Cape May: Scenic Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise

Cape May, situated on the southern tip of New Jersey, is a prime destination for nature enthusiasts seeking to witness the wonders of coastal wildlife. A scenic whale and dolphin watching cruise offers visitors a unique opportunity to observe these captivating marine creatures in their natural habitat. Led by knowledgeable guides, the 3-hour adventure promises breathtaking views of Delaware Bay and the surrounding coastline, while providing fascinating insights into the local history and marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned explorer or a first-time visitor, this cruise promises to be a highlight of your Cape May experience, leaving you eager to discover more.

This experience made our list of the 16 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Cape May.

Key Points

• A 3-hour whale and dolphin watching cruise near Cape May, priced at €45.10 per person with a live English-speaking guide.
• Opportunities to observe bottlenose dolphins and migrating baleen whales, including humpback, fin, minke, and right whales.
• Breathtaking views of Delaware Bay and Cape May’s coastal sights, with informative commentary from the expert guide.
• Convenient parking and wheelchair accessibility at the departure point, with nearby shops and restaurants for exploration.
• Recommended to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and bring sun protection and optional items like a camera and binoculars.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The Cape May whale and dolphin watching cruise offers a 3-hour adventure exploring the Atlantic Ocean.

Priced from €45.10 per person, the tour provides a live English-speaking guide and is wheelchair accessible. Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The cruise allows visitors to observe bottlenose dolphins and various migrating baleen whales, including humpback, fin, minke, and the critically endangered right whale.

Along the way, the guide shares insights into local history and nature, while passengers enjoy scenic views of Delaware Bay and Cape May’s coastal sights.

Experience Highlights

Although the cruise primarily focuses on searching the Atlantic Ocean for marine life, passengers can look forward to observing a variety of captivating creatures.

The highlight is the opportunity to witness the graceful movements of bottlenose dolphins and the awe-inspiring presence of migrating baleen whales, including humpback, fin, minke, and the critically endangered right whales.

The expert guide will share local history and fascinating insights about the natural wonders encountered, enhancing the overall experience.

Passengers can expect:

• Breathtaking views of the Delaware Bay and Cape May’s picturesque coastline
• Chance to spot a diverse array of marine species in their natural habitat
• Educational commentary from a knowledgeable guide
• Relaxing journey on the open waters
• Memorable photographic opportunities

Tour Description

Typically, the excursion begins by scanning the coastline for sightings of dolphins.

As the vessel ventures further into the Atlantic Ocean, the expert guide continues searching for various whale species, including humpback, fin, minke, and the critically endangered right whale.

Along the way, the guide points out historic sites and Victorian architecture that dot the Cape May shoreline, providing passengers with insights into the area’s rich history.

Navigating towards the open waters, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the Delaware Bay and the coastal sights, creating a memorable experience during the 3-hour whale and dolphin watching cruise.

Cruise Inclusions

The whale and dolphin watching cruise includes a guided tour led by knowledgeable experts, providing passengers with valuable insights into the local marine life and history.

Guests are equipped with safety gear and enjoy a scenic sightseeing cruise along the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. Parking is available, and food and drinks can be purchased on board.

The cruise offers:

• Unparalleled views of the coastline and its Victorian architecture
• An opportunity to spot a variety of whale and dolphin species
• Live commentary from the tour guide, sharing fascinating facts
• Comfort and convenience with wheelchair accessibility
• Flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Feedback

Customers have shared mixed reviews about their experiences on the whale and dolphin watching cruise. According to the ratings, the tour has an overall score of 4.3 out of 5 based on 10 reviews.

Positive comments highlight the abundance of dolphin sightings and the friendliness of the staff. However, some passengers had mixed reactions regarding the whale sightings and felt the staff could have paid more attention to their needs, especially those from diverse backgrounds.

While the majority of customers enjoyed the scenic coastal views and the informative nature of the guided tour, a few mentioned issues with staff interaction and responsiveness to passenger diversity.

Getting to the Cruise

Ample free parking is available at the cruise departure point, located just a short walk from the Cape May beachfront.

Getting to the cruise couldn’t be easier, with convenient access and flexible options to fit your needs. The location offers:

• Picturesque views of the harbor and Delaware Bay
• Nearby shops, restaurants, and attractions to explore before or after the tour
• Easy navigation with clear signage and helpful staff on-site
• Wheelchair-accessible pathways for seamless boarding
• Proximity to public transportation for those without a car

The stress-free arrival experience sets the stage for an unforgettable whale and dolphin watching adventure along the stunning Cape May coastline.

Dress and Packing Tips

Dressing appropriately and packing the right items can enhance the overall experience of the whale and dolphin watching cruise. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, as the temperature can fluctuate on the open water. Bring a lightweight jacket or sweater, as it may be cooler on the boat. Don’t forget sun protection, such as sunglasses and sunscreen. Sturdy, non-slip shoes are recommended for navigating the vessel. Plus, consider bringing a camera or binoculars to capture the stunning coastal views and marine life.

Essential Items	Optional Items
Comfortable clothing	Camera
Warm layer	Binoculars
Sunscreen	Motion sickness medication
Non-slip shoes	Snacks and drinks
Hat or visor	Waterproof bag

Additional Information

Where can participants board the whale and dolphin watching cruise? The tour departs from the dock at the South Jersey Marina in Cape May.

Participants will find ample parking available near the marina. Once on board, they’ll enjoy a 3-hour sightseeing cruise along the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, searching for migrating whales and playful dolphins.

The tour includes:

• Live narration from an expert guide
• Wheelchair accessibility
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Stunning views of Cape May’s coastline
• Food and drinks available for purchase

Customers have praised the friendly staff and frequent dolphin sightings, though whale encounters can be more unpredictable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Typical Weather During the Cruise?

The weather during the cruise is typically mild and pleasant, with cool ocean breezes. Temperatures range from 60-75°F (15-24°C), and skies are often clear, allowing for optimal viewing conditions of the marine life.

Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for the Cruise?

There are no age or health restrictions for the cruise. Children of all ages are welcome, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for passengers with limited mobility. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on board the cruise. However, there is also a concession stand that offers snacks and beverages for purchase during the tour.

Are There Any Discounts or Package Deals Available?

The cruise operator offers a range of discounts and package deals, such as family packages and senior discounts. Customers can check the website or contact the tour provider for the latest offers and bundle options.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Cruise?

The cancellation and refund policy for the cruise is that customers can receive a full refund if they cancel up to 24 hours in advance. This allows for flexible scheduling and protects customers’ financial investment.

Recap

Cape May’s scenic whale and dolphin watching cruise offers a captivating adventure for nature enthusiasts. Led by expert guides, this 3-hour tour provides stunning views of Delaware Bay and the coastline, along with the chance to observe the graceful movements of bottlenose dolphins and migrating baleen whales in their natural habitat. With wheelchair accessibility and flexible cancellation policies, it’s a memorable outing for the whole family.

You can check if your dates are available here: