Whale Dolphin and Bird Watching Ecotour Cruise

Explore Cape May’s Marine Wildlife on an Educational Ecotour

The Whale Dolphin and Bird Watching Ecotour Cruise in Cape May, USA offers a rewarding mix of wildlife spotting and scientific education. Priced at $50 per person, this 3-hour adventure is organized by the Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center. The tour departs from Schellenger Landing at 1:30 pm, with most bookings made about two weeks in advance, making it accessible for those planning ahead.

What makes this cruise stand out is its focus on science-based education, led by marine biologists and research interns from around the world. Visitors can expect guaranteed marine mammal sightings, including dolphins, humpback whales, and even critical endangered species like the Right Whale. The tour also offers an interactive touch tank with live local sea creatures, enriching the experience beyond simple sightseeing.

This tour is suitable for a broad range of travelers thanks to its most travelers can participate policy and near public transportation access. However, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard, and the weather conditions influence whether the trip proceeds or is canceled for safety.

Key Points

• Inclusive marine wildlife experience with guaranteed sightings of dolphins, whales, and seabirds
• Led by expert marine biologists and research interns providing a science-based educational experience
• Interactive touch tank with live local sea creatures enhances learning
• Affordable price of $50 for a 3-hour eco-friendly cruise
• Tour departs from Schellenger Landing in Cape May and is booked 14 days in advance on average
• Most activities are accessible and suitable for a wide audience

Departure Point and Schedule in Cape May

The tour starts at Rt-109 at Schellenger Landing in Lower Township, NJ. Travelers meet at 1:30 pm and can expect the cruise to last approximately 3 hours. The meeting point provides easy access for visitors arriving via public transportation or with parking options included in the tour price.

The itinerary begins with shoreline dolphin spotting, focusing on Coastal Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins. After this initial phase, the vessel heads 3-15 miles offshore where the chance to observe migratory Baleen Whales increases. The cruise is designed to maximize wildlife sightings, with research and educational interactions integrated throughout.

Searching for Dolphins Along the Shoreline

The first part of the cruise focuses on dolphin sightings along the Cape May shoreline. Coastal Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins are frequently seen in these waters, and sightings of dolphin calves are also common. The shoreline search adds an exciting start to the trip, offering close-up views of these intelligent marine mammals.

Because this initial segment takes place near the coast, it provides an accessible and relaxed way to begin the experience. The crew’s knowledge ensures that everyone gets a good chance to spot these playful animals early on, setting the tone for the offshore adventure ahead.

Venturing Offshore for Baleen Whales and More

After the shoreline segment, the vessel departs 3 to 15 miles offshore to seek out migratory Baleen Whales, including Humpback, Fin, and Minke Whales. There’s also the possibility of spotting critically endangered Right Whales during the season, which makes this part of the cruise especially meaningful.

The offshore journey provides opportunities to see various seabirds like Wilsons Storm Petrels, Jaegers, Shearwaters, and American Bald Eagles. The bird-watching component is enhanced by the marine naturalist’s insights, helping guests identify seasonal species such as Osprey, Brown Pelicans, Oystercatchers, and Cormorants. The chance to observe sharks like Hammerhead, Dusky, Spinner, or Great White adds further excitement.

Encountering Sea Turtles and Oceanic Sunfish

Among the many marine species, the tour boasts sightings of sea turtles such as Loggerhead, Leatherback, and Green turtles. The Oceanic Sunfish or Mola Mola may also be encountered, providing unique photo opportunities. These sightings underscore the biodiversity thriving in the waters off Cape May.

The chance to see stingrays, including Cow-nosed and Manta rays, further diversifies the marine life observed on this tour. The knowledgeable guides help identify these creatures, making each sighting an educational moment.

The Interactive Touch Tank and Educational Highlights

An essential part of the tour is the hands-on touch tank experience. Led by research interns, this interactive station showcases live local sea creatures, allowing guests to learn about marine life directly. This scientific educational interaction sets this cruise apart from typical wildlife tours, providing a science-based perspective on the animals encountered.

Guests also benefit from guidance by marine biologists, who explain the behavior, habitat, and conservation status of various species. This focus on education helps deepen understanding of marine ecosystems and the importance of protecting these animals.

Accessibility and Family-Friendly Features

Most travelers can participate in this family-friendly cruise, as it requires no particular physical effort. The service animals are permitted onboard, and the near public transportation access makes it convenient for visitors staying in Cape May.

The tour’s small group size, with a maximum of 149 travelers, ensures a comfortable experience. The maximum group size helps facilitate better wildlife viewing and more personal interaction with the guides.

Weather, Cancellations, and Booking Tips

The tour requires good weather to operate smoothly. If canceled due to poor weather, travelers are offered a different date or a full refund. The free cancellation policy applies if canceled at least 24 hours in advance; cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are non-refundable.

Most bookings are made about two weeks in advance, reflecting the popularity of this eco-tour. Since the tour includes parking fees and guidance, the value for money is high, especially given the guaranteed marine mammal sightings.

Comparing Similar Tours in Cape May

This cruise shares similarities with other wildlife watching experiences in Cape May, such as whale and dolphin-watching cruises and birding excursions. However, the science-based educational aspect and interactive touch tank are distinguishing features.

Additional options include sunset safaris, dinner cruises, and birding trips like the Osprey tour. The $50 price point and 3-hour duration make this cruise a practical choice for those seeking value and educational enrichment.

Final Thoughts on the Whale Dolphin and Bird Watching Ecotour

The Whale Dolphin and Bird Watching Ecotour Cruise offers a well-rounded, educational wildlife experience in Cape May. Its focus on research-led guiding and interactive learning makes it memorable beyond just sightings. Expect dolphins, whales, and diverse seabird species, all within a comfortable and accessible setting.

While weather conditions can influence the trip, the guaranteed sightings and informative guides ensure most participants leave with a deeper appreciation for marine life. This tour appeals most to those interested in learning about ocean ecosystems while enjoying a relaxing cruise in beautiful coastal waters.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for most ages, especially because it involves no strenuous activity.

What are the main species I can expect to see?
You can see dolphins, Baleen whales like Humpback and Fin whales, sea turtles, and seabirds such as Osprey and Pelicans.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours.

What is included in the price?
The price includes parking fees, a marine biologist-guided tour, guaranteed marine mammal sightings, and the interactive touch tank experience.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are food and drinks available?
Food and drinks are not included but can be purchased onboard from the galley, bar, or gift shop.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 149 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Does the tour operate in all weather conditions?
No, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility challenges?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is accessible, but specific mobility details are not provided.

How far offshore does the cruise go?
The vessel typically heads 3-15 miles offshore to find whales and seabirds.

Are service animals allowed onboard?
Yes, service animals are permitted.