Set sail along the beautiful Delaware Bay with Bayshore Center’s Public Sail in Cape May. Enjoy stunning coastal views, learn about sailing, and spot local wildlife on this easy and relaxing adventure.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion is required as the crew manages sailing tasks.
Wildlife
History
Cape May’s maritime history dates back to the 18th century, playing a key role in regional trade and coastal defense.
Conservation
Bayshore Center actively promotes sustainable boating practices and educates visitors on protecting Delaware Bay’s marine habitats.
Bayshore Center
Set sail along the beautiful Delaware Bay with Bayshore Center’s Public Sail in Cape May. Enjoy stunning coastal views, learn about sailing, and spot local wildlife on this easy and relaxing adventure.
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.
Dress in Layers
Even summer days can get breezy out on the water, so bring layers to stay comfortable.
Wear Non-Slip Shoes
Decks can be slippery; shoes with good grip help keep you steady on board.
Bring Sunscreen
Protect your skin from reflection and direct sun exposure during the sail.
Arrive Early for Check-in
Give yourself extra time for check-in and safety briefing before departure.
Windbreaker or Light Jacket
Protects against the cool, variable spring breezes on the water.
spring
Sunscreen
Necessary to prevent sunburn from direct and reflected sunlight while sailing.
summer
Warm Hat and Gloves
Helps keep you warm during cooler autumn evening sails.
fall
Sturdy Non-Slip Shoes
Ensures safe footing on wet and slippery boat decks.