November 4th Trip Report – Election Day Whale Watch

We had an amazing group onboard today from the Manalapan High School science classes, and what a trip they picked! The students were treated to four different humpback whales, all feeding just one to two miles off the beaches of Spring Lake, Sea Girt, and Manasquan.

Even with the breeze, the ocean stayed surprisingly calm, and it turned into a fantastic morning on the water. The kids were completely absorbed—smiling, cheering, and taking photos as the whales surfaced close by. You could really see the transformation: students who stepped on the boat thinking, “We’re just happy we’re not in school,” suddenly turning into excited marine-life explorers the moment they saw their first wild whale.

On the ride back toward Belmar we even picked up a bonus—a pod of dolphins cruising alongside the boat, giving everyone one more unforgettable moment.

A huge thank-you to Tom from Manalapan High School for continuing to bring his classes out with us year after year. His students are always a pleasure, and today was no exception.

If you know any schools interested in bringing science, marine biology, or environmental studies to life, have them email or call us.

We’d love to host them aboard Jersey Girl, the Jersey Shore’s only full-time whale-watching boat.

Jersey Shore Whale Watch

📞 732-592-6400

🌐 whalewatchnj.com

🐋 Whale Watching Report — Sunday, November 2, 2025

Belmar, New Jersey

We had a bubble feeder today!

Today’s lucky passengers aboard the Jersey Girl witnessed one of the ocean’s most amazing sights — a juvenile humpback whale bubble feeding! This fascinating behavior happens when a whale releases a spiral of bubbles to trap schools of bait fish, then lunges up through the middle to feed.

The ocean was alive with action — several bluefin tuna sightings, diving gannets, and the shimmering fall sunlight along the coast. We cruised past Manasquan and Point Pleasant, then along the Spring Lake and Belmar beachfronts, where the late-afternoon sun lit up the waves in gold.

It was a picture-perfect fall day on the Jersey Shore — incredible wildlife, calm seas, and another unforgettable trip aboard the Jersey Girl.

🎟️ Book your next trip at WhaleWatchNJ.com or call 732-592-6400.

🐋 Don’t miss your chance — only a few weeks left in our 2025 season!

📍 Belmar Beach, NJ — Jersey Shore Whale Watch

#whalewatching #whales #bubblefeeding #humpbackwhale #njwhales #dolphinwatching #njwildlife #belmar #gothamwhale #jerseyshore #fallvibes #oceanlife

🎥 Short TikTok / Reels caption version:

We had a bubble feeder today! 🐋 A young humpback whale putting on a show off Belmar — plus tuna, dolphins, and gannets everywhere! 🌊 #njwhalewatching #belmar #whales #bubblefeeding #jerseyshore #oceanlife #thingstodoinnj

🐋 Whale Watching Report — Saturday, November 1, 2025

Belmar, New Jersey

We went whale watching yesterday knowing it might be a challenge to find whales so soon after a major coastal storm — but that’s what makes every trip so exciting, you never know what you’ll see out there!

Not long after leaving the inlet, we found huge pods of bottlenose dolphins — hundreds of them! They were incredibly active and social, with plenty of splashing, tail-slapping, and even some playful leaps right alongside the boat.

We cruised north toward Long Branch, then headed east and back south past Belmar Beach, exploring an area rich with bird life — gulls, gannets, and terns filled the sky, diving and feeding all around us. It truly felt like the ocean was alive with energy, even if the whales decided to stay hidden today.

It was an amazing day to be on the water, with passengers celebrating a wedding anniversary and a birthday on board — memories made with dolphins, seabirds, and calm fall seas.

Tomorrow’s forecast looks beautiful, so don’t miss your chance to experience the final weeks of our fall whale-watching season. Every day brings something new out on the ocean — join us aboard the Jersey Girl, the only full-time whale-watching boat in New Jersey!

🎟️ Book now at WhaleWatchNJ.com or call 732-592-6400.

📍 Belmar Beach, NJ — Jersey Shore Whale Watch

#whalewatching #dolphins #seabirds #birdwatching #fallvibes #oceanlife #belmar 

Fall Whale Watching Trip Report – Belmar to Asbury Park 🐋

There are only a few weeks left in our Jersey Shore Whale Watch season, and fall continues to deliver incredible experiences! Today felt cooler than yesterday with clouds rolling in, but that didn’t stop us from having another unforgettable day on the ocean.

