Join Bayshore Center for a unique Family Environmental Education Sail in Cape May that combines fun, learning, and gorgeous waterfront views. Perfect for families eager to explore and protect the natural world.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, including children; minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
Cape May has long been a critical stopover for migratory birds and holds a rich maritime history dating back to the 17th century.
Conservation
The Bayshore Center promotes coastal habitat preservation and teaches sustainable practices to ensure the health of Delaware Bay ecosystems.
Bayshore Center
Join Bayshore Center for a unique Family Environmental Education Sail in Cape May that combines fun, learning, and gorgeous waterfront views. Perfect for families eager to explore and protect the natural world.
Bayshore Center at Bivalve, located in Commercial Township, New Jersey, connects visitors with the Delaware Bay’s maritime history, coastal ecosystems, and hands‑on education programs. The center operates a range of public sails, community fundraisers, evening education events, and youth camps that emphasize conservation and experiential learning. Camp programs — branded as Bayshore Discovery Camp — invite students in grades 4–6 to participate in dockside science, nature walks, habitat restoration, wildlife tracking, model‑building, and conservation projects that reinforce stewardship.
Public sails aboard the AJ Meerwald, a 115′ oyster schooner built in 1928, offer two‑hour excursions from ports including Trenton, Cape May, and Philadelphia. Sail passengers may assist the crew or relax while bringing their own food and drinks. The Delaware Bayshore Boat Ride cruises the Maurice River to the Delaware Bay for views of the East Point Lighthouse, with proceeds benefitting the Bayshore Center at Bivalve.
Community events include the Spirit of the Sail fundraiser at Mission Spirits and Suds and Science evenings at AJ’s Pub, where education partners present regional conservation work. These programs blend storytelling, maritime tradition, and environmental research to engage local residents and visitors. The center’s mixed offering of educational camps, historic-vessel sails, and community fundraisers supports public awareness of the Bayshore’s natural and cultural resources while providing accessible outdoor experiences for families and learners.
Programming often emphasizes hands-on science, citizen science participation, and partnerships with local researchers, creating measurable conservation outcomes and fostering lifelong interest in maritime ecology among young learners and adult volunteers and educators.
Location
Commercial Township, NJ
On the Maurice River and Delaware Bay
Experiences
11 Experiences
Sailing, camps, fundraisers, boat rides
Historic Vessel
AJ Meerwald (1928)
115′ oyster schooner used for public sails
Youth Camps
4 Camp Weeks
Discovery camp for grades 4–6
Secure a spot for a public sail, summer camp week, or community event and experience the Delaware Bayshore up close — perfect for families, youth, and maritime enthusiasts.
Bring Sunscreen and Hats
Protect your skin from sun exposure during the open-water sail by applying sunscreen and wearing hats.
Wear Comfortable, Non-Slip Shoes
Footwear with good grip is important for safe movement on the boat deck.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the trip as direct sun and wind can dehydrate.
Arrive Early for Check-in
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to familiarize yourself with safety procedures and prepare for boarding.
Lightweight Windbreaker
Protects against cool spring breezes on the water.
spring
Sunscreen
Essential for skin protection during long exposure to sun and water reflection.
summer
Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated during the sail.
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife and birdwatching experience from the boat.