If spotting a whale is on your bucket list, then you don’t have to go far to spot the magnificent mammals—NJ whale watching is a thing, and we’re so here for it. The Humpback, Fin, Minke, and Northern Right marine mammals make their way through our ocean waters with peak viewing from June through September. And when you go whale watching in NJ, you’ll be out on the water, where you’ll feel the ocean spray while catching a sighting and other sea life in their natural habitat. So, grab your binoculars and book a trip for the fam—here are 5 boat tours where you can see these incredible ocean creatures. And if you are looking for a different kind of boat tour, don’t miss pirate adventures in NJ. (featured photo credit: istock/Piter1977)
The Best NJ Whale Watching Trips
Seastreak
Tours run from July 11-September 19, 2026
The Seastreak ferry takes you on a three-hour round-trip from Highlands to a whale-watching spot where the Hudson, Raritan, Navesink, and Shrewsbury rivers flow together. This area is known for attracting fish that whales love to eat, so it’s the perfect spot to catch a glimpse of these magnificent mammals. The ferry has spacious seating across multiple decks and is air-conditioned. A full-stocked bar with drinks and snacks is available.
Cost: $59 (adults), $54 (seniors 65 and older), $34 (children younger than 12)
326 Shore Drive, Highlands, NJ 07732
Bill McKim’s Jersey Shore Whale Watch Tour
Tours run from April to December
This popular whale-watching tour departs from the Belmar Marina and offers a trip up to three hours on its 120-foot boat to a spot 2 miles off the coast. They pride themselves on having a 90 percent success rate in finding whales, and if you don’t see them, you can come back for a free cruise. You may also see dolphins, sharks, and stingrays. You can BYO food and drinks, too.
Cost: $69 (adults), $60 (seniors 65 and older or active military), $45 (full-time high school or college students with valid ID), $50 (children), $15 (infants 2 and younger)
905 NJ-35, Belmar, NJ 07719
Cape May Whale Watcher
Tours run from March to December
The name says it all—the Cape May Whale Watcher offers two tours geared toward spotting Humpback, Fin, and Minke whales in the Atlantic around the Cape May shoreline. During the week, there’s a three-hour narrated tour aboard a ship with two decks for viewing and heated and air-conditioned cabins. The Weekend Special offers a complimentary breakfast as you look out for whales, dolphins, sea birds, and more.
Cost: The Whale & Dolphin Cruise – $55 (adults), $40 (ages 7–12), children age 6 and younger (with each paid adult) are only 1 cent, and $50 (senior, veteran, first responder, student with ID). The Weekend Special – $50 (adult), $30 (ages 7–12), children age 6 and younger (with each paid adult) are only 1 cent, and $45 (senior, veteran, first responder, student with ID).
1218 Wilson Drive, Cape May, NJ 08204
Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center
Tours run from March to December
Hop aboard this 100-foot ship with large exterior decks, a heated interior, a semi-enclosed seating area on the upper deck, and food and drinks for purchase. The three-hour tour includes an onboard touch tank filled with local sea creatures for hands-on learning. If your crew doesn’t spot any marine mammals during your trip, your next trip is free.
Cost: $50 (adults), $35 (ages 7–12), $20 (extra child), and free for children 6 and younger (with each paying adult).
1231 Route 109 (South Jersey Marina), Cape May, NJ 08204
Miss Belmar
Tours run from April through October
The SS Miss Belmar, part of the Miss Belmar fleet, sails on an excursion out of Belmar Marina. Join Captain Alan as you search for sea life aboard this 125-foot ship with a sun deck, air-conditioned cabin, and more. You can buy food and drinks on board, T-shirts, and hats to commemorate your NJ whale-watching excursion.
Cost: $49 (age 13 and older), $45 (seniors and military), $40 for children (12 and younger)
905 New Jersey 35, Belmar, NJ 07719
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