We left Belmar Inlet aboard the Jersey Girl, our big red whale-watching boat, and headed north after hearing multiple whale reports off Deal and Allenhurst. Just off Asbury Park, we spotted our first humpback whale! He didn’t show his tail, but gave everyone an exciting show with several lunges — one right in front of the boat and another as he passed directly underneath. It was incredible to see his massive body glide through the water so close to us.

Later, we found a second whale east of Asbury Park, identified as NYC0091, first recorded in 2018 but still awaiting an official name since he hasn’t yet been sighted on a feeding ground. We also spotted pods of playful dolphins swimming nearby and even saw a stunning rainbow stretching across the ocean.

One passenger shared that seeing a whale was on her bucket list — and today, she checked it off! 🌈🐬

Fall is one of the most exciting times to go whale watching in New Jersey — different whales are migrating through our area, and every trip is unique. Don’t miss your chance to see them before the season ends!

🎟️ Book now at WhaleWatchNJ.com or call 732-592-6400 — your adventure awaits aboard the Jersey Girl!

🐋 Whale Watching Trip Report — Saturday, Belmar to Manasquan Coastline

What a spectacular October day to be on the ocean! The Jersey Shore Whale Watch team set sail today aboard the Jersey Girl, our big red boat based right here in Belmar, New Jersey. The fall ocean conditions could not have been more perfect — calm seas, bright skies, and plenty of excitement as we cruised south past Spring Lake, Sea Girt, and out toward the Brielle and Manasquan area near the Sea Girt Reef.

Our passengers were thrilled as we spotted multiple fin whales feeding and surfacing throughout the afternoon. These incredible whales are the second-largest species on earth, and seeing them just a few miles off the Jersey Shore never gets old. We also saw gannets diving and baitfish breaking the surface — classic signs that whales are nearby. The crisp fall air made for clear views all the way up the coast, with the Manasquan Inlet lighthouse visible in the distance.

Every trip this season continues to show how amazing New Jersey’s marine life really is. The whales are still here and feeding heavily before migrating south, so there’s still time to join us! We’ll be heading back out Sunday at 12:30 PM sharp, and tickets are available now at WhaleWatchNJ.com.

Our boat, the Jersey Girl, is the only full-time whale-watching vessel operating in this part of New Jersey, and she’s designed for comfort and safety. She’s a large, clean, beautiful boat with wide aisles, plenty of seating, and both reserved and general admission options. As the weather turns cooler, our heated cabin keeps everyone warm and cozy while still providing 360-degree ocean views. We also have men’s and ladies’ bathrooms, a snack bar, and even an NFL TV feed for anyone who wants to keep up with the football game while out watching whales — yes, we see you, football fans! 🏈🐋

Our crew works hard to make every trip memorable, whether it’s your first time seeing a whale or your tenth. Fall is one of the best seasons for whale watching in New Jersey — fewer crowds, calm seas, and amazing visibility. The whales are still actively feeding along the Belmar, Spring Lake, and Sea Girt coastlines, and we’ve had consistent sightings this week near the Brielle and Manasquan areas.

Don’t miss your chance to experience this incredible time of year on the ocean. Bring your camera, your sense of adventure, and maybe pick up one of our cozy Jersey Shore Whale Watch sweatshirts on board!

📅 Next trip: Sunday at 12:30 PM

📍 Departing from: Belmar Marina, aboard Jersey Girl

🎟️ Tickets: WhaleWatchNJ.com

📞 732-592-6400

See you on the water — leave your problems at the dock and come whale watch with us! 🌊🐋

The Pop That Changed My Life: Surviving a Hemorrhagic Stroke

On the morning of July 1, 2018, I heard a faint pop in the back of my head. Minutes later an intense headache hit, the walls began to move, and my balance vanished. As someone who lives on the ocean running a whale-watching company, I blamed “land‑sickness.” Soon I was vomiting bile and still telling myself it was food poisoning.

For four days I stayed home. On July 4 I even photographed an engagement session in 95‑degree heat, using my tripod like a cane. On July 5 my sister Christine insisted on the ER and followed the car so I couldn’t bail. She likely saved my life.

Ocean Surprises off the Jersey Shore: Our Encounter with a Mola Mola

This week’s whale-watching trip was another reminder that every day on the ocean is an adventure. We left the dock under bright skies but with a brisk wind that made for a choppy start as the Jersey Girl headed south out of the Belmar Inlet. The waves were lively, and the air had that unmistakable fall bite, the kind that tells you the season is changing even though the sun is still warm on your face. Our plan was to follow the shoreline south, an area that has been very productive this fall, with multiple whales and dolphins spotted near Manasquan, Point Pleasant, and Bay Head over the past several weeks.

