The 12 Best Dolphin Watching Tours in Cape May
Cape May isn’t just about Victorian charm and sandy beaches; it’s a prime spot to see marine life in action. Its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean makes it ideal for dolphin watching, with pods sometimes numbering in the hundreds. Whether you’re after a quick two-hour trip or a longer adventure with whale sightings, Cape May’s boat tours deliver memorable marine encounters. The diversity of options means you can choose a family-friendly cruise, a sunset adventure, or an educational ecotour—each offering a different way to experience the ocean’s playful dolphins and majestic whales.
Since local guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge, expect informative narration, chances to see dolphins in their natural habitat, and the occasional whale sighting (though not guaranteed). Some tours include snacks, drinks, or even wine tastings at sunset—perfect for turning a day at the beach into a full-day marine adventure. Planning ahead is wise, especially during peak seasons when tours fill quickly.
Quick Overview of Cape May Dolphin Tours
On our list, you’ll find 8 dolphin-focused cruises, ranging from 2 to 3 hours, with prices from $37 to $57 per person. Some tours also include whale sightings, like the Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise from Cape May, which offers a fully narrated 3-hour trip. Others, such as the Cape May: 2-Hour Dolphin Watching Cruise, are shorter and more casual, perfect for those with limited time. Sunset cruises, like Cape May: Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise with Food, combine marine viewing with stunning evening scenery. Eco-tours, such as the Whale Dolphin and Bird Watching Ecotour, focus on wildlife and education, often led by marine biologists.
Below, each tour is detailed to help you find the right fit based on your schedule, budget, and interests.
1. Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise from Cape May
This 3-hour cruise offers a relaxing escape from the beach crowds. Your Captain Jeff takes you into the waters near Cape May, targeting the best spots for whales, dolphins, and porpoises. The fully narrated tour includes live commentary about ocean life and the animals’ habitat, making it both fun and educational. The boat is wheelchair accessible and equipped with bathrooms and a snack bar.
While whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, many travelers report seeing a large number of dolphins along with seabirds. Family-friendly and highly rated at 4.5/5 from nearly 650 reviews, it’s a solid choice for those who want a comfortable, informative experience. One guest noted, “Saw a ton of dolphins and the crew was very knowledgeable.” Expect a memorable day of marine wildlife, with the chance to spot whales if luck is on your side.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, family-friendly cruise that balances wildlife viewing with comfort and education, ideal for those wanting a longer, relaxed trip.
2. Cape May: Cape May Island Sunset Cruise & Dolphin Watching
For about $37, the Sunset Cruise with Dolphin Watching gives you two hours of stunning scenery and marine life. Led by Captain Jeff, this evening tour combines the magic of a colorful sunset with the thrill of spotting dolphins. Guests rave about the included pizza and hot dogs, which make this trip a comfortable, laid-back experience.
The highlight is the sunset views, often accompanied by playful dolphins swimming nearby. The onboard commentary enriches your understanding of Cape May’s natural environment and wildlife. Rated 4.6/5 from over 300 reviews, travelers love the friendly atmosphere and the chance to see dolphins in the golden hour. One reviewer wrote, “The dolphins and sunset were incredible, and the crew was very enthusiastic.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for romantics or families wanting a relaxed evening, combining nature with good food and beautiful scenery.
3. Cape May: 2-Hour Dolphin Watching Cruise
This 2-hour cruise aboard the Cape May Whale Watcher is a quick but engaging way to see dolphins and learn about the area. Starting with a continental breakfast of coffee, donuts, Danish, and juice, it’s a nice way to begin your day. The guide shares insights about Cape May’s Victorian architecture and local wildlife, including dolphins swimming just offshore.
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable crew, with a 4.7/5 rating from 109 reviews, noting how many dolphins they saw—often dozens. One guest said, “Thank you for an amazing experience,” reflecting the overall value. The shorter duration makes it ideal if you want a quick coastal adventure, especially in the morning.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a compact, educational, dolphin-focused trip that combines sightseeing with light breakfast.
4. Cape May: Jersey Shore Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise
This 3-hour tour ventures into Delaware Bay and the Atlantic, offering the chance to see both whales and dolphins. Your captain provides a guided narration about marine life, with sightings including humpback whales and Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The boat’s route covers scenic water vistas and historic waterfronts, making it suitable for those interested in both wildlife and local scenery.
Rated 4.4/5 by 178 reviews, many mention seeing dolphins and even a whale. One reviewer shared, “We saw dolphins and a whale—an amazing trip!” It’s slightly pricier at $57 but delivers a comprehensive marine experience. The tour is especially suited for wildlife enthusiasts who appreciate a longer, more educational journey.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting both whale and dolphin sightings in a scenic setting, this tour provides an immersive experience with a knowledgeable crew.
5. Cape May: Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise with Food
This 2-hour evening cruise blends dolphin watching with a spectacular sunset. For $40, you’ll enjoy views of Cape May’s waterfront homes, the lighthouse, and chances to see Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The tour includes pizza and hot dogs, making it a relaxed, snack-filled experience.
Rated 4.8/5 with 42 reviews, many mention the “beautiful sunset” and the abundance of dolphins. One guest described it as “Better than expected,” with a large pod of dolphins and a whale feeding nearby. This trip is well-suited for those looking to combine marine wildlife with the charm of Cape May at dusk.
Bottom Line: A perfect choice for sunset lovers and families wanting a casual, food-inclusive cruise with dolphin sightings.
6. Whale Dolphin and Bird Watching Ecotour Cruise
This 3-hour eco-tour stands out by blending marine wildlife with bird watching and education. Led by a marine biologist, the cruise searches for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins along the shoreline and migratory whales offshore. The onboard research team provides a hands-on experience, including a touch tank with live sea creatures.
