Charter Boats & Party Boats
Browse 30 charter and party boat operations across the Jersey Shore. From affordable group trips to private offshore adventures.
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Party Boat vs Private Charter
Party Boats (Head Boats)
- • $50-90 per person
- • All tackle and bait included
- • Fish with other anglers (20-80+ people)
- • Great for beginners and families
- • Fixed schedule departures
- • Target: Sea bass, fluke, blues, stripers
Private Charters
- • $475-3,500+ for the boat
- • Custom trip for your group (up to 6)
- • Choose your target species
- • Experienced captain's guidance
- • Flexible scheduling
- • Target: Tuna, shark, trophy stripers
🆕 First-Timer's Complete Guide
Never been on a fishing charter? Here's everything you need to know for a successful first trip.
What to Expect: Trip Timeline
Take seasickness meds (Dramamine)
Non-drowsy formula the night before is more effective than morning dosing.
Arrive at dock
Find parking, use restrooms, meet the crew. Don't be late—boats leave on time.
Safety briefing
Listen carefully. Learn where life jackets are, how to use the head (bathroom), and boat rules.
Setup and wait
Mates prepare rods. Stay out of the way. This is when seasickness hits if it's going to.
Follow crew instructions
They know where fish are and how to catch them. Do what they say.
Fish, relax, repeat
You'll have active periods and waiting. Enjoy being on the water.
Keep fishing!
Last hour is often the best. Stay focused.
Fish cleaning (optional)
Mates clean fish for tips. Usually $2-5/fish. Well worth it.
👕 What to Wear
- ✓Layers — It's 10-15°F cooler offshore. Bring a hoodie or windbreaker even in summer.
- ✓Rubber-soled shoes — Deck shoes or sneakers with grip. NO flip-flops—you'll slip.
- ✓Hat with retainer — Wide brim for sun protection. Use a strap or it's gone.
- ✓Polarized sunglasses — Reduce glare off water. Helps you see fish. Use a retainer strap.
- ✓Old clothes — You'll smell like fish and bait. Don't wear anything precious.
🎒 What to Bring
- ✓Sunscreen (SPF 50+)Reapply every 2 hours. Water reflection doubles UV exposure.
- ✓Dramamine/BonineTake the night before AND morning for best results.
- ✓Cash for tipsATMs aren't on boats. Bring $20-50+ per person for mates.
- ✓Cooler with iceFor your catch. Some boats provide fish bags, but cooler is better.
- ✓Snacks and drinksBoats may have a galley, but bring your own to be safe.
- ✓Camera (waterproof case)For trophy photos. Phones die from salt spray.
❌ Leave at home:
- Bananas — Fishing superstition—bananas are bad luck on boats. Seriously.
- Expensive jewelry — Rings slip off when hands are wet and slimy.
- Alcohol (before fishing) — Save it for after. Alcohol + sun + motion = disaster.
🤢 Beating Seasickness
Seasickness is the #1 concern for first-timers. Here's how to prevent and manage it.
Prevention Methods
Night before + morning of
Non-drowsy formulas work well. Most effective prevention method.
Apply 8-12 hours before
Prescription required. Best for those highly prone to motion sickness.
30 min before departure
Natural option. Ginger candy or capsules.
Wear during trip
Acupressure wristbands. Works for some, placebo for others.
On the Boat
- →Stay on deckFresh air helps. Going below deck makes it worse.
- →Look at the horizonGives your brain a stable reference point.
- →Stand near the centerLess motion in the middle of the boat than bow or stern.
- →Avoid screens/readingLooking down at your phone is a fast track to nausea.
- →Eat light, not emptyEmpty stomach is worse. Light breakfast (crackers, toast) helps.
- →Stay hydratedDehydration makes seasickness worse. Drink water, not alcohol.
If You Get Sick
- Go to the downwind side (leeward) and use the rail—NOT into the wind
- Let it happen. Fighting it prolongs misery. You'll feel better after.
- Stay on deck. Fresh air and horizon help recovery.
- Drink water slowly. Small sips.
- Most people recover within 30-60 minutes and can keep fishing.
💵 Tipping Guide
Tipping is customary and expected on fishing charters. Here's how to do it right.
| Trip Type | Standard Tip | Great Service | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Party Boat (half day) | $10-15/person | $15-20/person | Tip goes to the mates (deckhands), not the captain. |
| Party Boat (full day) | $15-25/person | $25-30/person | Longer trip, more work for crew. Tip accordingly. |
| Private Charter (half day) | 15-20% of trip cost | 20-25% | Split between captain and mate, or give to captain to distribute. |
| Private Charter (full day) | 15-20% of trip cost | 20-25% | For a $1,500 trip, $225-375 is customary. |
| Canyon/Offshore Trip | 20% of trip cost | 25%+ | These are grueling trips. Crew works hard. Tip well. |
Extra Tipping Situations
- Fish cleaning$2-5 per fish
- Helped a beginnerAdd $5-10
- Bad weather/tough fishingFull tip anyway
- You got skunkedStill tip!
How to Tip
- →Cash is king—ATMs aren't on boats. Bring bills.
- →Hand tip directly to mate at end of trip, with thanks.
- →On private charters, give to captain to distribute.
- →Venmo/digital is sometimes accepted—ask first.
🗺️ Choosing Your Port
Each NJ fishing port has different strengths. Here's how to choose.
🎣 Belmar
Variety, convenience, large fleet
Party boats: Excellent selection
Private: Many options
Species: Fluke, sea bass, blues, stripers, tuna
💡 Best all-around choice for first-timers. Biggest fleet, most options.
⛵ Point Pleasant
Family fishing, heritage boats
Party boats: Legendary (Gambler, Queen Mary)
Private: Good selection
Species: Fluke, sea bass, bluefish
💡 Great for families. Fish in morning, boardwalk in afternoon.
🏠 Barnegat Light
LBI visitors, local feel
Party boats: Limited options
Private: Several good ones
Species: Fluke, stripers, tuna (offshore)
💡 Best if already staying on LBI. Viking Village atmosphere.
🎰 Atlantic City
Back bay fishing, casino combos
Party boats: Some options
Private: Good for back bay
Species: Flounder, weakfish, stripers
💡 Unique back bay fishing. Fish morning, casino afternoon.
🐋 Cape May
Canyon trips, trophy fishing
Party boats: Several options
Private: Premium offshore fleet
Species: Tuna, marlin, sharks, stripers
💡 Premier port for serious offshore fishing. Canyon trips leave from here.
Belmar Fishing Charters
Premier NJ fishing port with legendary party boats and private charters. Home to the SS Miss Belmar and Canyon Eagle fleet.
SS Miss Belmar
Party Boat
The largest party boat in Belmar Marina at 125 feet, the SS Miss Belmar has maintained #1 customer satisfaction ratings for 23 consecutive years. A true Belmar institution offering comfortable fishing for striped bass, bluefish, sea bass, and fluke.
- ✓Largest party boat in Belmar Marina
- ✓#1 customer satisfaction for 23 consecutive years
- ✓Full galley service
Target Species
Golden Eagle
Private Charter - Capt. Rich Falcone
State-of-the-art sportfishing charter captained by Rich Falcone. The Golden Eagle offers premium private charters with full galley service and modern electronics for serious anglers targeting trophy fish.
- ✓State-of-the-art electronics
- ✓Full galley service
- ✓Experienced captain
Target Species
Canyon Eagle I
Private Charter
Part of the Canyon Eagle Fleet, offering 6-hour inshore trips to 24-hour offshore canyon expeditions. Specializes in tuna, mahi, and shark trips with experienced crews who know the offshore canyons.