Despite the rolling seas, everyone was in good spirits. Our passengers lined the railings, cameras ready, hoping to catch sight of the familiar spout of a humpback whale or a pod of playful bottlenose dolphins. As we passed the Manasquan Inlet, the scenery was classic Jersey Shore — surfers testing the waves, anglers along the jetties, and the coastal homes standing proud against the autumn wind. It’s easy to forget how much beauty surrounds us here until you’re out on the water looking back toward shore.

Then it happened. Out of nowhere, Wolf, one of our sharp-eyed regulars, suddenly shouted, “Shark!” His voice carried over the wind, and instantly everyone turned their heads to port side. At first glance, it did look like a large dorsal fin cutting through the waves, but something didn’t quite match the motion of a shark. I laughed and said, “Great eyes, Wolf, but that’s no shark — that’s a Mola Mola!”

Sure enough, what we were seeing was an Ocean Sunfish, one of the strangest and most fascinating creatures in the sea. These fish can grow to be over six feet long and weigh as much as a small car. They look almost prehistoric — flat, round, and wide, with long fins that stick out of the water as they bask near the surface. This one was magnificent, slowly gliding along the left side of the boat, rising and dipping between the swells.

For more than ten minutes we watched it swim alongside us, its fin sometimes disappearing behind the waves only to reappear moments later. Every time it surfaced, the crowd gasped and pointed, thrilled to see something so unusual up close. Even our crew, who spend hundreds of days a year on the ocean, were smiling like kids. It’s rare to have such a long, clear look at a Mola Mola — usually they vanish quickly or are only glimpsed at a distance. This time we had front-row seats to one of nature’s oddest wonders.

Though we didn’t spot any whales on this particular trip, the Mola Mola made the day unforgettable. Encounters like this are exactly why we always say no two whale-watching trips are ever the same. The ocean decides what we’ll see, and sometimes it offers up surprises we could never plan for. Seeing an Ocean Sunfish that close, moving so gracefully through the rolling surf, was a special treat that none of us will forget.

As we turned north to head home, the sea began to settle. The wind shifted, and suddenly it felt like summer again — calm, gentle, and sparkling blue. It’s amazing how quickly conditions can change out here. The same ocean that had been rough and challenging only a couple of hours earlier was now peaceful, the waves smoothing out as if someone had flipped a switch. Passengers leaned against the rails soaking in the warmth, taking photos of the coastline as we cruised back past Point Pleasant and Manasquan.

Even without whales, it was one of those days that perfectly captures what we love about being out on the water — the unpredictability, the beauty, and the thrill of discovery. Whether it’s a breaching humpback, a pod of dolphins racing the bow, or a rare Mola Mola sunning itself near the surface, the Jersey Shore never fails to surprise us. We’ll be back out again soon — the whales and dolphins are still around, and every trip brings something new to see.

🐋 MTMS Eco Explorers Set Sail for a Whale-Watching Adventure with Jersey Shore Whale Watch

Belmar, NJ — October 17, 2025

It was an unforgettable day on the ocean for the Manchester Township Middle School Eco Explorers Club, who joined the crew of the Jersey Girl for an educational whale-watching trip along the Jersey Shore coastline. Nearly forty students and teachers set sail under blue skies, eager to spot marine wildlife and connect classroom science lessons to real-world ocean experiences.

Guided by our professional naturalist — a Monmouth University marine-biology graduate — and the experienced Jersey Shore Whale Watch crew, students learned about New Jersey’s marine ecosystems, migration patterns, and conservation efforts during their three-hour voyage.

The adventure started strong when a bald eagle soared overhead as the boat left the Belmar Inlet. Excitement grew as students spotted a sea turtle gliding at the surface and the distant shimmer of the New York City skyline. On the return south, the trip reached its highlight: a large pod of dolphins, about a dozen strong, surrounded the boat, leaping through the waves while students cheered and snapped photos. Our naturalist explained that dolphins can actually hear the excitement through the water — making this a truly interactive ocean encounter!

The trip, supported by grant funding from the New Jersey Education Association and the New York Giants, brought the Eco Explorers’ science curriculum to life. Teachers Susan Morgan, Kristine Laporte, and Michael Balog organized the experience to give their students hands-on exposure to coastal ecology, climate science, and the importance of marine protection.

At Jersey Shore Whale Watch, we’re proud to partner with schools across New Jersey to create memorable STEM-based eco tours that inspire the next generation of marine stewards.