Rated a perfect 5/5 from 20 reviews, travelers highlight the informative nature and the chance to see humpback whales and dolphins. One said, “We saw lots of dolphins and a whale—an unforgettable trip.” It’s ideal for those who want a deeper understanding of marine ecology and enjoy interactive experiences.
Bottom Line: An educational, science-based tour perfect for families and wildlife enthusiasts wanting close-up encounters and expert insights.
7. Cape May: Weekend Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise
This 2-hour cruise offers a weekend adventure with dolphin sightings and a continental breakfast included. It departs during the weekend, making it easy to fit into a Cape May getaway. The tour covers coastal sights like Victorian homes and the lighthouse, with many reviews mentioning the “professional, personable staff” and “amazing dolphin viewings.”
Rated 4.6/5 from 60 reviews, it’s praised for its friendly crew and the chance to see dolphins swim alongside the boat. One reviewer appreciated the “fun and informative” ride and plans to return.
Bottom Line: Ideal for weekend visitors seeking a quick, scenic adventure with dolphin sightings and breakfast.
8. Dolphin Watching around Cape May
This 2-hour tour provides close encounters with dolphins, pod sizes from five to 500, depending on conditions. The captain narrates facts about Cape May and dolphin behavior as you cruise near the beaches and lighthouses. The tour is popular for its flexibility, covering many key coastal sights and wildlife hotspots.
Rated 4.5/5 from 56 reviews, many mention the excitement of seeing large pods and the knowledgeable narration. One reviewer said, “We saw over 100 dolphins and the crew was fantastic.” It’s a good pick for those wanting a lively, educational dolphin tour with scenic views.
Bottom Line: A dynamic, informative cruise suited for wildlife lovers and those eager to see large dolphin pods.
9. Dolphin and Bird Watching Ecotour Cruise
This 2-hour eco-tour is led by a marine biologist, focusing on dolphins and birdlife. It’s a rare chance to see Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and a variety of bird species like ospreys. The small group size and educational approach make it stand out. Many reviews note how the guide’s knowledge enhances the experience.
Rated 5/5 from 10 reviews, participants especially appreciated the live sea creatures in the touch tank. One said, “Saw many pods of dolphins and learned a lot about the local environment.” Perfect for eco-minded travelers or families with kids interested in science.
Bottom Line: An intimate, educational tour ideal for those wanting to combine marine and birdwatching with expert-led insights.
10. Cape May: Dolphin and Bird Watching Cruise
This 2-hour cruise offers a chance to spot dolphins and enjoy scenic views of Cape May’s coastline. The onboard guide provides history and natural facts, enhancing your understanding of the area’s wildlife. The cruise includes a complimentary continental breakfast, making it a comfortable, relaxed outing.
Rated 4.7/5 from 6 reviews, travelers praise the friendly crew and the opportunity to see multiple marine species. One reviewer called it “a great way to spend a morning,” especially for families or casual visitors.
Bottom Line: Good for a quick, educational, and scenic dolphin-viewing experience with light breakfast included.
11. Cape May: Sunset Dolphin Cruise with Optional Wine Tastings
This 2-hour evening cruise is perfect for winding down with dolphins in the sunset. For $58, you can enjoy not only dolphin sightings but also a tasting of three wines from a local vineyard, paired with cheese. The cruise passes by Cape May Point Lighthouse and historic homes, adding a charming backdrop.
Rated 4.3/5 from 6 reviews, travelers enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and the chance to see dolphins while sipping wine. One wrote, “The sunset and wine were a perfect end to our day.”
Bottom Line: A great romantic or adult-focused option combining marine wildlife with wine tasting and sunset views.
12. Cape May: Scenic Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise
This 3-hour trip takes you into the Atlantic in search of baleen whales and dolphins. The route explores diverse coastal sights and wildlife, with an emphasis on education from the guide. While some reviews mention no whale sightings, many still praise the majestic dolphins and the scenic journey.
Rated 3.7/5 from 17 reviews, it’s a longer, more in-depth outing, suited for those deeply interested in marine species and coastal scenery. One reviewer noted, “Saw whales and dolphins—an incredible experience.”
Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in a longer, comprehensive marine trip with opportunities for whale sightings.
How to Choose Your Dolphin Watching Adventure
Picking the right tour depends on your time availability, budget, and interests. If you want a relaxed, family-friendly experience with lots of dolphins, the Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise from Cape May is a strong choice. For those seeking a sunset experience, the Sunset Dolphin Watching Cruise with Food combines wildlife with scenic views and casual dining.
If you’re interested in a more educational trip, the Whale Dolphin and Bird Watching Ecotour offers a guided, science-based experience with close-up animal encounters. Budget travelers may prefer the shorter 2-hour dolphin cruises, while those wanting an evening activity might opt for the Sunset Dolphin Cruise with Optional Wine Tasting.
Booking early during peak season (summer months) ensures you secure a spot, especially for popular weekend cruises. Check each tour’s availability and consider your interests—wildlife, scenery, food, or education—to pick the best fit.
In summary, Cape May offers a variety of dolphin watching tours, from quick trips to full-day adventures that include whale sightings and eco-education. For families, the Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise provides a relaxed, wildlife-filled experience, while the Sunset Cruise offers a romantic evening with scenic views. Eco-tours like the Whale Dolphin and Bird Watching Ecotour are perfect for those wanting a more scientific perspective.
No matter your choice, Cape May’s waters promise lively dolphin pods and the chance to spot whales—so booking early and choosing the right trip can turn an ordinary vacation into a marine adventure you’ll remember.