Set out from Wildwood Crest for a 10-hour deep-sea fishing trip with Starlight Fleet. Catch seabass, porgies, and blues aboard a family-operated charter steeped in tradition since 1976.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to stand for hours and handle fishing gear.
Wildlife
History
The Starlight Fleet has been operating since 1976 and is deeply connected to Captain Jim Cicchitti’s fishing legacy in Wildwood Crest.
Conservation
The fleet practices sustainable fishing by adhering to local catch limits and promoting catch-and-release when applicable.
Starlight Fleet
Set out from Wildwood Crest for a 10-hour deep-sea fishing trip with Starlight Fleet. Catch seabass, porgies, and blues aboard a family-operated charter steeped in tradition since 1976.
Starlight Fleet is a family-run maritime outfitter based in Wildwood Crest, New Jersey. Founded in 1976 by Captain Jim Cicchitti, the fleet operates six unique vessels that offer pirate cruises, dolphin and whale watching, and a range of deep-sea fishing trips.
The fleet's experiences include the Dark Star pirate cruise aboard a 50-foot ship, educational dolphin and bird watches led by a marine biologist on the Atlantic Star, and multiple deep-sea fishing options aboard the Starlight 101, the 100-foot Starlight, the Southern Star, and other fleet vessels. Trips range from two-hour wildlife tours to eight- and twelve-hour offshore fishing expeditions, and specialty trips such as seabass, fluke, and blackfish outings. The fleet emphasizes family-friendly entertainment, hands-on learning with onboard touch tanks, and experienced crew guidance for anglers of all skill levels. Equipment and vessel descriptions are provided for each trip so guests can choose the right experience, from intimate 32-foot boats to spacious 100-foot ships. Starlight Fleet's long-running operation and multi-generational leadership provide a consistent, local presence on Cape May and the Wildwoods shoreline. Safety procedures, knowledgeable captains, and crew support are part of the service offering. Booking information, schedules, and specific departure locations are published by the operator for each trip, allowing visitors to select the excursion that best fits their plans. Public schedules vary by season, and trip durations, departure points, and pricing are listed for each offering on the operator's official booking pages and websites.
Established
1976
Multi‑generational family operation
Fleet Size
6 vessels
Six unique boats for varied trips
Home Port
Wildwood Crest, NJ
Departures from Cape May area
Tours Offered
11 trips & cruises
Pirate, wildlife, and fishing options
Choose pirate cruises, dolphin & bird watches, or half‑ to full‑day deep‑sea fishing trips — departures and durations listed per trip.
Book in Advance
Secure your spot early, especially on weekends and holidays, to guarantee availability on this popular 10-hour fishing trip.
Dress in Layers
Ocean temperatures and wind can change throughout the day, so wear layered clothing to stay comfortable.
Bring Motion Sickness Remedies
The open ocean can be rough; pack seasickness medication or ginger to prevent discomfort.
Use Sunscreen and Protective Gear
Apply waterproof sunscreen and bring sunglasses and a hat to shield yourself from prolonged sun exposure.
Layered Clothing
Helps adapt to changing temperatures and wind conditions on the water.
Seasickness Medication
Useful to prevent nausea when the ocean is rough.
Polarized Sunglasses
Reduces glare off the water and protects eyes from UV rays.
summer
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protects skin during long exposure to sun and saltwater spray.
summer