Cape May’s whale watching scene ranks among the Northeast’s finest marine experiences. Located where Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic, the area attracts multiple species of whales and dolphins year-round.
The best tours leave from the Miss Chris Marina, offering 3-hour trips that strike a perfect balance between comfort and wildlife spotting. I’m particularly fond of the morning excursions – they provide the calmest waters and best visibility. The Spirit of Cape May stands out for its spacious viewing decks and marine biologist narration.
What makes these tours special? Each boat maintains a respectful distance from marine life while getting close enough for excellent photos. The crews are exceptional at spotting wildlife, and their passion for ocean conservation shows in every trip.
Check our recommended tour selections below for specific schedules and booking details.
Good To Know
- The Miss Chris Marina offers a 3-hour whale and dolphin watching cruise with a certified naturalist providing live commentary.
- The Cape May Whale Watcher dinner cruise includes a 45-minute cruise, dinner, and parking for a maximum of 100 travelers.
- The Jersey Shore whale and dolphin watching cruise is a 3-hour guided tour with a knowledgeable captain and narrator.
- The scenic whale and dolphin watching cruise departs from historic Cape May Harbor and lasts 3 hours.
- The weekend whale and dolphin watching cruise from Cape May is a 2-hour experience with continental breakfast, coffee, and juice.
Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise From Cape May
The Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise from Cape May offers an exhilarating opportunity to spot a variety of marine life along the Cape May Peninsula. Departing from the Miss Chris Marina, the cruise takes guests on a three-hour journey to the best locations for spotting whales, dolphins, and porpoises.
Aboard the large boat, a certified naturalist provides live commentary, sharing insights about the creatures and the area’s maritime heritage. Guests can enjoy the scenery and watch for glimpses of the marine animals, with the possibility of capturing souvenir photos. The cruise includes parking fees and allows guests to purchase food, drinks, and alcoholic beverages.
With a maximum capacity of 150 travelers, the cruise operates in most weather conditions, making it an accessible and enjoyable experience for both adults and children. Whether a first-time visitor or a local, the Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise offers a unique opportunity to connect with the marine life and natural beauty of Cape May.
Read our full review: Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise From Cape May Review
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Dinner Cruise With Dolphin and Whale Watching From Cape May
For those seeking a unique dining experience coupled with the chance to spot whales and dolphins, the Dinner Cruise with Dolphin and Whale Watching from Cape May delivers. With 45 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this 45-minute cruise departs from the Cape May Whale Watcher at 1218 Wilson Dr, Cape May, NJ 08204.
Guests will enjoy dinner, parking at Miss Chris Marina, and gratuities, all while cruising the waters in search of these magnificent creatures. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with transportation and surfaces accommodating those with mobility needs. With a maximum of 100 travelers per tour, guests can expect an intimate experience.
Confirmation is received at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours prior. Whether you’re a local or visiting Cape May, this dinner cruise offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the beauty of whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
Read our full review: Dinner Cruise With Dolphin and Whale Watching From Cape May Review
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Cape May: Jersey Shore Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise
On the Jersey Shore, the Cape May: Jersey Shore Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise offers an unforgettable opportunity to witness the majestic marine life of the region. This 3-hour guided tour allows visitors to marvel at the scenic ocean and historic waterfront while enjoying the company of a live tour guide. The cruise is wheelchair accessible and includes safety equipment, making it an inclusive experience for all.
Highlights of the tour include the chance to see whales, dolphins, and other beautiful marine life up close. The knowledgeable captain and narrator provide insightful commentary on the area’s history and nature. Reviewers consistently praise the staff’s expertise and the overall enjoyment of the experience.
For those looking to explore the Jersey Shore’s wildlife, the Cape May: Jersey Shore Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise is a must-do activity. With its convenient parking, flexible booking, and opportunity to purchase food and drinks onboard, this tour provides a comfortable and engaging way to connect with the coastal ecosystem.
Read our full review: Cape May: Jersey Shore Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise Review
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Cape May: Scenic Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise
Departing from the historic Cape May Harbor, the Scenic Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise takes visitors on a captivating 3-hour journey to witness the majestic marine life of the region. Equipped with expert guides, the cruise explores the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, offering the chance to spot iconic baleen whales and playful bottlenose dolphins. Throughout the excursion, guests learn about the local history and nature, gaining insights into the diverse species and coastal sights of Cape May.
The cruise provides safety equipment and parking, ensuring a seamless experience. While food and drinks are available for purchase, the focus remains on the incredible wildlife encounters. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, the Scenic Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise in Cape May provides a must-do adventure for nature enthusiasts and sightseers alike.
Read our full review: Cape May: Scenic Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise Review
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Cape May: Weekend Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise
Cape May’s Weekend Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise invites visitors on a captivating 2-hour journey to witness the region’s remarkable marine life. Priced at Kč 880 per person, this cruise offers the opportunity to see dolphins swimming in the ocean and alongside the boat. Guests will also get to admire the Victorian homes, the Cape May Lighthouse, and other historic waterfront buildings.
The cruise includes a continental breakfast, coffee, and juice, as well as safety equipment and free parking at Miss Chris Marina. Wheelchair-accessible, the tour is led by a live English-speaking guide. Booking is available with a “Reserve now & pay later” option, allowing visitors to secure their spot without paying upfront. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cruise provides flexibility and convenience for travelers to Cape May.
Read our full review: Cape May: Weekend Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise Review
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The Sum Up
Cape May offers numerous whale and dolphin watching experiences, from cruises that provide up-close encounters with marine life to scenic tours showcasing the area’s natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in a dinner cruise or a weekend excursion, there’s an option to suit your preferences and ensure an unforgettable adventure along the Jersey Shore.