Sunset Dinner Cruise & Dolphin Watching — Cape May Evening Cruise
Sip a dinner cocktail as dolphins cut through the bay and the sun drops behind Cape May’s skyline. This two-hour cruise pairs restaurant-quality food with reliable wildlife sightings and barrier-island views.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early
Boarding begins 20–30 minutes before departure; arrive early to claim a bow or upper-deck spot for unobstructed views.
Bring Layers
Wind off Delaware Bay chills quickly after sunset — a windbreaker or fleece makes the difference between comfortable and cold.
Motion Sickness Plan
If you get queasy, take a preventive tablet an hour ahead and sit midship where the motion is gentlest.
Binoculars and Camera
A compact telephoto or binoculars will dramatically improve your ability to spot distant dolphins and birds.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Watch the lighthouse silhouette from the starboard bow for a clean profile at sunset
- •Scan the marsh edges near the 1000-acre nature preserve — small coves attract shorebirds and solitary ospreys
Wildlife
- •Atlantic bottlenose dolphins
- •osprey (and occasional bald eagles)
Conservation Note
Operators follow wildlife viewing best practices—keeping distance from animals and avoiding feeding—to reduce disturbance; support local preserves by staying on marked paths and picking up trash.
Cape May developed in the 19th century as one of the nation’s first seaside resorts; its maritime economy shaped local architecture and harbor uses.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow rail for open-water shots
- • Upper deck for panoramic sunsets and lighthouse profiles
- • Near the starboard side for views of the nature preserve
What to Bring
Light windbreaker or fleeceEssential
Spring evenings on the bay are cool and breezy — a shell keeps you warm on deck.
Binoculars
Helps identify distant dolphin pods and shorebirds against the horizon.
Motion-sickness medicationEssential
Useful for anyone prone to seasickness on choppy evenings.
Compact camera with zoom
Captures action shots of breaching dolphins and sunset silhouettes from the rail.
Common Questions
Is dinner included?
Yes — the cruise includes a restaurant-style dinner served onboard; beverages and alcoholic drinks may be available for purchase depending on the operator.
Where do I board the boat?
Boarding is at Miss Chris Marina in Cape May; bring your voucher to the ticket booth to receive a boarding pass.
Are dolphins guaranteed?
No wildlife can be guaranteed, but this area has regular sightings; captains position the vessel in the likeliest feeding zones to increase your chance of a sighting.
Is the vessel wheelchair accessible?
Yes — the listing indicates wheelchair accessibility and stroller-friendly access, though availability of accessible restrooms may vary by vessel.
Can I bring children or infants?
Families are welcome; the cruise is suitable for all ages and strollers are allowed, but children should be supervised on deck rails.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; trips may be canceled for bad weather or insufficient travelers.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Cape May, New Jersey
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; must be able to board a step and move around the cabin/deck.
Ready to Explore Cape May?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now