Cape May: Weekend Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise

If you’re looking to add a splash of fun and a bit of nature’s magic to your trip to Cape May, a dolphin and whale watching cruise might be just the ticket. We’ve checked out this popular tour, and while we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture. It’s a laid-back, family-friendly way to enjoy the water, spot wildlife, and learn a bit about the area’s history—all in just a couple of hours.

One of the things that really stands out about this experience is how accessible it is—attending costs only around $37 a person, making it a reasonable way to spend a morning. Plus, the chance to see dolphins swim right alongside the boat is genuinely exciting and feels like a special moment that sticks with you long after. That said, keep in mind that the “complimentary breakfast” isn’t a full meal—more like pastries and coffee—so if you’re expecting a hearty breakfast, you might want to eat beforehand.

This tour appeals mostly to those who love marine life, scenic views, and a relaxed pace. It’s suitable for all ages, and if you enjoy being out on the water and learning about local wildlife and Cape May’s historic waterfront, you’ll probably find this to be a worthwhile trip.

Key Points

• Short and sweet: It’s a 2-hour cruise, perfect for fitting into a busy day or as a gentle introduction to Cape May’s waters.
• Wildlife spotting: Dolphins are the star of the show, often jumping out of the water and swimming alongside the boat.
• Informative guide: Expect a knowledgeable tour guide to narrate about dolphins, local history, and landmarks like Victorian homes and the lighthouse.
• Affordable: At $37 per person, it offers a good value for a memorable marine experience.
• Breakfast included: A light continental breakfast with coffee and juice is offered—great for a quick start, but don’t expect a full meal.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, with a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easy for kids and adults alike.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Cape May Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise

This cruise is designed as a laid-back, informative trip around Cape May’s waterfront, with a focus on marine life and scenic views. When you arrive at the red Gift Shop building at Miss Chris Marina, you’ll present your voucher and get ready to set sail. The boat itself is equipped with safety gear, making it suitable for everyone, including children and those with mobility considerations—since it’s wheelchair accessible.

The cruise lasts approximately two hours, usually scheduled in the morning, making it a perfect way to start the day. Once onboard, you’ll be greeted by a professional guide who will narrate the voyage, sharing insights about the area’s Victorian architecture, historic waterfront buildings, and, of course, the dolphins.

The Journey and Views

As the boat departs, you’ll cruise along Cape May’s coastline, passing by iconic Victorian homes and the Cape May Lighthouse. The waters are lively with activity, and your guide will share stories about the area’s history and ecology. The highlight for many travelers is when dolphins appear—sometimes jumping out of the water, riding waves, or swimming right alongside the boat. Several reviewers, including Stacy, mention how many dolphins they saw, with one noting, “We saw so many dolphins and the pastries were delicious.”

The views are genuinely stunning, especially as the boat glides past historic buildings and the lighthouse, offering perfect photo opportunities. The gentle pace of the cruise allows you to soak in the scenery and keep an eye out for marine life.

Wildlife Encounters

Dolphins are the main attraction, and the local population is known to come close to the boat, providing an up-close experience that feels almost surreal. Some reviewers mention that dolphins often swim alongside the boat, jumping out of the water, which adds a sense of excitement and wonder. In one review, Ingrid says, “Great guide and friendly staff. Always great to see and learn about dolphins!”

While whales aren’t explicitly promised, a few reviews mention the possibility of seeing larger marine mammals, including whales—though that seems more like a bonus than a guaranteed sighting. The guide’s narration enriches the experience, providing context about dolphins’ habitat and behavior, making the encounter both fun and educational.

Food and Refreshments

The included continental breakfast is quite modest—mainly pastries, coffee, and juice—so don’t expect a hearty meal. It’s a nice touch for those wanting to start their day with a light snack and some caffeine. As Chris noted in his review, “It was danish and coffee,” which aligns with the description. If you’re hungry or craving a full breakfast, you might prefer to eat beforehand.

