Best Boat Tours at the Jersey Shore 2026
Explore the Jersey Shore by boat with sightseeing cruises, sunset tours, and harbor adventures. Tours depart from Cape May to Sandy Hook.
Why Take a Boat Tour at the Jersey Shore?
The Jersey Shore looks completely different from the water. Boat tours offer unique perspectives on coastal towns, wildlife encounters, and stunning sunsets.
- Unique perspectives — See lighthouses, casino skylines, and historic estates from the water
- Wildlife encounters — Dolphins, whales, and seabirds are commonly spotted on tours
- Stunning sunsets — Nothing beats watching the sun set over the bay from a boat
- NYC access — Fast ferry service connects Sandy Hook to Manhattan
- Year-round options — Ferries operate year-round; cruises run spring through fall
Cape May County
Premium boat tours from Cape May including whale watching, dolphin cruises, and Delaware Bay ferries.
Popular harbor cruises with sunset tours and dolphin watching.
- Sunset cruises
- Dolphin watching
- Lighthouse views
- BYOB allowed
Scenic ferry crossing Delaware Bay between Cape May and Lewes, DE.
- Delaware day trips
- Year-round service
- Restaurant on board
- Vehicle ferry
Premier whale and dolphin watching with naturalist guides.
- Whale watching
- Naturalist guides
- Climate-controlled
- Snack bar
Big Blue Sailing
Wildwood · The Wildwoods
Sailing adventures along the Wildwood coast on a classic sailboat.
- Sailing experience
- Sunset sails
- Small groups
- BYOB allowed
Atlantic & Ocean City
Casino skyline cruises and back bay tours near Atlantic City and Ocean City.
Casino skyline cruises with happy hour and sunset options.
- Casino views
- Happy hour cruise
- Full bar
- Near boardwalk
Dolphin watching along the Atlantic City coastline.
- Dolphin watching
- Multiple departures
- Family friendly
- Quick trip
Scenic back bay cruises and wildlife tours from Ocean City.
- Bay exploration
- Wildlife viewing
- Family friendly
- Near boardwalk
Long Beach Island & Ocean County
LBI bay tours, lighthouse cruises, and sunset sails from Barnegat Light to Point Pleasant.
Barnegat Inlet tours with lighthouse views and bay exploration.
- Lighthouse views
- Inlet exploration
- Seal watching (winter)
- Fishing available
Relaxing sunset cruises from the Point Pleasant marina.
- Sunset views
- BYOB allowed
- Near boardwalk
- Romantic setting
LBI bay cruises with nature tours and sunset options.
- Bay tours
- Nature cruise
- Sunset options
- No reservation needed
Monmouth County
NYC ferry service, dinner cruises, and river tours from Sandy Hook Bay to Red Bank.
Sea Streak Ferry
Highlands · Sandy Hook Bay
Fast ferry service to Manhattan with stunning NYC harbor views.
- NYC day trips
- Harbor views
- Statue of Liberty
- Year-round service
Shark River cruises and coastal sightseeing from Belmar Marina.
- River cruise
- Coastal views
- Near restaurants
- Sunset options
River Queen Cruise Line
Brielle
Elegant dinner cruises on the Manasquan River with live entertainment.
- Dinner service
- Live music
- Special events
- Private charters
Red Bank River Cruises
Red Bank
Scenic Navesink River cruises with views of historic estates.
- Historic estates
- River scenery
- BYOB allowed
- Private charters
Boat Tour Tips
Book Morning Tours
Morning tours have calmer water and fewer crowds. Wind and waves typically pick up in the afternoon.
Bring Layers
It's always cooler on the water. Bring a jacket or sweatshirt even on warm days.
Arrive Early
Most tours ask passengers to arrive 15-30 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding.
Sunset Sells Out
Sunset cruises are the most popular. Book these several days in advance, especially on weekends.
Check BYOB Policy
Some tours allow you to bring your own food and drinks. Others have onboard service only.
Consider Weekdays
Weekday tours often have smaller crowds and may offer discounted rates.
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FAQ
What types of boat tours are available at the Jersey Shore?
The Jersey Shore offers sightseeing cruises, sunset tours, dolphin watching, whale watching, lighthouse tours, dinner cruises, and party boats. Most depart from major ports like Cape May, Atlantic City, and Point Pleasant.
How much do boat tours cost in New Jersey?
Basic sightseeing tours start at $25-35 per person for 1-2 hours. Sunset cruises run $40-60. Specialty tours like dinner cruises or fishing charters cost $75-150+ depending on duration and amenities.
When is the best time for boat tours in NJ?
Peak season is June through September with warm weather and calm seas. May and October offer good conditions with fewer crowds. Morning tours typically have calmer water than afternoon trips.
Do I need to book boat tours in advance?
Yes, especially for weekend trips and sunset cruises in summer. Book at least a few days ahead for popular tours. Some operators offer last-minute walk-up availability on weekdays.
What should I bring on a boat tour?
Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a light jacket (it gets windy on the water), and a camera. Some tours have food/drink service; others allow you to bring your own. Check tour policies.
Are boat tours suitable for kids?
Most sightseeing and dolphin watching tours are great for kids. The shorter 1-2 hour tours work best for young children. Some party boats and evening cruises are 21+ only.
What if I get seasick on boat tours?
Take motion sickness medication 30-60 minutes before departure. Choose morning tours when water is calmer. Stay on deck, look at the horizon, and avoid alcohol. Back bay tours have minimal motion.
Can I bring food and drinks on boat tours?
Policies vary by operator. Many tours have onboard bars and snack service. Some allow outside food and non-alcoholic drinks. BYOB is usually not permitted on commercial vessels.