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Peak whale watching season is here

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Prime Whale Watching Season on the East Coast: New Jersey’s Best Time to See Whales

October marks the height of whale-watching season along the Jersey Shore, and 2024 has been an outstanding year for humpback whale sightings. Fall whale watching in New Jersey is a spectacle not to be missed, with October and November offering some of the most remarkable encounters with these majestic creatures. For example, on October 6, 2024, we saw eight different humpback whales during our tours, showcasing just how extraordinary this season has been. Whether you’re passionate about wildlife or looking for a unique adventure, now is the perfect time to experience whale watching on the East Coast.

Why Fall is the Best Time for Whale Watching in New Jersey

The fall months along the Jersey Shore are ideal for whale watching due to the humpback whales’ migration patterns. As they journey south from their northern feeding grounds, they pass through New Jersey’s waters, drawn by the abundance of fish, such as menhaden, which are plentiful in the area.

October and November provide excellent conditions for whale watching. The cooler temperatures and calmer seas create a more enjoyable experience, while the whales’ activity reaches its peak. Although summer offers whale sightings, the real action happens in the fall, when you’re likely to witness multiple whales breaching, spouting, and feeding close to the boat.

Recent Whale Sightings: October 2024 Highlights

Our tours on October 6, 2024, demonstrated why fall is the premier season for whale watching. On the 9:30 a.m. tour, we spotted two humpback whales, and the 12:30 p.m. tour exceeded expectations with sightings of six more whales, making it a total of eight individual humpbacks in one day. This level of activity is a clear indicator of the thriving marine life along the Jersey coast during the fall months.

What to Expect on a Jersey Shore Whale Watching Tour

Our Jersey Shore Whale Watch tours operate throughout the fall, with trips on weekends and select weekdays. The Jersey Girl, our spacious two-level vessel, ensures a comfortable and scenic journey. With a heated cabin, full bathrooms, and a snack bar, passengers can stay cozy as temperatures drop. Whether you’re dressed in a T-shirt or a light sweatshirt, you’ll enjoy panoramic ocean views and, of course, close encounters with whales.

Each tour is led by an experienced naturalist who provides fascinating insights into whale behavior, migration patterns, and the surrounding marine ecosystem. Our tours blend education with excitement, making it the perfect adventure for nature lovers and families alike.

Private Chol Hamoed Trips for a Special Experience

For Chol Hamoed, we are offering private whale-watching tours that cater to your group’s needs. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a community event, or a special group adventure, our private trips are a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday in a unique and exciting way. You’ll have exclusive access to the Jersey Girl, ensuring a more intimate experience while enjoying the beauty of the open ocean and, of course, the breathtaking sight of whales in their natural habitat.

Our private tours can be customized for your group, with options for kosher catering and a schedule that fits your holiday plans. It’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy quality time with loved ones while creating unforgettable memories.

Why Choose Jersey Shore Whale Watch?

As the only full-time whale-watching service in the area, Jersey Shore Whale Watch prides itself on offering an all-around enjoyable experience, not just whale sightings. Families, schools, and private groups are welcome, and we offer private charters for special events.

While many of our trips remain nearshore, where whale activity is highest, we also offer occasional ventures into deeper waters for a chance to spot even larger whale species. No two trips are the same, and with our whale sighting guarantee, you’re in for an unforgettable experience every time.

A Record-Breaking Year for Whale Watching

2024 has set new records for whale watching in New Jersey. From the warm summer months to the action-packed fall, our tours have consistently delivered impressive sightings. Favorable weather has allowed us to run trips nearly every weekend, and we expect the whale-watching season to extend through early December.

Plan Your Whale Watching Adventure

Booking your trip with Jersey Shore Whale Watch is simple. Visit our website at Jerseyshorewhalewatch.com or call 732-592-6400 to reserve your spot. With just a few months left in the season, now is the time to see these incredible whales up close. Our tours offer more than just whale sightings—they provide a full day of adventure, with breathtaking views and expert-led commentary.

Stay tuned for our 2025 schedule, including offshore trips to spot larger whale species. If you’re planning ahead, be sure to check our website for these dates and reserve early.

A Fun Adventure for All Ages

Whale watching is a fantastic outing for people of all ages, and we welcome families with children on board the Jersey Girl. Our crew ensures a safe, comfortable, and educational environment, making it a perfect family adventure.

Whether you’re marking a special occasion or seeking a memorable weekend experience, whale watching on the Jersey Shore is a must-do activity. With peak whale-watching season in full swing, don’t miss your chance—call us or visit our website to book your trip today and join us for an unforgettable day at sea.

