Charter Boats & Party Boats
Browse 17 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)
- • $50–135 per person as recorded on the boats we list, not a live quote
- • Fish with other anglers (20-80+ people)
- • Great for beginners and families
- • Fixed schedule departures
- • Target: Sea bass, fluke, blues, stripers
Private Charters
- • $750–4,500 for the whole boat, as recorded on the boats we list, not a live quote
- • Custom trip for your group (up to 6)
- • Choose your target species
- • Experienced captain's guidance
- • Flexible scheduling
- • Target: Tuna, shark, trophy stripers
Torn between a 4-hour and an 8-hour trip? Half day vs full day, compared — real costs, species in range, and which length fits your crew.
First-Timer's Guide
Never been on a fishing charter? Here's everything you need to know for a successful first trip.
What to Expect: Trip Timeline
Prepare for time on the water
Check the forecast, pack layers and ask a pharmacist or clinician about motion-sickness products if needed. Follow the product directions.
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)
Ask the crew whether fish cleaning is offered and what it costs.
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.
- ✓Motion-sickness product, if you use oneAsk a pharmacist or clinician and follow the product directions.
- ✓Cash for tipsATMs aren't on boats.
- ✓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.
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Beating Seasickness
What helps on the water if you are prone to seasickness. For medication, ask a pharmacist or clinician and follow the product directions.
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.
Prone to seasickness? Calm inshore & bay trips are easiest — find one
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Tipping Guide
Check whether the price is per person or for the boat. Confirm tackle, bait, equipment rental, fish cleaning, gratuities and any extra charges with the operator.
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.
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Choosing Your Port
What the boats we list at each port run. A port with more listings here is not necessarily the larger fleet.
Belmar
Party boats listed: 2
Private charters listed: 2
Species on those listings: Striped Bass, Bluefish, Sea Bass, Fluke, Tuna, Mahi-Mahi, Shark, Wahoo, Marlin
Point Pleasant Beach
Party boats listed: 2
Private charters listed: 3
Species on those listings: Striped Bass, Bluefish, Fluke, Sea Bass, Tautog, Tuna, Shark, Mahi-Mahi
Barnegat Light
Party boats listed: 1
Private charters listed: 0
Species on those listings: Striped Bass, Bluefish, Fluke, Sea Bass, Tautog
Atlantic City
Party boats listed: 1
Private charters listed: 1
Species on those listings: Fluke, Weakfish, Bluefish, Striped Bass, Tuna, Shark, Mahi-Mahi
Cape May
Party boats listed: 1
Private charters listed: 1
Species on those listings: Striped Bass, Bluefish, Fluke, Sea Bass, Weakfish, Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi-Mahi, Marlin, Shark
Wildwood
Party boats listed: 2
Private charters listed: 0
Species on those listings: Fluke, Sea Bass, Bluefish, Striped Bass, Weakfish, Croaker
Stay Near the Docks
Book accommodations near your departure port. Early morning charters start at 5-6am - stay close to avoid the long drive.
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Belmar Fishing Charters
Party boats and private charters, including the SS Miss Belmar and the Canyon Eagle boats.
SS Miss Belmar
Party Boat
A 125-foot party boat sailing from Belmar Marina, the SS Miss Belmar fishes for striped bass, bluefish, sea bass, and fluke.
- ✓125-foot party boat
- ✓Full galley service
Target Species
Prices checked Nov 2026.
Golden Eagle
Party Boat - Capt. Rich Falcone
Capt. Rich Falcone
Sportfishing operation out of Belmar Marina, targeting trophy fish year-round.
Party and charter boat captained by Rich Falcone, with full galley service and modern electronics.
- ✓Fishing electronics
- ✓Full galley service
- ✓Experienced captain
Target Species
Prices checked Nov 2026.
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
Prices checked Nov 2026.
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
Prices checked Nov 2026.
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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 has underwater hull lights and a heated and air-conditioned cabin. Located at 59 Inlet Drive.
- ✓Family operation since 1949
- ✓Underwater hull lights
- ✓Heated/AC cabin
Target Species
Prices checked Nov 2026.
Queen Mary
Party Boat - Capt. David Riback
Capt. David Riback
Experienced party-boat captain running daily open-boat trips from Point Pleasant Beach.
An 85-foot party boat captained by David Riback, sailing daily open-boat trips at 6:30 AM. Currently operates at 50% capacity for passenger comfort.
- ✓Operates at 50% capacity for comfort
- ✓Experienced Captain David Riback
- ✓85-foot vessel
Target Species
Prices checked Nov 2026.
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
Prices checked Nov 2026.
SeaOwl Fishing Charters
Private Charter - Capt. Christopher Dos Santos Jr.
Capt. Christopher Dos Santos Jr.
Third-generation captain specializing in bluefin tuna; documented catches up to 550 lbs.
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
Private Charter
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
Prices checked Nov 2026.
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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
Capt. Frank Camarda
Helms an 80-foot LBI party boat targeting striped bass, fluke, and sea bass.
An 80-foot party boat captained by Frank Camarda, departing from Beach Haven. It runs open-boat trips for Long Beach Island anglers.
- ✓80-foot vessel
- ✓Captain Frank Camarda
- ✓LBI party boat
Target Species
Prices checked Nov 2026.
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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 runs back bay party-boat trips in Atlantic City.
- ✓Calm bay waters
Target Species
Prices checked Nov 2026.
Moover Fishing Adventures
Private Charter - Capt. Rob
Capt. Rob
Versatile operation from bay trips to 36-hour canyon runs; specializes in shark, tuna, and mahi offshore.
Captain Rob offers fishing options from back bay trips to 16-18 hour offshore trips.
- ✓Bay trips to 36-hour canyon expeditions
- ✓Versatile operations
- ✓Year-round availability
Target Species
Prices checked Nov 2026.
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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 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 vessel
- ✓Great for families
- ✓Sunset trips available
Target Species
Prices checked Nov 2026.
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
Prices checked Nov 2026.
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Wildwood Fishing Charters
Five Mile Beach party boats and back-bay charters. The Starlight Fleet headboats plus private trips for fluke, sea bass, and offshore runs.
Starlight Fleet
Party Boat
The Wildwoods' party boat operation. Large vessel accommodating groups for fluke, sea bass, and bluefish trips. Family-friendly with experienced crew.
- ✓85-foot vessel
- ✓Family-friendly atmosphere
- ✓Experienced crew
- ✓Prime Wildwood fishing grounds
Target Species
Prices checked Nov 2026.
Cape May Lady
Party Boat
Party boat sailing from Wildwood with morning, afternoon and evening four-hour trips, plus private charters.
- ✓Three four-hour trips daily
- ✓Private charters available
Target Species
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Booking Tips
When to Book
- • Canyon Trips: Weather-dependent, stay flexible
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
Know What's Biting First
Check our seasonal calendar to see which species are in season before booking your trip.
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