⸻

🏫 Plan an Eco-Tour for Your School

We’re now booking fall 2025 and spring 2026 school whale-watching adventures aboard the Jersey Girl. These three-hour educational trips are tailored for grades 5 through 12 and align with STEM and environmental-science standards.

The typical cost is about $32 per student, and many schools offset expenses through PTA support, education-foundation mini-grants, or local business sponsorships. A few community partners or parents chipping in can make an entire class trip possible — and unforgettable.

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📞 Contact Us

To reserve your school’s date or request a quote, call 732-592-6400, email [email protected], or visit WhaleWatchNJ.com for details, photos, and educational resources.

Come see why New Jersey teachers say a day aboard the Jersey Girl is “the best field trip of the year.”

Trip Report – Friday, October 10, 2025

There’s a reason Jersey Shore Whale Watch has earned over 2,000 five-star reviews on Google — our crew goes above and beyond to make every trip unforgettable. Today’s three-hour tour turned into nearly four hours on the water, and our guests were rewarded with an incredible variety of sightings.

We started from Belmar, heading out toward Shark River Reef, then over to Manasquan and Spring Lake where pods of dolphins played alongside the boat. From there, we traveled north past Asbury Park, Allenhurst, and Deal, where the highlight of the day appeared — a magnificent humpback whale that surfaced close enough for everyone to capture amazing photos. Along the way, we also spotted a graceful ocean sunfish (Mola mola) and even a few sharks, making it a true New Jersey marine safari. We even saw a sea turtle

Although the skies were overcast, the crystal-clear water made spotting wildlife easy and comfortable on the eyes. Trips in October and November are some of the very best for whale watching in New Jersey, and today’s adventure was proof of that. We’re planning to head back out tomorrow, Saturday, October 11, before a coastal storm moves in for a couple of days.

Remember, every trip with us is unique — you never know what you’ll see — but you can always count on our crew to give you a safe, exciting, and comfortable experience. Our boat, the Jersey Girl, offers a heated cabin, plenty of indoor seating, and the largest outdoor deck space of any whale watching boat in the New York–New Jersey area.

📸 Don’t forget you can shop for Jersey Shore Whale Watch souvenirs anytime at BillMcKim.com.

🎟️ Tickets available at WhaleWatchNJ.com or call 732-592-6400.

Come join us — fall whale watching in New Jersey is at its peak!

October 4, 2025

Another AMAZING day!!! We saw TWO humpback whales, a MINKE whale, hundreds of #dolphins and even a bluefin #tuna!! More and more #whales keep showing up off the #jerseyshore!

We LOVE #fall #whalewatching!! And guess what! WE HAVE ANOTHER TRIP TOMORROW!!!!

Belmar Beach NJ Gotham Whale
#humpbackwhales #njwhales #yolo

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.

August 31, 2025 – Trip Report

What an amazing day on the ocean aboard the Jersey Girl!
• 9:30am Trip – Guests were greeted with pods of playful bottlenose dolphins cruising alongside the boat.
• 12:30pm Trip – A humpback whale made an appearance, delighting everyone on board.
• 4:30pm Trip – Passengers hit the jackpot, spotting two humpback whales, plus an incredible sight of thresher sharks leaping out of the water!

In total, three trips, three incredible experiences, and a reminder that this is truly the best time of year for whale watching in New Jersey. Every whale we saw today was new to our area and will soon be added to the Gotham Whale catalog.

👉 Tell your friends, gather your family, and come experience the magic of whale watching with us. Fall is the peak season, and the ocean is alive with dolphins, whales, sharks, and seabirds.

📍 Belmar Beach, NJ
🛥 Jersey Shore Whale Watch – the only full-time whale watching boat in NJ

#njwhales #jerseyshore #whalewatching #whalefever #dolphins #sharks #humpbackwhale #belmar #pelagicbirding

Trip Report – August 28, 2025

An Awesome Day on the Ocean near Sandy Hook!

What an unforgettable afternoon aboard Jersey Girl! Today’s whale watching trip took us north from Belmar along one of the most scenic stretches of the Jersey Shore. As soon as we cleared the Shark River Inlet, the ocean opened up with calm seas, blue skies, and that salty breeze that makes you instantly feel like you’ve left your worries back at the dock.

Scenic Cruise Along the Shore

As we traveled north, our guests enjoyed views of some of New Jersey’s most beautiful seaside towns. We cruised past Bradley Beach and Asbury Park, both bustling with late summer beachgoers enjoying the sunshine. The shoreline was alive with color—umbrellas, surfers, and families savoring the last few days before Labor Day.

