sea turtles, oceanic sunfish, and sharks.

Discover Offshore Wonders: 12-Hour Marine Mammal & Pelagic Bird Watch from Cape May

Set sail from Cape May, New Jersey, and embark on a full-day expedition into the vast Atlantic Ocean aboard the American Star, a specially equipped 100-foot vessel designed for marine wildlife tours. This 12-hour Marine Mammal & Pelagic Bird Watch offers an extraordinary window into the offshore ecosystem, reaching 40-60 miles out where land fades and the ocean teems with life few get to witness firsthand.

Cape May itself is a renowned coastal town located at New Jersey’s southern tip, known historically as a prime location for birdwatching and whale sightings. The Atlantic waters here act as a migratory corridor, making it a hotspot for observing an impressive variety of marine species. Unlike shorter trips closer to shore, this extended voyage ventures deep into pelagic territory, where unique oceanic species and seabirds gather.

The highlight of the journey is the chance to encounter several species of whales, including Humpbacks, Fin, Minke, and the rare Right Whale, alongside pods of Bottlenose, Common, and Risso’s Dolphins. The expert naturalist team onboard combines deep marine biology knowledge with a passion for wildlife conservation, offering engaging commentary that brings each sighting to life. Bird enthusiasts will appreciate pelagic species such as Shearwaters, Northern Gannets, Jaegers, and seasonal rarities like Puffins and Razor Bills. The crew strategically uses chum to attract birds, creating exceptional photographic opportunities.

Beyond mammals and birds, travelers might spot oceanic sunfish, sea turtles like Loggerhead and Leatherback, and even elusive sharks including Thresher and Hammerhead. The American Star meets comfort needs with a heated indoor cabin and multiple shaded deck areas, balancing exposure to fresh ocean air with shelter from the elements. Restroom facilities, a full galley, and a bar are also onboard, though bringing personal snacks is advised given the trip length.

This trip stands out in the New Jersey coastal adventure scene for its dedication to immersive, educational wildlife viewing far offshore, distinguishing itself from typical whale watches closer to the shore. It offers a rare chance to connect deeply with the Atlantic’s pelagic realms while supporting conservation through responsible ecotourism.

If you’re planning to stay in Cape May for an unparalleled day at sea filled with marine marvels, this long-haul voyage is tailor-made for wildlife lovers, photographers, and anyone fascinated by the ocean’s wild inhabitants. Weather permitting, this excursion provides a fulfilling blend of natural spectacle, expert guidance, and comfortable cruising aboard one of the area’s premier marine wildlife vessels.