Archives for September 2025

September 28 Whale Watching Report

We set out at 12:30 p.m. with 75 passengers on board the Jersey Girl under clear skies and unlimited visibility — a truly stunning late September day. Our first whale appeared off the Essex Sussex Hotel near Sea Girt Reef, a well-known fishing spot where baitfish often gather in the fall, drawing in larger predators like humpbacks. What started as a single whale quickly turned into two, and then a third appeared farther offshore near Manasquan Beach.

After spending time with those whales, we headed north following reports of more activity. Along the way, our naturalist Danielle spotted yet another whale, about 2½ miles off Spring Lake. Careful observation confirmed it was a fourth individual, as every humpback has a unique tail pattern for identification.

We were treated to an incredible variety of humpback behaviors throughout the trip. From tail slapping and breaching to active feeding and calm cruising, the whales kept us entertained the entire afternoon. At one point, we captured beautiful shots of two whales lifting their tails at the same time. The action filled all three hours, making it a special day on the ocean and leaving many families thrilled with memories to last a lifetime.

What a Whale of a Day off Belmar, Spring Lake, and Manasquan!

We started the morning right at the dock with a breathtaking flyover by an American Bald Eagle. Just minutes later, two Ospreys were spotted on the Avon side of the inlet as we set out on the Jersey Girl. The multimillion-dollar yacht slipped out alongside us, and soon we were about a mile off Belmar, enjoying perfect fall weather on the ocean.

Not long after, we encountered our first whale—humpback #NYC0471—who has been hanging out in the Belmar/Spring Lake area for the past few weeks. This whale was relaxed and easy to watch, and it was great to see the edges of his flukes healing nicely.

After some time, we cruised south along the beautiful shoreline of Spring Lake and down toward Manasquan. That’s where we saw a second spout near the inlet! This was a brand-new whale for our area, one that had last been spotted in Cape May earlier this month. Its left fluke had a distinctive circular marking, probably from a barnacle, which made the identification possible. To think this whale traveled north in just a matter of days—amazing!

On the way back, the Ospreys had shifted sides, now perched on the Belmar side of the inlet. Guests on board shared in the magic: one couple celebrated both their wedding anniversary and one year cancer-free, alongside their daughter. The joy and awe on their faces said it all.

At times, the boat fell completely silent as everyone simply watched in wonder. The combination of whales, eagles, ospreys, flat seas, and warm fall sunshine made this a truly unforgettable Jersey Shore Whale Watch trip.

📍 Belmar – Spring Lake – Manasquan

📞 Call 732-592-6400 to reserve your seat aboard the Jersey Girl.

Come out while you can—fall is peak whale season!

Subject: Don’t Miss the Whales This Weekend – Book Now!

Hi [First Name],

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to join us on the Jersey Girl, this weekend is it!

The whales have been very active the past few weeks, and Saturday looks absolutely beautiful for a trip. Sunday also looks good, though with a hurricane possibly coming next week, we can’t be sure how conditions will change after that. If you’ve missed a whale on a past trip or have a free rebook, now is the time to go.

🌊 Why this weekend?

• Plenty of whales feeding just off the Jersey Shore.
• Saturday forecast: calm seas and clear skies.
• Sunday still looks good, but conditions could change with the storm.
• Peak season is here—don’t wait!

🎟 Book Your Spot Now:

www.whalewatchnj.com

Or call us at 732-592-6400

👉 If you need to rebook a free trip, please email [email protected].

Don’t miss out—secure your tickets today and join us for an unforgettable whale watching adventure!

See you on the water,

Bill McKim

Jersey Shore Whale Watch

Jersey Shore Whale Watch – Trip Report, Friday, September 19

Whales seemed to be everywhere today! From early in the morning, we had sightings along Belmar Beach—some just 2 miles offshore, and others as close as 50 yards from the sand. We knew it was going to be a great day the moment we left the inlet around 12:30 p.m.