- ✓Offshore canyon specialists
- ✓24-hour expedition capability
- ✓Part of Canyon Eagle Fleet
Target Species
Canyon Eagle II
Private Charter
Sister vessel in the Canyon Eagle Fleet, equipped for extended offshore trips targeting tuna, wahoo, and marlin in the offshore canyons. Experienced crew with decades of canyon fishing experience.
- ✓Blue marlin capability
- ✓Extended range for deep canyon trips
- ✓Premium offshore equipment
Target Species
Canyon Eagle III
Private Charter
The newest addition to the Canyon Eagle Fleet, featuring the latest in fishing technology and comfortable accommodations for long offshore trips.
- ✓Newest vessel in fleet
- ✓Latest fishing technology
- ✓Premium accommodations
Target Species
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Point Pleasant Beach Fishing Charters
Family fishing heritage dating back to 1949. The Gambler, Queen Mary, and multiple private charter operations.
The Gambler
Party Boat
A family operation since 1949, The Gambler is the widest party boat in its class featuring underwater hull lights and heated/AC cabin for year-round comfort. Located at 59 Inlet Drive.
- ✓Family operation since 1949
- ✓Widest party boat in class
- ✓Underwater hull lights
- ✓Heated/AC cabin
Target Species
Queen Mary
Party Boat - Capt. David Riback
An 85-foot party boat captained by David Riback, sailing daily open-boat trips at 7:30 AM. Currently operates at 50% capacity for passenger comfort, ensuring a quality experience for all anglers.
- ✓Operates at 50% capacity for comfort
- ✓Experienced Captain David Riback
- ✓85-foot vessel
Target Species
Blue Chip Sportfishing
Private Charter
Premium private charter limiting groups to 6 passengers maximum for a personalized fishing experience. Specializes in both inshore and offshore trips, including dedicated shark charters.
- ✓Maximum 6 passengers
- ✓Dedicated shark charters available
- ✓Inshore and offshore capability
Target Species
SeaOwl Fishing Charters
Private Charter - Capt. Christopher Dos Santos Jr.
Captained by Christopher Dos Santos Jr., a third-generation fishing captain, SeaOwl specializes in bluefin tuna with catches up to 550 lbs. Known for putting clients on trophy fish.
- ✓Third-generation captain
- ✓Bluefin tuna specialists
- ✓Catches up to 550 lbs documented
Target Species
Fish Monger Charters
Party Boat
A 50-foot custom vessel accommodating up to 46 passengers. Perfect for larger groups and corporate outings while still offering quality fishing for a variety of species.
- ✓46 passenger capacity
- ✓Great for groups
- ✓Custom 50-foot vessel
Target Species
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Barnegat Light Fishing Charters
Historic Viking Village with Norwegian fishing heritage. Gateway to LBI fishing and offshore grounds.
Miss Beach Haven
Party Boat - Capt. Frank Camarda
An 80-foot party boat captained by Frank Camarda, departing from Beach Haven. One of the premier party boats on Long Beach Island, offering consistent catches and experienced crew.
- ✓80-foot vessel
- ✓Captain Frank Camarda
- ✓Premier LBI party boat
Target Species
Benita J Charters
Private Charter - Capt. Dave Wittenborn
Captained by Dave Wittenborn with 25+ years of experience, Benita J offers private charters departing from either Beach Haven or Waretown. Known for consistent catches and personalized service.
- ✓25+ years experience
- ✓Flexible departure locations
- ✓Personalized service
Target Species
Viking Village Charter Fleet
Private Charter
Viking Village in Barnegat Light represents a living fishing heritage. Founded in the 1920s by Norwegian immigrants, this working port home-ports 40+ commercial vessels. Several charter operations depart from the village, offering authentic fishing experiences with working fishermen.
- ✓Historic Norwegian fishing village
- ✓40+ commercial vessels
- ✓Authentic fishing experience
- ✓Educational dock tours available
Target Species
Reel Fun Charters LBI
Private Charter
Family-friendly charter operation specializing in bay fishing in Barnegat Bay. Perfect for families with kids looking for a calmer fishing experience with good catch rates.
