CAPE MAY BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Night Offshore: 80–100 Miles to the Edge of the Continental Shelf for Whales, Pelagics, and Deep‑water Surprises
An overnight voyage aboard the American Star that pushes 80–100 miles into Atlantic deep water to search for marine mammals, pelagic birds and other oceanic life—this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.
A Night Offshore: 80–100 Miles to the Edge of the Continental Shelf for Whales, Pelagics, and Deep‑water Surprises.
Departing Cape May after dark, the American Star runs 80–100 miles offshore to the edge of the continental shelf—into 6,000‑foot water—so passengers can watch for whales, dolphins, pelagic birds and a range of open‑ocean life in conditions best seen at first light. Experienced marine mammal and pelagic bird naturalists lead the trip, which includes overnight accommodations on deck and in the cabin.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Roll Call of Open‑Ocean Species
This voyage targets deep‑water species: humpback, fin, minke and right whales; sperm, pilot and beaked whales; a wide suite of dolphins; shearwaters, jaegers, gannets and numerous petrels; plus oceanic sunfish, sea turtles and a variety of sharks.
Night Transit, First‑Light Searching and Chumming for Pelagics
The boat sails in the evening so the search reaches deep water at dawn; while offshore a pelagic bird naturalist and crew chum to attract sea birds and create prime photo opportunities.
Overnight Aboard the American Star
The 100‑foot American Star provides cabin seating, shaded deck areas and indoor benches; sleeping on padded benches, outdoor benches or floor space is typical, so passengers are encouraged to bring sleeping bags.
What the day feels like
What the Trip Feels Like
You board in the evening and head out to sea for a long overnight transit. The quiet of the night passage gives way to a busy dawn as naturalists scan the horizon and decks fill with pelagic birds attracted by chum. Expect extended periods of searching in deep water, close‑up views of surface animals when sightings occur, and the practical realities of sleeping aboard between watches.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is a 12‑hour overnight voyage.
Bring a sleeping bag for overnight rest on padded benches or floor space; bring any food or drink you require for the extended trip; motion‑sickness remedies or bands are recommended if you are susceptible.
Boarding occurs in order of reservation for an evening departure; the American Star has a full galley and bar, four restrooms and shaded indoor cabin space—plan for a longer day at sea.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Is there parking available onsite?
Yes—free parking is available onsite in the designated Whale Watch parking lot and an attendant will direct you.
Are there bathrooms on the boat?
Yes—the American Star is equipped with four restrooms onboard.
Are food and drinks available onboard?
Yes—there is a full galley, bar and gift shop that accept cash or credit, but you should bring any food or drink you require for the extended trip.
Do I need to wear a life‑jacket onboard?
No—life‑jackets are onboard for every passenger and are used for emergency purposes only; the U.S. Coast Guard annually inspects all safety equipment and the captain provides a safety briefing.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility depends on tide conditions; standard manual wheelchairs can be lifted onboard by mates, but power wheelchairs cannot be accommodated.
Will I get seasick on this cruise?
The American Star is 100 feet long and very stable in Atlantic conditions, but if you are susceptible to motion sickness, the operator recommends remedies like Dramamine, Bonine or Sea Bands, which are available at the dock.
Will the boat be crowded?
Though the American Star seats over 250 passengers in typical sightseeing service, this extended overnight cruise is drastically limited in capacity to allow plenty of room for sleeping accommodations.