Not long after passing 10th Avenue in Belmar, we slowed the boat and spotted a whale about a mile out. That was just the beginning of a spectacular afternoon on the ocean. Guests enjoyed watching two different humpback whales, a surprise visit from a minke whale, and hundreds of dolphins traveling and playing all around us.

Conditions could not have been better—it felt like a summer day, with flat calm seas and clear views of the coastline from Belmar through Spring Lake. Smiles were everywhere as our passengers soaked up both the wildlife and the scenery.

This is peak whale-watching season, running now through mid-November. Join us this weekend aboard the Jersey Girl—New Jersey’s only full-time whale-watching boat. We sail 4–5 days a week, and every trip is a new adventure!

📍 Check the full schedule and reserve tickets at: whalewatchnj.com

Trip Report – Thursday, September 18

 

The skies cleared right on schedule, giving us a perfect day on the ocean. We started our trip about two miles off the coast of Belmar and headed south toward Manasquan Beach, where we encountered two humpback whales—one of them even breaching! Dolphins joined us along the way, making for an exciting start to the afternoon.

As we cruised along the beautiful coastline of Spring Lake, Belmar, and Manasquan, everyone enjoyed the views and calm seas. On our return toward Belmar, we spotted a third humpback whale about three miles offshore. This older whale was having a fantastic time, surfacing and showing off for the boat.

In total, we saw three different humpback whales today—a clear sign that peak whale-watching season has arrived a little early this year.

If you’ve been waiting to book your trip, now is the time! We have tours running Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, plus throughout September, October, and hopefully into November.

📍 All trips are aboard Jersey Girl—the only full-time whale-watching boat in this part of New Jersey.

📞 Call 732-592-6400 or book online at whalewatchnj.com.

Jersey Shore Whale Watching – Trip Review, Saturday, September 13, 2025

The peak of whale watching season in New Jersey is here, and Saturday, September 13th proved once again why September through November is the very best time to get out on the water aboard the Jersey Girl. With two spectacular trips departing from Belmar, NJ, passengers were treated to unforgettable encounters with humpback whales and playful pods of dolphins right off our local beaches.

Morning Trip – A Special Encounter with Whale #471

Our day began by heading southeast, following up on reports of whales in the area. Before long, we came across Whale #471, the newest whale added to the local photo-ID catalog. While this humpback is an older individual, it is a recent addition to our New Jersey whale records, making it an especially exciting sighting for both our crew and passengers. We were able to spend time observing this whale as it surfaced and rested before moving on to search for more marine life. On our way back toward the inlet, a pod of dolphins joined us, adding even more excitement to an already beautiful morning at sea.

Afternoon Trip – Action off Sea Girt Beach

On our 12:15 p.m. trip, our passengers were thrilled to find a humpback whale resting off Sea Girt Beach. Seeing a whale so close to one of our favorite local shore towns was a reminder of just how rich and active New Jersey’s coastal waters are during the fall migration season.

By the time our 4:30 p.m. trip set out, we returned to the same general area, hoping to see the same whale again. Instead, we were treated to a surprise – a different humpback whale! This whale kept us on our toes with a series of deep dives and surface circles, likely searching for schools of fish. Watching its behavior unfold in real time gave everyone on board a sense of the unpredictability and wonder of whale watching. No two trips are ever the same, and that’s part of what makes these experiences so special.

Why September Through November is Peak Season

If you’ve been thinking about going whale watching in New Jersey, now is the time. From September through the end of November, humpback whales are actively feeding just offshore as they prepare for migration. This means more frequent sightings, more varied behaviors, and incredible opportunities for photography. It’s not unusual to see multiple whales in a single trip during these peak months.

How to Get Tickets

Tickets for Jersey Girl whale watching tours can be booked directly on our website at www.jerseyshorewhalewatchingtour.com or by calling 732-592-6400. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends, as trips often sell out quickly during peak season. We offer guaranteed whale sightings on our 3-hour tours – if you don’t see a whale, you’ll receive a free return ticket to come back again.