- ✓Family-friendly
- ✓Bay fishing specialists
- ✓Calm water fishing
- ✓Great for kids
Target Species
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Atlantic City Fishing Charters
Gardner's Basin fishing center with unique back bay options and offshore expeditions.
Highroller Fishing
Party Boat
Operating from Gardner's Basin, Highroller is the only back bay party boat in Atlantic City. Features a "No Seasick Guarantee" making it perfect for families and first-time anglers. Calm bay waters ensure a comfortable experience.
- ✓No Seasick Guarantee
- ✓Only back bay party boat in AC
- ✓Perfect for families
- ✓Calm bay waters
Target Species
Moover Fishing Adventures
Private Charter - Capt. Rob
Captain Rob offers extensive fishing options from back bay trips to overnight 30-36 hour canyon expeditions. One of the most versatile charter operations on the Jersey Shore with options for every skill level and budget.
- ✓Bay trips to 36-hour canyon expeditions
- ✓Shark trip specialists ($1,850)
- ✓Versatile operations
- ✓Year-round availability
Target Species
Atlantic City Fishing Center
Party Boat
A full-service fishing center offering party boat trips, private charters, and fishing supplies. Located near the inlet for quick access to both bay and ocean fishing grounds.
- ✓Full-service fishing center
- ✓Quick inlet access
- ✓Bay and ocean fishing
Target Species
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Cape May Fishing Charters
Southernmost NJ port with access to Delaware Bay and deep canyon fishing 60-70 miles offshore.
Miss Chris Boats
Party Boat
Operating an 80-foot air-conditioned vessel, Miss Chris Boats offers three daily trips: Early Bird (8 AM), Late Riser (1 PM), and Sunset (6 PM). A Cape May fishing institution perfect for families and casual anglers.
- ✓Three daily departure times
- ✓Air-conditioned 80-foot vessel
- ✓Great for families
- ✓Sunset trips available
Target Species
Vet Craft Sport Fishing
Private Charter - Capt. Harvey Yenkinson
Captained by Harvey Yenkinson, Vet Craft offers premium 8-hour private charters targeting a variety of inshore and nearshore species. Known for putting clients on quality fish consistently.
- ✓8-hour private charters
- ✓Experienced Captain Yenkinson
- ✓Consistent catches
Target Species
Gone Fishin' Sport Fishing Charters
Private Charter
Specializing in offshore canyon trips, Gone Fishin' runs 16-hour expeditions 60-70 miles out targeting tuna, wahoo, and mahi. For serious offshore anglers seeking trophy fish.
- ✓16-hour canyon expeditions
- ✓60-70 miles offshore
- ✓Trophy tuna and marlin
Target Species
Cape May Lady
Party Boat
A comfortable party boat offering affordable fishing trips in Cape May Harbor and Delaware Bay. Great for beginners and families looking for a relaxed fishing experience.
- ✓Affordable family fishing
- ✓Delaware Bay and harbor fishing
- ✓Great for beginners
Target Species
Porgy IV
Party Boat
A classic Cape May party boat focusing on bottom fishing for sea bass, porgies, and fluke. Consistent catches and experienced crew make this a local favorite.
- ✓Bottom fishing specialists
- ✓Consistent sea bass catches
- ✓Local favorite
Target Species
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Booking Tips
When to Book
- • Weekends & Holidays: Book 2-4 weeks ahead
- • Peak Season (June-Sept): Book early
- • Canyon Trips: Weather-dependent, stay flexible
- • Fall Striper Run: Prime dates book fast
What to Bring
- • Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- • Layers (it's cooler offshore)
- • Seasickness medication if prone
- • Cooler for your catch (or pay for cleaning)
- • Cash for tips (15-20% is customary)
Know What's Biting First
Check our seasonal calendar to see which species are in season before booking your trip.