### Friday, October 25 Whale Watching Trip Report – Belmar, NJ
What an incredible Friday afternoon whale-watching adventure we had on October 25, right off the beautiful coast of **Belmar, New Jersey**! The fall weather was absolutely perfect for a day out on the water—clear skies, crisp air, and calm seas. It’s truly one of the best times of year to be at the Jersey Shore, where the coastline comes alive with both marine wildlife and stunning autumn views.
Our journey began as we set sail from the **Belmar Inlet** aboard **Jersey Girl**, our spacious and comfortable whale-watching vessel. With the fall breeze gently blowing and the warm sunshine on our faces, we headed out in search of the incredible wildlife that calls these waters home during this time of year. And the day certainly didn’t disappoint!
Not long after leaving the inlet, we had our first sighting—an awe-inspiring **humpback whale**! This whale was swimming quite close to shore, giving everyone on board an exciting, up-close experience. While the whale didn’t show us its tail flukes, it surfaced several times, allowing passengers to marvel at its sheer size and grace as it glided through the water. It was a beautiful reminder of the majestic creatures that migrate through the waters of **Monmouth County** every fall.
As we continued along the coastline, we encountered an amazing group of **dolphins**. This pod was lively and playful, swimming alongside the boat, riding in the wake, and leaping out of the water. It’s always a crowd favorite to see these dolphins in action, and they certainly put on a show for us! The sight of dolphins playing so close to the boat, coupled with the serene ocean views, made for an unforgettable afternoon.
Adding to the beauty of the day were the numerous **Northern Gannets** we saw flying overhead. These striking seabirds, with their distinctive white bodies and black wingtips, were circling above the dolphins, diving into the water to catch fish. It was a beautiful display of nature’s balance, watching the dolphins below and the birds above working together in the marine ecosystem. The connection between the dolphins and the birds is always fascinating to witness and gave us a full appreciation of the biodiversity in these coastal waters.
As we sailed past towns like **Avon-by-the-Sea** and **Bradley Beach**, the views of the shoreline were stunning. The fall colors of the trees lining the coast, mixed with the picturesque oceanfront homes, made for a truly scenic experience. The vibrant leaves and calm waters offered the perfect backdrop for a relaxing yet thrilling day out at sea.
Our whale-watching trips this time of year provide not only incredible wildlife sightings but also a chance to take in the unique beauty of the **Jersey Shore** in the fall. The weather is cool but comfortable, making it the perfect time to layer up with a cozy sweatshirt and enjoy everything this season has to offer.
Overall, it was another amazing trip with **Jersey Shore Whale Watch**. We’re excited for more adventures as the fall season continues, and we look forward to welcoming more guests aboard to experience the wonders of whale watching along New Jersey’s stunning coastline.
If you haven’t joined us yet, now is the perfect time! Don’t miss your chance to see whales, dolphins, and more while enjoying the beautiful fall weather. See you on the water!