Cape May’s best boat excursions deliver memorable experiences right from New Jersey’s southern tip. The standout Osprey Tour, running 2.5 hours, practically guarantees wildlife sightings – it’s a consistently great value with stellar reviews. The Weekend Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise ranks as another top pick, offering reliable marine life encounters and professional naturalist insights. Evening tours, especially the dinner cruises, showcase Cape May’s spectacular coastline in golden light. I’m particularly fond of these coastal trips for their excellent passenger comfort and flexible booking terms. Let’s explore Cape May’s most worthwhile boat tours.
Key Points
- Osprey Tour, Wetlands Safari Cruise, and Dolphin and Bird Watching Cruise are highly recommended birdwatching and wildlife tours in Cape May.
- Cape May offers various dolphin and whale watching experiences, including the Cape May Dolphin Watching Cruise and Weekend Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise.
- Scenic and dinner cruises such as the Cape May Island Sunset Cruise and Sunset Dinner Cruise provide breathtaking views and dining experiences.
- Many tours offer competitive pricing, excellent value, and flexible cancellation policies, making them accessible to a wide range of travelers.
- Consistently positive customer reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and engaging experiences provided by the various cruises and boat tours in Cape May.
Birding By Boat on the Osprey
The Osprey, a premier birdwatching tour in Cape May, New Jersey, offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe a diverse array of avian species in their natural coastal habitats.
With 675 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, this 2.5-hour excursion is renowned as one of North America’s top birding destinations. Knowledgeable naturalists provide insights into the migratory habits and behaviors of birds, allowing participants to enjoy close encounters with bald eagles, shorebirds, and other wildlife.
Suitable for all experience levels, the tour includes binoculars and is wheelchair accessible, making it an ideal activity for both seasoned birders and casual nature enthusiasts visiting Cape May.
Read our full review: Birding By Boat on the Osprey Review
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Cape May: Cape May Island Sunset Cruise & Dolphin Watching
Cape May Island Sunset Cruise & Dolphin Watching offers visitors a captivating journey along the New Jersey coastline.
This 2-hour sunset cruise departs from Miss Chris Marina, providing scenic views of Cape May’s historic lighthouse and Victorian houses. Guests can spot local marine life, including bottlenose dolphins, Ospreys, and Bald Eagles, while an expert guide offers informative commentary.
The cruise features free pizza and hot dogs, with snacks and beverages available for purchase. Priced from $36.68 per person, the cruise receives excellent reviews, with high ratings for the guide, transportation, and value for money.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s an ideal way to experience the beauty of Cape May from the water.
Read our full review: Cape May: Cape May Island Sunset Cruise & Dolphin Watching Review
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2-Hour Sunset Safari Eco Cruise From Cape May
A captivating 2-hour Sunset Safari Eco Cruise departs from Cape May, inviting guests to enjoy the serene natural wonders of the region.
Boasting 140 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, this eco-cruise offers an exceptional wildlife and learning experience. Passengers can expect up-close views of diverse bird species, including ospreys and ibis, as well as insights into the local ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.
Accessibility features, such as wheelchair-friendly surfaces and transportation, ensure a comfortable journey for all. With a starting price of €36.59 per person and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this sunset cruise presents an excellent value for nature enthusiasts visiting Cape May.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Sunset Safari Eco Cruise From Cape May Review
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Cape May: Weekend Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise
Departing from the heart of Cape May, this weekend whale and dolphin watching cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the vibrant marine life inhabiting the region’s waters.
The 2-hour guided boat trip showcases the area’s natural beauty, including sightings of dolphins swimming alongside the vessel, as well as views of Victorian homes and the iconic Cape May Lighthouse.
Wheelchair-accessible and accompanied by a knowledgeable crew, the cruise provides excellent value for money, with a continental breakfast and safety equipment included in the affordable Kč 872 per person price tag.
Boasting an impressive 4.6/5 overall rating, this cruise is a must-do for visitors seeking an immersive coastal experience.