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Practical Details and Comfort

Parking at Miss Chris Marina is straightforward, and the check-in process is smooth—just show your voucher at the designated spot. The tour is suitable for all ages, making it a good choice for families or groups with kids. The boat’s seating is comfortable, and the entire experience is kept relaxed and friendly. Weather considerations are important—bring weather-appropriate clothing, especially if it’s a breezy or cooler day.

Value for Money

At just $37 per person, this tour offers a surprisingly good deal considering what you get—stunning views, wildlife encounters, and a bit of local history, all in two hours. Previous reviews rave about how friendly and professional the crew is, with many mentioning how much they enjoyed the guide’s narration. It’s a relaxed, fun way to spend part of your day without breaking the bank.

Authentic Experiences and Tips from Travelers

From reviews, it’s clear that many find this trip to be an unexpectedly delightful experience. Sandra mentions, “The staff was excellent—professional, personable, and helpful,” which makes a big difference on a boat tour. Ting, who was initially nervous due to anxiety, found the experience calming, citing the ocean breeze and the guide’s humor as helping her relax.

The opportunity to see dolphins swim so close, often jumping out of the water, consistently emerges as the top highlight. Stacy’s comment about the “many dolphins” she saw underscores just how engaging the wildlife encounters can be.

A few reviewers also noted the professionalism of the crew and the guide’s ability to make the experience both informative and fun. One, Liz, describes it as an “amazing experience” suitable for families, emphasizing the friendly atmosphere.

Downsides and Considerations

While most reviews are glowing, it’s worth mentioning that the breakfast isn’t a full meal. Some reviewers, like Kimya, felt the description was a little misleading, as it’s mainly coffee and pastries—not a full breakfast. Keep that expectation in check.

Weather can also impact the experience—if it’s cold, windy, or rainy, the trip might be less enjoyable. It’s a good idea to dress in weather-appropriate clothing and bring layers. Also, since sightings of dolphins are wildlife—meaning unpredictable—you might not see them every trip. But based on reviews, many guests do see plenty of dolphins, sometimes quite close.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, family-friendly adventure that combines scenic views with wildlife viewing, this cruise ticks those boxes. It’s ideal if you’re interested in marine animals and want a gentle, educational boat ride without any strenuous activity. It’s also perfect for travelers on a budget, as it offers good value for the experience.

However, if you’re expecting a gourmet breakfast or a whale-filled expedition, this tour might not meet those specific desires. It’s best suited for those who appreciate casual, informative outings where the main focus is wildlife and scenery.

The Cape May Weekend Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise is a solid choice for anyone wanting a calming, scenic, and wildlife-filled morning. The combination of a knowledgeable guide, close-up dolphin encounters, and scenic waterfront views creates a memorable way to experience Cape May’s marine environment without fuss.

The relatively low price makes it accessible, and the positive reviews suggest most guests find it worth their time. Just remember to manage expectations about the breakfast and be prepared for the weather. If you’re a nature lover or simply looking for a peaceful way to enjoy the coast, this cruise could very well become a highlight of your Cape May trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for all ages, making it a good option for families or groups with kids.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, usually scheduled in the morning, which fits nicely into a day of sightseeing.

What’s included in the price?
You get a guided 2-hour cruise, a continental breakfast with coffee and juice, safety equipment, and parking at Miss Chris Marina.

Are whales guaranteed to be seen?
Not necessarily. While dolphins are the main highlight and are often seen, whales are not specifically promised.

What should I bring?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, a passport or ID, and possibly a camera for photos.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, which is great for those with mobility needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility.

Is the breakfast substantial?
No, it’s more like pastries and coffee—so plan to eat beforehand if you’re hungry.

Where do I meet for the tour?
At the red Gift Shop building at Miss Chris Marina—present your GetYourGuide voucher there.

If you’re after a peaceful, wildlife-focused adventure that offers plenty of chances to spot dolphins and learn about Cape May’s waters and history, this cruise is worth considering. It’s a straightforward, enjoyable way to spend part of your day, especially if you love being on the water and experiencing nature up close.

You can check availability for your dates here: