Best Whale Watching Tours at the Jersey Shore
See humpback whales, dolphins, and more off the New Jersey coast. These boat tours depart from Cape May to Point Pleasant.
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Tours
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Ports
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Whale Tours
Why Whale Watch in New Jersey?
New Jersey has become one of the best whale watching destinations on the East Coast. Humpback whale populations have surged in recent years, following massive schools of menhaden that thrive in the nutrient-rich waters off the Jersey Shore.
Summer is prime time. From July through September, humpback whales can be found feeding just 10-15 miles offshore. Some days, whales are spotted within sight of the beach. Dolphins are seen on nearly every trip year-round.
Cape May leads the way with multiple whale watching operators and the highest sighting rates, but excellent tours depart from Atlantic City, LBI, Belmar, and Point Pleasant as well. Most trips last 2-3 hours and include naturalist guides who identify species and explain whale behavior.
Cape May
The whale watching capital of New Jersey with multiple operators and the highest sighting rates.
Cape May Whale Watcher
$$Whale ToursThe premier whale watching operation in New Jersey with daily departures from Cape May Harbor.
Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center
$$Whale ToursResearch-focused trips that contribute to ongoing whale population studies.
Spirit of Cape May
$Dolphin watching cruises and sunset tours along the Cape May coastline.
Big Blue Whale Watching
$$Whale ToursWhale and dolphin watching from Wildwood Crest Marina with experienced captains.
Atlantic County
Convenient whale and dolphin watching from Atlantic City, perfect for casino visitors.
Atlantic City Cruises - Whale Watching
$$Whale ToursWhale watching departing from the Atlantic City Marina, convenient for boardwalk visitors.
Atlantic Star Dolphin Cruise
$Popular dolphin cruises along the Atlantic City coastline with great sighting rates.
Long Beach Island
Whale watching from LBI with beautiful lighthouse views and smaller group sizes.
Miss Barnegat Light
$$Whale ToursWhale watching from Barnegat Light on LBI with beautiful lighthouse views.
Double Trouble Charters
$$Private and semi-private dolphin watching charters from Beach Haven.
Monmouth County
Northern shore whale watching from Belmar to Point Pleasant, convenient for North Jersey visitors.
Miss Belmar Princess
$$Whale ToursFamily-owned whale watching operation from Belmar Marina with personalized service.
Sea Streak Ferry - Whale Watching
$$Whale ToursWhale watching aboard large, stable ferries departing from Sandy Hook Bay.
Point Pleasant Beach Whale Watching
$$Whale ToursConvenient whale watching departing near Jenkinson boardwalk attractions.
Whale Watching Tips
🐋Book Morning Trips
Morning departures typically have calmer seas and better visibility. Afternoon winds can make the ride rougher.
🐋Bring Binoculars
8x42 or 10x42 binoculars are ideal for whale watching. They help spot distant spouts and identify species.
🐋Dress in Layers
Even on hot summer days, temperatures drop 15-20 degrees on the water. Bring a jacket and windbreaker.
🐋Prevent Seasickness
Take motion sickness medication 30-60 minutes before departure. Stay on deck, look at the horizon, and avoid alcohol.
🐋Charge Your Camera
Whale encounters happen fast. Have your camera ready with a charged battery and empty memory card.
🐋Listen to the Crew
Crew members spot whales before passengers. Watch where they point and follow their directions for best views.
Book whale watching in Cape May
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Essential Whale Watching Gear
Quality binoculars and optics for spotting whales and dolphins off the Jersey Shore.
Binoculars (8x42)
8x42 is the sweet spot for birding. Waterproof essential for shore.
Spotting Scope
For distant shorebirds and waterfowl. 20-60x zoom.
Field Guide
Sibley or Peterson guides are gold standards.
Photography/Birding Vest
Pockets for field guide, snacks, and accessories.
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FAQ
When is the best time for whale watching in New Jersey?
Peak season is July through September when humpback whales follow baitfish close to shore. Spring (April-May) brings migrating whales, and fall offers good sightings as whales head south. Dolphins are seen year-round.
What whales can you see off New Jersey?
Humpback whales are most common, often seen lunge feeding on menhaden. Fin whales, minke whales, and occasionally pilot whales are spotted. Bottlenose dolphins are seen on nearly every trip.
How long are whale watching trips?
Most whale watching trips are 2-3 hours. Some operators offer longer pelagic trips (6-8 hours) that venture further offshore for seabirds and ocean sunfish.
What should I bring on a whale watching trip?
Bring binoculars, sunscreen, layers (it can be cold on the water even in summer), sunglasses, and a camera with zoom lens. Motion sickness medication if you are prone to seasickness.
Do I need to book whale watching in advance?
Yes, especially for weekend trips in summer. Most tours sell out, particularly morning departures which tend to have calmer seas. Book at least a few days ahead.
Are whale sightings guaranteed?
No operator can guarantee whale sightings, but most report 80-90% success rates during peak season. Some operators offer rain checks if no whales are seen.
Can kids go whale watching?
Yes, whale watching is great for kids. Choose morning trips (calmer water) and bring motion sickness medication. Most boats have indoor seating and restrooms.
What is the difference between whale watching and dolphin watching?
Dolphin watching trips are shorter (1-2 hours), stay closer to shore, and focus on bottlenose dolphins. Whale watching trips go 10-20 miles offshore and search for larger whales. Many trips combine both.
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