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Experience why 2024 is one of the best whale-watching seasons yet!

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Mother’s Day Whale Watching trip review New Jersey

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On Mother’s Day morning, under uncertain skies and amidst cancellations from other fishing boats and tour companies, we at Jersey Shore Whale Watch made a bold decision to proceed with our voyage. Many of our guests had traveled great distances—from places as far-flung as Rochester, Binghamton, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and upstate New York. Their anticipation and excitement fueled our commitment to venture out despite the weather.

As we set sail at 12:30 PM, a light drizzle was falling, but by the time we reached the open waters, the drizzle had ceased. Although the ocean presented a choppy welcome for about 20 minutes, it soon calmed, and within moments of the sea settling, we were graced with the presence of an active juvenile humpback whale just off the coast of New Jersey.

For approximately 45 minutes, our guests were treated to a magnificent display: the whale demonstrated its lunch feeding, tail slapping, and fin slapping—truly a remarkable performance that captivated everyone on board. During the trip, we also encountered three different pods of dolphins, which provided additional delight and photo opportunities for our 45 guests.

For those seeking warmth, the boat’s cabin, equipped with heating and two full bathrooms on the second floor, offered a cozy retreat. With a capacity for 130 passengers, the spaciousness felt extra special with just 45 on board, making for a more intimate and enjoyable experience.

At Jersey Shore Whale Watch, we are just kicking off our season, which runs from now until the end of November. While June through September marks the peak of Whale Watching, the early and late months also offer spectacular sightings, sometimes just minutes after departing the inlet.

My name is Bill McKim, and I am proud to be at the helm of these trips for our seventh year, offering the best Whale Watching tours in New Jersey. There’s no need to travel all the way to Cape Cod to see these magnificent creatures; you can witness them right here against the stunning backdrop of New York City.

We hope to welcome you aboard soon at Jersey Shore Whale Watch, where the season is just getting started, and the whales are eager to perform just outside our inlet. Join us for an unforgettable adventure on the ocean!

First trip report of 2024 was a winner

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May 4, 2024//  by bill mckim//  Leave a Comment

Opening day at Jersey Shore Whale Watch was an adventure to remember! Despite the cool, grey weather with a chance of showers, a spirited group gathered, eager to start the season. My day began humorously as I was anointed by a seagull—a sign of good luck, they say!

As we cruised north, anticipation built until Danielle, our knowledgeable naturalist, spotted a whale before we reached Long Branch. We watched eagerly for its reappearance, but it remained elusive. Pushing further north, our persistence paid off. Near Long Branch, we were thrilled to witness a whale tail thrashing and lunge feeding close to the shore. The excitement was palpable—it could have been the same whale Danielle initially spotted.

The show continued with the whale breaching magnificently three times in front of our boat, much to everyone’s amazement. The mystery deepened as we speculated whether we were seeing one or two whales. Soon enough, we discovered it was two; one performed energetically ahead, while another glided gracefully right beside us, rolling over to reveal its flippers. The captain wisely kept the boat in neutral to ensure the whale’s safety, giving those at the front a spectacular view.

Passengers got some awesome photos, and also got to see bubble net feeding!

Photo by passengers, Patty

 Amid more lunge feeding and tail thrashing, our aquatic friend seemed to perform just for us. As our journey neared its end, we didn’t have to venture far back. Although Danielle pointed out some dolphins, I stayed focused on the whales, not wanting to miss a moment.

For many, it was their first time on the ocean or whale watching, including passengers who had just arrived from India. What a splendid welcome they received! They, along with everyone else, thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

The season is off to a fantastic start, don’t forget our mothers day promo , below 






Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey along the breathtaking Jersey Shore coastline, filled with awe-inspiring encounters with majestic whales? Our season passes for whale watching are now available, and this year, we’re offering only 10 exclusive passes!

Unlike ski resorts or amusement parks, our whale watching boat is limited to just 150 passengers per trip, ensuring an intimate and unforgettable experience for each and every guest. As a result, we’re only selling a select few season passes for Jersey Shore Whale Watch’s season, running from April through November.

With a season pass in hand, you’ll have the opportunity to join us on numerous trips throughout the season, witnessing the incredible beauty of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. From the exhilarating sight of breaching whales to the serene moments as they gracefully glide through the waves, every excursion promises moments you’ll cherish forever.

Don’t miss out on this rare opportunity to become a season pass holder for Jersey Shore Whale Watch. Act fast to secure your spot among the privileged few who will enjoy unlimited access to our unforgettable whale watching adventures.
We will also have a  2 payment option next week if the season passes dont sell out this weekend 

New Merchandise is on the way for 2024, have you seen the new designs?

