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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.
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.
Book with Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center
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Operated by Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center · Cape May, New Jersey
Venture far beyond the familiar coastline of Cape May, New Jersey, on a truly unique 24-hour marine mammal and pelagic bird watching expedition that takes you well offshore into the deep Atlantic waters. Departing in the evening aboard the American Star, a custom-built 100-foot vessel designed for sightseeing, this immersive journey explores the edge of the continental shelf over 80 to 100 miles from shore, where the ocean reaches depths of 6,000 feet. Here, the ocean's vastness reveals some of the continent’s most elusive marine life and extraordinary seabirds, all under the guidance of expert naturalists specializing in marine mammals and pelagic birds.
This trip is more than a typical whale watch. It’s a marathon scouting expedition covering a remote, nutrient-rich marine environment known for its biodiversity. As waves lap against the hull and the night gives way to first light, the boat’s crew chum to attract pelagic birds, creating rare photo opportunities for avid birdwatchers and photographers. Expect to see an impressive lineup of whales, including humpbacks, fin, minkes, right whales, and elusive beaked whales, in addition to playful dolphins such as bottlenose, common, and Atlantic white-sided species. The spectacle extends beyond mammals—watch for shearwaters, northern gannets, jaegers, and petrels, among others.
Adding to the excitement, the open ocean is also home to other remarkable marine species. Shark enthusiasts might catch sight of hammerhead, thresher, and, on occasion, great white sharks. Sea turtles like loggerheads and leatherbacks drift through the area, alongside oceanic sunfish and flashing flying fish, exposing visitors to an extraordinary circle of life rarely witnessed from land.
What sets this tour apart is not only the destination but also the expertise of its crew. Marine mammal researchers and pelagic bird naturalists onboard share their knowledge and passion, enriching the experience. The American Star provides ample indoor and outdoor seating, bathroom facilities, and a full galley and bar, though passengers are advised to bring personal snacks for this day-into-night adventure. Sleeping arrangements are cozy but practical with padded benches and floor space available—bringing a sleeping bag is highly recommended.
Cape May’s location at the southern tip of New Jersey makes it a strategic gateway to these offshore wonders. The town offers travelers charming accommodations, making it a perfect base before or after this epic voyage. With free parking provided and a comfortable captain’s safety briefing, the expedition is accessible and well-prepared, though sailing depends on favorable weather.
For wildlife lovers, photographers, and those eager to push their adventure into rare territories, this 24-hour cruising experience offers an unforgettable way to connect with New Jersey’s wild Atlantic realm beyond the shoreline.
Yes, free parking is available onsite in the designated Whale Watch parking lot with an attendant to assist.
The American Star has four restrooms to ensure passenger comfort during the trip.
There is a full galley, bar, and gift shop onboard accepting cash or credit, but passengers are advised to bring their own provisions for the lengthy trip.
Access depends on tide; manual wheelchairs can be lifted onboard, but power wheelchairs are not accommodated due to weight and boat design.
Life jackets are available for all passengers but are only worn in emergencies; a full safety briefing is conducted before departure.
The boat is very stable, but those prone to motion sickness should take preventative medication or use sea bands, available at the dock.
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.
Book with Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center