Grand Lighthouse Tour from Cape May: Delaware Bay Lighthouse Cruise and History
Board the Cape May Whale Watcher for a six-hour cruise through Delaware Bay and pass seven historic lighthouses. This narrated tour combines maritime history, coastal geology, and wildlife viewing with breakfast and lunch included.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring your voucher
You must present your booking voucher at the ticket booth to receive a boarding pass before departure.
Prepare for wind and spray
Dress in windproof layers and bring a waterproof outer layer—the deck is exposed and temperatures shift on the water.
Prevent seasickness
If you tend to get seasick, take medication beforehand or use acupressure bands; the tour lasts about six hours in open water.
Pack binoculars and camera
Binoculars bring distant lighthouses and seabirds into detail; a fast shutter and lens between 24–200mm will capture both architecture and wildlife.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Look back toward Cape May harbor for classic waterfront angles used in maritime painting and photography
- •Ask the crew about lesser-known channel markers and small wartime fortifications visible along the route
Wildlife
- •Harbor seal
- •Osprey
Conservation Note
The bay’s shifting shoals and sensitive bird habitats require low-impact viewing; follow crew guidance to avoid disturbing wildlife and support boat operators who follow clean-boat practices.
Delaware Bay’s channel lights were built in the 19th and early 20th centuries to protect major shipping lanes into Philadelphia and nearby ports; many transitioned to automation in the 20th century.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the vessel for unobstructed sunrise or sunset shots
- • Starboard side for best angles on the bay’s mid-channel lights
- • Stern for wider context including wake and shoreline
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Shields against cold spray and changeable coastal winds in spring.
Seasickness medication or bandsEssential
Helps prevent nausea during the extended open-water transit.
Binoculars
Clarifies distant lighthouse details and brings seabirds into view.
Non-slip shoesEssential
Provides secure footing on wet, moving decks regardless of season.
Common Questions
Do you stop and disembark at the lighthouses?
No — the tour passes the lighthouses by boat; there are no landings on these offshore structures.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes — the operator notes wheelchair accessibility for boarding and onboard surfaces, but notify the operator of special requirements in advance.
What meals are provided?
Breakfast and lunch are included on the six-hour cruise; exact menu varies but basic hot and cold options are usually served.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for a full refund at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure; cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.
What should I do if I get seasick?
Take preventative medication before boarding, use acupressure bands, sit midship where motion is least, and face the horizon to reduce symptoms.
How many lighthouses will we see?
The narration covers up to seven historic lighthouses in the Delaware Bay, depending on route and visibility conditions.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Cape May, New Jersey
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Low exertion; able to stand or sit for multiple hours and handle moving on a vessel
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