Celebrating International Women’s Day by recognizing two of the incredible women who help make Jersey Shore Whale Watch such a special experience. Their knowledge, dedication, and passion for marine science help shape every trip aboard the Jersey Girl. Today we’re proud to spotlight a few of the amazing women on our team. 🐋🌊✨
Dr. Danielle Brown, PhD
Role: Lead Naturalist
Fun Fact: 2026 will mark Dr. Brown’s 9th year with Jersey Shore Whale Watch. Danielle brings a deep passion for marine science and whale research to every trip she narrates. Her work studying humpback whales in the waters off New Jersey helps passengers better understand the incredible animals we encounter on the ocean.
Brooke van de Sande
Role: Marine Educator & Naturalist
Fun Fact: Brooke is beginning her 4th season with JSWW. She is a graduate of Monmouth University, where she studied Marine and Environmental Biology and Policy and conducted research using environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect humpback whales. Working with Jersey Shore Whale Watch, she collected water samples to help track whale presence, and her research was highlighted at Monmouth University’s School of Science Summer Research Symposium. Brooke is now looking forward to pursuing her master’s degree this fall.
We’re proud to have Dr. Brown and Brooke as part of the Jersey Shore Whale Watch team, helping us share the science, excitement, and wonder of the ocean with every passenger who steps aboard.
#InternationalWomensDay #JerseyShoreWhaleWatch #WomenInScience #WomenOnTheWater #MarineEducation #BelmarNJ #WhaleWatchingNJ