The Cape May Big One 3 Hour Whale, Dolphin & Bird Trip Departing Wildwood Crest | Boat Tour in Wildwood, New Jersey | Boat Tour | Whale Watch

Read the full experience

Join us for The Cape May Big One 3 Hour Whale, Dolphin & Bird Trip departing Wildwood Crest—the perfect family-friendly adventure that combines wildlife viewing with the thrill of being on the water. This exclusive trip offered by Starlight Fleet takes you out into the Atlantic Ocean where you can experience the awe of spotting majestic whales, playful dolphins, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat. What makes this excursion truly special is its intimate private setting, allowing for personalized attention and up-close encounters with marine life. Whether you're an avid birdwatcher or simply looking for an unforgettable outdoor experience, this tour offers exceptional opportunities for viewing the Atlantic's rich diversity. The friendly crew shares informative insights about the species you'll encounter, making it both entertaining and educational. Perfect for families, couples, or groups seeking adventure, this trip adds a memorable highlight to any coastal getaway in Wildwood. Capture stunning photos of whales breaching, dolphins riding the bow, and seabirds soaring overhead, all from the comfort of a state-of-the-art vessel. Prepare for a day of exploration and discovery on the beautiful New Jersey coast, and create lifelong memories with this exciting wildlife cruise.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels; walking onboard is minimal but good balance is beneficial for stability

Frequently asked questions

Are children welcome on this wildlife tour?

Yes, the trip is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages with adult supervision.

What is the best time of day for wildlife sightings?

Early morning trips often provide the best chances for viewing whales and active wildlife.

Is the trip suitable for people with seasickness?

Most passengers do fine, but if you're prone to seasickness, consider taking motion sickness remedies beforehand.

How many people will be on the boat?

This is a private tour with limited groups to ensure a personalized experience, usually accommodating small groups.

What should I bring on the trip?

Bring sunscreen, binoculars, hats, water, and any personal medications you may need.

Are food and drinks provided?

Refreshments are usually not included, so consider bringing your own snacks and drinks for the trip.

Local insights

Wildlife

Humpback whales
Common dolphins

History

Wildwood and Cape May have long histories as key maritime communities, with lighthouse and fishing traditions dating back over a century.

Conservation

The Starlight Fleet emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including waste reduction and respectful wildlife viewing to minimize environmental impact.

About Starlight Fleet

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.

Base locationWildwood, New Jersey

Tours offered15+

Specialtywildlife-nature

Adventure tips

Arrive early for the best viewing spotsGetting to the dock 30 minutes before departure ensures you find the best seats and maximize wildlife sightings.

Dress in layers and bring sunscreenWeather on the water can change quickly; wearing layers and applying sun protection keeps you comfortable throughout the trip.

Bring binoculars for closer wildlife viewsEnhance your viewing experience by bringing binoculars to see distant whales and birds more clearly.

Watch the weather forecastCheck the weather before your trip and be prepared for possible choppy seas or rain that could affect visibility.

Recommended gear

Binoculars: Helps you see distant whales and birds more clearly during the tour.
Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun during the outdoor boat trip.
Hat and sunglasses: Shield your face and eyes from sun glare while observing wildlife.
Warm Jacket: Stay comfortable in cooler weather experienced in colder seasons.