Read our full review: Cape May: Weekend Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise Review
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Wetlands Safari Cruise (Birding By Boat)
Offering a unique opportunity to take in the captivating natural landscape of Cape May, the Wetlands Safari Eco-Cruise invites visitors on a 2-hour exploration of the region’s vibrant wetlands.
Boasting a 5.0/5 rating, the highly recommended tour departs from a convenient location behind Tony’s Pizza, providing wheelchair and stroller accessibility.
Travelers can expect knowledgeable guides, binoculars, and the chance to observe diverse wildlife, particularly the abundant birdlife of the marshes.
With a maximum capacity of 30 participants, the intimate boat size allows for optimal wildlife viewing.
Customers rave about the relaxing, educational experience and the engaging storytelling from the personable captain, making this eco-cruise a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Cape May.
Read our full review: Wetlands Safari Cruise (Birding By Boat) Review
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Cape May: 2-Hour Dolphin Watching Cruise
Cape May’s pristine waters provide the perfect setting for a captivating 2-hour Dolphin Watching Cruise.
Priced at $36.68 per person, this excursion aboard the 110-foot Cape May Whale Watcher offers the chance to spot playful dolphins in the Atlantic Ocean.
Along the way, passengers can enjoy a continental breakfast while learning about the area’s Victorian homes and lighthouse from an expert guide.
With a 4.7/5 overall rating based on over 100 reviews, this cruise is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Cape May.
Wheelchair accessible and with free cancellation available, this cruise provides a memorable and hassle-free experience.
Read our full review: Cape May: 2-Hour Dolphin Watching Cruise Review
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Public Cycle Boat Tour in Cape May
During a visit to Cape May, travelers can embark on a unique and exhilarating Public Cycle Boat Tour. This 5.0-rated experience features an 11-review tour with a 100% recommendation rate.
The tour departs from the Harbor View Marina lot, with access at Dock A located next to a nearby restaurant. Accommodating up to 16 travelers, the boat offers onboard restrooms and a BYOB policy.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes strollers and service animals. With convenient public transportation nearby, this tour provides an engaging way to explore the waters of Cape May.
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Cape May: Dolphin and Bird Watching Cruise
Travelers can embark on a captivating 2-hour Cape May Dolphin and Bird Watching Cruise, which departs from the Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center.
The cruise focuses on spotting Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins and various bird species, while offering scenic views of the area’s Victorian homes, landmarks, and historic waterfront buildings.
Priced from $40 per person, the tour includes a complimentary continental breakfast, coffee, and juice.
With a live tour guide in English and wheelchair accessibility, the cruise is suitable for a range of travelers.
Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Cape May: Dolphin and Bird Watching Cruise Review
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Dinner Cruise With Dolphin and Whale Watching From Cape May
Departing from the Cape May Whale Watcher, this scenic dinner cruise offers travelers the opportunity to watch for dolphins and whales in the serene waters of Delaware Bay.
With a 4.5-star rating from 45 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, the cruise allows guests to enjoy a buffet dinner and take in views of landmarks like the Cape May Lighthouse and Sunset Beach.
The cruise accommodates up to 100 travelers, with wheelchair accessibility and complimentary parking.
While some reviewers noted issues with food quality and cancellation policies, the majority praised the beautiful sunsets, friendly service, and chances to spot marine life.
Read our full review: Dinner Cruise With Dolphin and Whale Watching From Cape May Review
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Cape May: Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise With Food
For a captivating sunset experience in Cape May, the Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise with Food offers a delightful opportunity to witness the region’s natural beauty.
Priced at $40 per person, this 2-hour cruise allows you to admire colorful sunsets and spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins while learning about their habitat from a live tour guide.
You’ll also enjoy pizza and hot dogs during the trip, as well as views of local landmarks like Victorian homes and the Cape May Point Lighthouse.
With a 4.8/5 rating based on 40 reviews, this cruise is a must-do for those seeking a unique and unforgettable experience in Cape May.
Read our full review: Cape May: Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise With Food Review
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Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise From Cape May
Embarking on a whale and dolphin watching cruise from Cape May promises an immersive exploration of the region’s marine life.
