July 2, 2025 – A Big Surprise on the Jersey Shore: Finback Whale Sighting!

July 2, 2025 – A Big Surprise on the Jersey Shore: Finback Whale Sighting!

At Jersey Shore Whale Watch, every trip is a new adventure—but today’s journey brought an extraordinary surprise that none of us will forget.

As we cruised a bit further offshore, scanning the horizon for any signs of whale activity, we were thrilled to encounter a massive finback whale, measuring an estimated 50 to 60 feet long. It was an awe-inspiring moment for everyone on board the Jersey Girl, our 120-foot whale watching vessel based in Belmar, New Jersey.

This was no ordinary sighting. The finback whale—also known as the fin whale—is the second-largest animal on Earth, and considered an endangered species. Getting the chance to observe one up close (from the safe, regulated distance of 100 feet, as required by federal law) was a privilege and a powerful reminder of the incredible marine wildlife that travels through the coastal waters of New Jersey each summer.

A Feeding Finback Whale Right Off the Jersey Shore

Today’s finback whale wasn’t just cruising by. It was actively feeding, surfacing multiple times and giving our passengers fantastic photo opportunities and long looks at its enormous back and blowhole as it lunged through bait-rich waters. Fin whales are filter feeders, using long plates of baleen to strain out small fish, squid, and krill. These high-speed giants are also known for their distinctive right-side white jaw and asymmetrical coloration—making them easier for researchers and photographers to identify.

What makes this sighting particularly important is that finback whales are not commonly seen close to shore in New Jersey. Most whale sightings here involve humpback whales, so spotting a feeding finback whale is a truly rare experience—one that highlights the rich biodiversity just off the coast.

Signs of Human Impact: A Healing Propeller Injury

While we were in awe of this incredible animal, we also noticed something sobering. The whale appeared to have a visible injury, likely caused by a recent boat strike. While the wound looked to be healing, it was a powerful reminder of the dangers whales face in busy marine corridors like the New Jersey coast, especially during peak boating seasons like the 4th of July weekend.

This incident underscores the importance of boating responsibly and adhering to NOAA’s “Slow Down for Whales” guidelines. All boaters are urged to be vigilant and reduce speed in areas where whales are known to feed and migrate. We encourage everyone to learn more through organizations like the Marine Mammal Stranding Center and the Coastal Research and Education Society of Long Island.

Seabirds and More: A Full Offshore Ecosystem

Today’s trip wasn’t just about the whale! We were also joined offshore by Wilson’s Storm-Petrels and Shearwaters, both seabird species that follow the same baitfish and plankton that whales feed on. For birders, it was a dream come true—a chance to see pelagic species in action just a short ride from the Jersey Shore.

These kinds of sightings show that offshore New Jersey is more than just a summer vacation spot—it’s a thriving marine ecosystem, filled with life from the surface to the seafloor.

Still Time to Book Your 4th of July Whale Watching Tour!

With today’s incredible sighting of a feeding finback whale, we are more excited than ever for the rest of the July 4th holiday weekend. If you’re looking for something memorable, family-friendly, and genuinely awe-inspiring, now is the time to book your whale watching tour with Jersey Shore Whale Watch.

We have trips scheduled Thursday through Sunday, and there are still spots available on several departures. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning guest, each trip offers something new—you never know what you’ll see out on the open ocean!

Why Choose Jersey Shore Whale Watch?

We’re proud to operate the only full-time whale watching boat in New Jersey. The Jersey Girl is a 120-foot vessel with indoor and outdoor seating, restrooms, snacks, hot pretzels, and professional narration on every trip. We’re a certified member of Whale SENSE, which means we follow the strictest guidelines for safe and responsible whale watching.

All photos and videos are taken with telephoto lenses from a safe distance. We never chase, crowd, or disturb whales or dolphins. Our mission is to provide unforgettable experiences while respecting and protecting the amazing marine life we encounter.

🐋 Plan Your Adventure

📍 Departure Location: Belmar Marina, Belmar, NJ

🌐 Book Online: jerseyshorewhalewatch.com

📞 Call or Text: 732-592-6400

📷 Follow Us: #JerseyShoreWhaleWatch #FinbackWhales #WhaleWatchingNJ #HelloMrWhale

Let the ocean surprise you. Join us on the Jersey Girl—where every trip is a front-row seat to nature’s greatest show.