Plan Your Adventure Today

Saturday, September 13th was a perfect reminder of why whale watching in Belmar, NJ, is one of the most exciting activities along the Jersey Shore. With two different humpback whales, a pod of dolphins, and spectacular September weather, our passengers experienced the very best of fall ocean wildlife. Don’t miss your chance to join us – peak whale watching season runs now through the end of November. Book your trip today and create memories you’ll treasure forever.

Whale Watching Report – Saturday, September 6, 2025

Today was an exciting day on the water with both our morning dolphin trip and midday whale watch heading out before the storms rolled in. Unfortunately, we had to cancel the late trip due to the forecast, but the two trips that did run gave our passengers a fantastic experience.

The seas were choppy with the storm system pushing closer, which made for a fun ride. Some adventurous passengers even headed to the bow just to get splashed, while others (like me!) were busy keeping cameras dry. The energy onboard was electric as everyone embraced the adventure.

The highlight of the day was spotting whale NYC0470 off Asbury Park. This whale has been hanging around the area for the past week, and today he gave us quite a show—moving in all directions and surprising us with unexpected surface activity. Passengers loved the excitement and unpredictability of the sighting.

Overall, it was another memorable day on the Jersey Girl, proving once again that every trip is unique. We love that our guests got to experience the thrill of whale watching even with weather on the way—it just added to the adventure!

September 4, 2025 Whale Watching Report – Jersey Girl

Today’s trip aboard the Jersey Girl was led by our longtime naturalist, Dr. Danielle Browne, who has been narrating our tours for all eight seasons of Jersey Shore Whale Watch. With her deep knowledge and passion for marine life, passengers were in great hands as we set out with high hopes.

We had received reports of three humpback whales close to shore near Sea Girt, so our captain and crew steered us past Spring Lake, then further south toward Seaside and Brielle. We turned around near Point Pleasant, adjusting course as the winds picked up. While the conditions made the ride sporty at times, the ride north was smoother with the wind at our back. Hoping for better luck, we headed toward the waters off Asbury Park and Allenhurst, where sightings had been strong over the past few weeks.

But today, despite all our searching, nature reminded us she plays by her own rules. We struck out—no whales and no dolphins this time. That’s part of the adventure of true wildlife watching: every day is different, and the ocean always keeps us humble.

The good news? At Jersey Shore Whale Watch, we stand behind our promise. All guests who purchased full-price tickets received our guaranteed free return trip to come back out again this year. That guarantee is part of what makes us New Jersey’s most trusted whale watching company—we don’t want you to miss out, and we’ll make sure you get another chance to see a humpback whale with us.

Weather plays a huge role in what we do, and today’s winds and waves made it tough to spot any activity. That’s why we’ve decided not to sail on Friday, September 5. With the forecast calling for similar conditions, it’s better to stay safely in port, catch up on boat maintenance, and prepare for calmer seas ahead.

We’ll be back on the water soon, and September through November is peak whale watching season here in New Jersey. We’re confident that our next trips will deliver the incredible experiences our guests have come to love—tail slaps, breaches, spouts, and dolphins swimming alongside the boat.

Thank you to everyone who joined us today. Even on a quiet day, there’s joy in being on the ocean, sharing stories, and knowing another adventure is just around the corner. We hope to see you soon aboard the Jersey Girl—the best whale watching boat in New Jersey!

📍 Departing from Belmar, NJ
🌐 jerseyshorewhalewatchingtour.com
📞 732-592-6400

September 3, 2025 Whale Watching Report – Jersey Girl

What an exciting day on the water! Today’s trip aboard the Jersey Girl brought us close to an energetic humpback whale off the shores of Elberon Beach and Deal, New Jersey. Naturalist Brooke was the first to spot the whale, and from that moment on, the energy on board skyrocketed.

This whale was incredibly active, breaching multiple times and thrilling everyone on deck. Each time the massive body of the whale soared out of the water and crashed back down with an explosive splash, the crowd erupted in cheers. Cameras clicked, videos rolled, and families stood at the railings wide-eyed, experiencing one of nature’s most powerful displays.