With a 645-review badge of excellence, this sightseeing cruise allows visitors to spot whales, dolphins, and porpoises in their natural habitat.
Guided by a certified naturalist, the fully narrated tour lasts up to three hours and offers a family-friendly experience.
Accessible to wheelchair users and stroller-bound guests, the cruise departs from 1218 Wilson Dr, Cape May, NJ 08204.
While alcoholic drinks and souvenir photos are available for purchase, the tour price starts from $45.00 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise From Cape May Review
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Cape May: Scenic Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise
Cape May’s scenic whale and dolphin watching cruise offers an exhilarating opportunity to observe the region’s diverse marine life.
The 3-hour excursion, priced from $50 per person, sails the Atlantic Ocean in search of bottlenose dolphins, humpback, fin, minke, and critically endangered right whales.
An expert guide provides engaging commentary on local history and nature.
Wheelchair-accessible and with a free cancellation policy, the cruise features scenic views of Delaware Bay and Cape May’s coastline.
While whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, past customers have provided mixed reviews, with an overall rating of 4 out of 5 based on 15 reviews.
Adventurers can reserve their spot online and pay later.
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Cape May: Jersey Shore Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise
Priced from $56.65 per person, the Cape May Jersey Shore Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise offers an exhilarating 3-hour excursion to spot a variety of marine life along the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean.
Guests can expect knowledgeable commentary from the captain, views of historic Victorian buildings, and the chance to see whales, dolphins, and other creatures.
The cruise features the largest and fastest fleet in New Jersey for whale watching, with wheelchair-accessible lower decks and necessary safety equipment provided.
Based on 176 reviews, the tour earns an impressive 4.4/5 rating, with travelers praising the staff’s expertise and the exciting wildlife sightings.
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Cape May: Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Cape May
The Cape May: Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Cape May offers a delightful 2-hour excursion, priced from $83.79 per person.
Available mid-May through September, the cruise features a dinner buffet with dessert, stunning sunset views, and possible sightings of local marine life, including dolphins.
Boarding is at 6:30 PM from Miss Chris Marina, and guests should present their GetYourGuide voucher at the red ticket booth.
The cruise includes all necessary safety equipment, while alcoholic drinks and an upgraded full buffet for children are available for purchase.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 17 reviews, this family-oriented experience promises an unforgettable evening along the Jersey Shore.
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Cape May: Grand Lighthouse Cruise
Exploring the captivating history and architectural marvels of New Jersey’s lighthouses, the 6-hour Cape May: Grand Lighthouse Cruise takes participants on a remarkable journey along the Jersey Shore.
Led by a live English-speaking tour guide, the cruise visits nine historic lighthouses, providing narrated insights into their importance, design, and role in the success of major ports like Philadelphia.
With complimentary continental breakfast and lunch included, as well as gratuities, the cruise offers an immersive and hassle-free experience.
Wheelchair-accessible and with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Grand Lighthouse Cruise is an ideal way to discover the rich maritime heritage of New Jersey’s coastline.
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Cape May: Sunset Dolphin Cruise With Optional Wine Tastings
Serenity envelops the Cape May coast as the Cape May: Sunset Dolphin Cruise With Optional Wine Tastings sets sail, offering a captivating blend of sightseeing and wildlife observation.
This 2-hour cruise features a live English-speaking guide and is wheelchair accessible. Priced from $57.64 per person, the tour allows you to reserve now and pay later.
Highlights include stunning sunset views, the chance to spot Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins, and passing by the iconic Cape May lighthouse and Victorian waterfront homes.
For an elevated experience, guests can opt for a wine tasting of three local award-winning wines paired with cheese and fruit.
Read our full review: Cape May: Sunset Dolphin Cruise With Optional Wine Tastings Review
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Recap
The Cape May area offers a variety of cruises and boat tours to suit different interests. From birding and dolphin watching to sunset and lighthouse tours, there’s something for all. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or a scenic cruise, the options in Cape May provide ample opportunities to explore the local waterways and wildlife.