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.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
12 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in average physical condition, comfortable standing or sitting for extended periods, and able to safely navigate steps on and off the boat.
Wildlife
History
Cape May is one of the oldest resort towns in America, with a history of maritime and naturalist activity dating back to the 18th century.
Conservation
The operators promote sustainable wildlife viewing by adhering to strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to marine mammals and bird populations.
Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center
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.
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.
Dress in layers for temperature changes
Temperatures can drop significantly at night offshore, so bring warm layers to stay comfortable during the early morning hours.
Bring seasickness remedies
Although the American Star is stable, ocean conditions vary, so pack motion sickness aids if you're prone to seasickness.
Charge your camera batteries and bring extra memory
The chumming attracts pelagic birds for excellent photo opportunities, so be ready to capture rare wildlife moments.
Pack a sleeping bag or blanket
Sleeping arrangements are basic with padded benches and floor space; a sleeping bag ensures a restful overnight experience.
Warm layered clothing
Mandatory for dealing with cooler overnight ocean temperatures and changing weather.
Motion sickness medication or bands
Useful for preventing seasickness in offshore conditions.
Camera with zoom lens
Essential to capture distant marine mammals and seabirds during the trip.
Sleeping bag or travel blanket
Provides comfort for resting on padded benches during the overnight journey.