Nov 17th trip report Minke whale and dolphins

**The Unpredictable Beauty of Whale Watching in New Jersey**

Whale watching is one of the most thrilling and unpredictable adventures you can experience along the Jersey Shore. Each day brings something new, and yesterday was a perfect example of the ocean’s ever-changing nature. The ocean was teeming with life, and the whales were easy to find. But today was a different story. Here’s a recap of our journey and why every trip is a unique experience.

### The Quest for Whales

We started our day with high hopes, heading back to the spot where whales had been abundant the day before. To our surprise, the waters were eerily quiet. Not a single spout in sight. Undeterred, we continued north toward Sea Bright, scanning the horizon for any signs of activity. Again, nothing.

Determined to make the most of the day, we turned south toward Asbury Park, an area that often delivers spectacular sightings. But luck was not on our side. Despite our efforts, the whales remained elusive.

With time ticking away, we decided to venture past the inlet and head further south toward Spring Lake. This area has been known to surprise us, and we were eager to see if today would be one of those days.

### A Glimpse of Marine Life

Our persistence finally paid off near the Essex and Sussex. A pod of dolphins appeared, playfully swimming alongside the boat. Watching these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat is always a joy, and our passengers were thrilled to capture photos and videos of their acrobatics.

As we enjoyed the company of the dolphins, Danielle, one of our crew members, spotted something extraordinary—a Minke whale right in front of the boat! Excitement filled the air as we approached carefully, allowing everyone onboard to get a good look. The Minke surfaced a few times, giving us the chance to admire its sleek form and graceful movements before it disappeared beneath the waves.

### Unexpected Highlights

As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors. Although the clouds eventually took over, the view was a stunning reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds us on every trip. Just when we thought the day was over, Linda, another sharp-eyed crew member, spotted an unexpected visitor—a bald eagle perched on the tower near the Coast Guard station. It was a rare sighting and a delightful end to our journey.

### The Joy of Being on the Water

Even without humpback whales, today was a beautiful November day on the water. The calm seas and mild temperatures made for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Whale watching is about more than just the sightings; it’s about connecting with nature, enjoying the ocean’s tranquility, and sharing unforgettable moments with friends and family.

### Why Whale Watching in New Jersey is a Must-Do Fall Activity

New Jersey’s coastline is a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts. Fall is an especially great time for whale watching, as the waters are often calm, and the marine life is abundant. Here are some reasons why you should add whale watching to your list of fall adventures:

– **Unique Experiences:** Every trip is different, offering new opportunities to see whales, dolphins, and other marine creatures.
– **Scenic Views:** The Jersey Shore provides breathtaking backdrops, from vibrant sunsets to picturesque coastlines.
– **Family-Friendly:** Whale watching is an activity that everyone can enjoy, making it perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends.
– **Educational Value:** Learn about marine life and conservation efforts while experiencing it firsthand.

### Tips for a Memorable Whale Watching Trip

– **Dress in Layers:** Fall weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for both chilly breezes and warm sunshine.
– **Bring Binoculars:** While the whales often come close, having binoculars can enhance your experience.
– **Arrive Early:** Give yourself plenty of time to find parking and get settled on the boat.
– **Stay Patient:** Wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, but the anticipation makes the experience all the more rewarding.

### Plan Your Adventure with Jersey Shore Whale Watch

At Jersey Shore Whale Watch, we pride ourselves on providing unforgettable experiences aboard our boat, *Jersey Girl*. As the only full-time whale-watching service in New Jersey, we’re committed to making every trip special. Whether it’s your first time on the water or you’re a seasoned enthusiast, our knowledgeable crew and comfortable boat ensure a fantastic outing.

Visit [jerseyshorewhalewatch.com](https://jerseyshorewhalewatch.com) to book your trip or call us at **732-592-6400**. Don’t forget to check out our merchandise, including T-shirts and sweatshirts, to commemorate your adventure. Whale watching also makes a thoughtful gift for the holidays.

### Join Us for Your Next Adventure

While today’s trip didn’t deliver humpback whales, it reminded us of the joy of being on the water and the excitement of the unexpected. From playful dolphins to a rare bald eagle sighting, every journey offers its own special moments. Come join us and discover the wonders of the ocean for yourself!