To reserve your season pass or for more information, please contact us at 732.592.6400 or visit our website at https://jerseyshorewhalewatchingtour.com?utm_source=email&utm_campaign=season%20pass

Sail into a season of wonder and discovery with Jersey Shore Whale Watch!

Warm regards,

Bill Mc Kim

Jersey Shore Whale Watch

Whale watching in October in New Jersey amazing

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The whale watching season in New Jersey has been spectacular

Fall whale watching in New Jersey is a spectacular and unique experience that offers nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers a chance to witness the awe-inspiring giants of the sea in their natural habitat. While New Jersey may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of whale watching, the fall season brings a remarkable opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures as they migrate along the Atlantic coast.

During the fall months, humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, and even the occasional blue whale can be spotted off the coast of New Jersey. These majestic marine mammals undertake long journeys from their feeding grounds in the north to their warmer wintering areas further south. As they pass by New Jersey, they provide a thrilling spectacle for onlookers.

One of the prime locations for whale watching in New Jersey is Belmar , known for its excellent whale-watching tours. Belmar offers a unique vantage point, as it’s situated at the middlie central part of the state, where the Sandy Hook Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. This convergence of waters creates nutrient-rich environments that attract a variety of marine life, making it a whale-watching hotspot.

Fall is an ideal time for whale watching in New Jersey because the weather is generally mild, and the crowds are smaller compared to the summer months. Jersey Shore Whale Watch provide expert guides who are knowledgeable about the whales’ behavior and migration patterns, enhancing the experience by providing fascinating insights into these magnificent creatures.

While the main attraction is undoubtedly the whales, fall whale-watching trips in New Jersey often provide opportunities to spot other marine wildlife, such as dolphins, seals, and various seabird species. The beauty of the autumn foliage along the coast adds to the overall charm of the experience.

In conclusion, fall whale watching in New Jersey offers a unique and unforgettable opportunity to connect with nature and witness the majesty of whales as they make their way along the Atlantic coast. It’s a remarkable adventure that combines the thrill of wildlife encounters with the tranquility of the coastal setting, making it a must-do activity for anyone seeking an enriching outdoor experience in the fall season.

Monday night sunset whale watch Belmar NJ

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Linda writes:

Let me start with my simple statement of last evening: simply beautiful and awesome.

Last evening went on a whale sunset/moonrise cruise. The timing of the moonrise and sunset was that we would be able to see both and the moon was almost full and it is a super moon.

Started off heading northeast out of the inlet on a mostly clear evening with sone clouds and haze. Temperature on the water was mild to cool with it feeling perfect adding a layer to keep comfortable. Around Long Branch, a spout was spotted and we found a humpback whale! We were treated to some up close views as the whale at times as he swam over to us. Saw his tail many times and when he lifted it, the passengers were delighted and oohed and aahed. The children onboard were fantastic in finding the whale and saying “tail, tail, tail” hoping each time the whale would raise his tail!

The whale did some lunge feeding through bait balls and some tail throwing and lobbing! Wow, wow, wow! The power of that motion and strength as it hits the water with a loud “ thump”!

As the evening proceeded, the sun was setting in a beautiful pink haze that casted it’s pink onto the ocean. The whale was swimming in the pinks and silver and gold colors making everything look so beautiful. The sun eventually was hidden by clouds/haze as sunset time approached. Looking east, the moon rose from behind the haze, a beautiful full moon! Spoke to people from Indiana and they were in awe. It was fun being able to experience this trip with them. Okay, does it get any better? Saw everything I hoped for: whale, sunset and moonrise, beautiful evening! The Jersey Girl delivered the perfect trip!

A great weekend of whale watching

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Sunday, June 25th: Today’s whale watching trip was one of the best! With storm clouds closing in along the coast, we decided to head farther off shore where it was sunny and warm to look for our marine mammals. After we got several miles offshore we began to see lots of bait balls which was an incredibly good sign. After cruising North past Asbury, heading into Long Branch, we were pleasantly surprised to be greeted by two humpback whales and loads of dolphins. They were lunge feeding, moving fast, and continuously coming up to the surface. At one point we had each whale on either side of the boat! The dolphins were also surfing alongside the whales and slapping their tails! The whales kept coming very close to the boat which allowed for amazing photos and videos. The guests onboard as well as our crew members were screaming out of joy! As if it even could get any better, we then saw a sea turtle cruising alongside the boat on our return home! It was another gorgeous and successful trip.

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