Earlier in the day, our route took us as far north as Monmouth Beach before we turned back toward Belmar. That’s when our luck paid off and Brooke’s keen eye caught the spout. Within minutes, passengers were treated to one of the most memorable encounters of the season. The sight of a whale breaching just offshore is something you never forget, and today’s trip was filled with those unforgettable moments.

We are now in peak whale watching season in New Jersey. September through November is when our local waters are alive with humpback whales feeding and migrating. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to join us, this is it.

The Jersey Girl is the best whale watching boat in New Jersey—110 feet long with indoor and outdoor seating, two levels, a snack bar, and a crew dedicated to giving you a safe, fun, and educational experience. The boat is handicap accessible, though our bathrooms are not fully wheelchair accessible due to their size. Still, many passengers with mobility needs have been able to enjoy a great day out on the water with us.

This is our eighth season of whale watching at the Jersey Shore, and we’re proud to say each year gets better. With a couple of months left in the season, now is the time to come aboard, see these incredible animals, and create lifetime memories with your family and friends. Whale watching is truly fun for all ages, from young children seeing their first whale to grandparents checking it off their bucket list.

We sail from Belmar, New Jersey about four days a week, often with multiple trips each day. Check out our full schedule at jerseyshorewhalewatchingtour.com or call us directly at 732-592-6400 to book your trip.

Don’t wait—whales are here now, and the ocean is calling!

September 1, 2025 Trip Report – Jersey Girl

Labor Day weekend brought us one of the most memorable trips of the season aboard the best whale watching boat in New Jersey, the Jersey Girl. At 110 feet long, with plenty of room for everyone to move comfortably between the two levels, she’s a beauty in her own right—and on this trip she carried a boat full of eager whale watchers ready for one last adventure before summer’s unofficial end.

The ocean greeted us with choppy conditions, just as the forecast had warned. Our captain and crew, seasoned at navigating the swells, reassured everyone that while the ride would be “sporty,” the chances of finding whales remained excellent. Spirits were high as we set out past the jetties of Belmar, heading first east, then adjusting course south, later west, and even north again, covering all directions as our naturalist scanned the horizon for the tell-tale signs of whale activity.

For a while, the anticipation built with no reward. Guests leaned into the railings, eyes squinting into the sun and wind, wondering if today would be one of those rare days when the whales elude us. Then, at last, came the announcement everyone had been waiting for: “We have a whale!” The words carried across the deck like music, and instantly the boat erupted in cheers and applause. Cameras came out, children pointed toward the sea, and a wave of excitement swept through the passengers.

The first spout appeared in the distance, a misty column against the horizon. Then another, closer this time. As the whale surfaced and prepared for a deep dive, her tail rose high above the waves in a graceful arc. Our naturalist explained that this dramatic lift revealed enough detail for identification—and in doing so confirmed that this was a new whale to our area and, indeed, a female. She was magnificent, her flukes distinct and powerful as she slipped beneath the water.

Over the next hour, the whale treated us to a series of breathtaking encounters. Each surfacing was greeted with gasps and exclamations of “ooh” and “aah” from the crowd. At one point, sunlight struck her spout just right, forming delicate rainbows above the ocean—a magical reminder of how special these moments truly are. Guests rushed from one side of the boat to the other, eager not to miss a second of the action, while our crew helped position the Jersey Girl so everyone had a clear view.

There is something deeply moving about waiting patiently, scanning the seas, and then finally being rewarded with the appearance of such a majestic animal. For many on board, this was their first close-up whale encounter, and the sense of awe was unmistakable. For our seasoned whale watchers, it was equally thrilling to know that this was a brand-new whale never before recorded in our area.

As the sun dipped lower in the sky, and we turned for home, passengers buzzed with excitement, swapping photos and videos, reliving each moment of the encounter. Though summer was drawing to a close, the memory of this day will linger for a long time. It was a perfect reminder that whale watching in New Jersey doesn’t end with summer—September, October, and November are peak months, when sightings are at their very best.

This trip, with its new whale, rainbows, and the joy of discovery, was a fitting celebration of the season aboard the Jersey Girl. A beauty, carrying us to beauty.