Further north, the landscape shifted as we passed Long Branch and Monmouth Beach, where gorgeous oceanfront homes lined the coast. These multimillion-dollar residences, with their sweeping lawns and terraces, are a reminder of the unique beauty and history of the Jersey Shore. Guests loved hearing about the rich traditions of these towns while snapping photos of the houses and the sparkling Atlantic backdrop.

Wildlife Sightings Near Sandy Hook

The highlight of the afternoon came as we approached Sandy Hook, one of New Jersey’s most iconic coastal landmarks. Just offshore, we spotted the telltale blow of a humpback whale. Excitement buzzed through the boat as cameras came out and everyone leaned forward to watch.

What happened next was nothing short of spectacular: the whale engaged in lunge feeding, bursting through schools of bait fish with its enormous mouth wide open. Seeing a humpback whale feeding right at the surface is always a thrill—it’s a dramatic reminder of the power and grace of these incredible animals.

As if that weren’t enough, a pod of bottlenose dolphins joined the scene, riding the waves and circling near the whale. Guests were treated to the unforgettable sight of dolphins and a whale sharing the same waters, all against the backdrop of Sandy Hook and the northern New Jersey shoreline.

A Perfect Afternoon at Sea

It’s days like today that make whale watching so magical. The combination of calm seas, stunning scenery, and incredible wildlife encounters reminded us why New Jersey has become one of the top whale watching destinations on the East Coast. The atmosphere aboard was filled with joy, laughter, and excitement—especially from first-time passengers who had never seen a whale so close before.

Peak Whale Watching Season Is Almost Here!

While August has given us some truly memorable trips, the peak whale watching season in New Jersey runs through October and November. During these months, humpback whales are especially active as they migrate and feed along our coast. It’s the absolute best time of year to join us, and trips often feature multiple whales, dolphins, and other marine life.

With Labor Day weekend just ahead, our trips are filling quickly. It’s the perfect time to plan one last summer adventure or to get an early start on fall whale watching. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the excitement for yourself.

Book Your Adventure Now

Jersey Shore Whale Watch is proud to be New Jersey’s only full-time whale watching company, operating seven days a week. Every trip is guaranteed—you’ll see a whale, or your next trip is free (just pay a $20 booking fee).

📍 Departing from Belmar Marina
🌐 Book online at whalewatchnj.com
📞 Call 732-592-6400

⸻

#AWESOME day watching a lunge-feeding #humpback whale with a group of bottlenose #dolphins off Sandy Hook!!
#labordayweekend is going to be #HUGE!!! Don’t miss out!!!

Belmar Beach NJ
#whalewatching #whales #whaleday #laborday #njwhales

Jumping fish, Sharks and Whales, Oh My!

What an awesome day with Jersey Shore Whale Watch today! We left the heat of land for cool ocean breezes and headed south towards where we saw the humpback yesterday. History does repeat itself and we found our whale just little bit north of where he was yesterday. Today we found him just off of Normandy Beach. But we had an exciting adventure on our way there when we spotted a Hammerhead shark swimming at the surface! Usually they surface for just a few seconds but this shark was swimming at the surface for quite a while. This enabled everyone on the boat to get plenty of photos and videos of this very rare sighting. You can just imagine how exited all the kids were! “Today was the most fantastic day ever!” said one of our junior passengers. And this was before we even found our whale! The humpback
we saw today was number 172, the same whale we saw yesterday. He was very close to shore today and gave us some great tail shots. Everyone was thrilled!! Another awesome day on the ocean with Jersey Shore Whale! Come on out and join the fun!! Book your trip today!

Trish DeVoe, Naturalist, Jersey Shore Whale Watch

Today was another great day of whale watching we weren’t 16 miles north of the cost of New Jersey to the area that we’ve been very successful up in Sandy Hook where it was just a couple miles off the beach to Wells possible mother and calf. Check out our super cute whale slapping video, listen to the sounds great day.

Join us soon we guarantee you’ll see a whale with us on JSWW HTTps://jerseyshorewhalewatchingtour.com no one else guarantees it you’ll see you’re well we don’t take any discount coupons we do promise you that you only have to pay us one so that we guarantee you’ll see well if you don’t see you’re well and your trip you come out again for free of course you have to come out for again for free during the same year so book your trip now.
August September October are fantastic months for whale watching a New Jersey we hope to see you soon

Our First Concert of 2021 Whale Watching Season is
We will go whale watching and listen to the BSTREET BAND

A Big Rooney Productions Presents

free beer tasting and raw clam bar just added!

June 29th 6pm
Click the name to order tickets only a few left
THE BSTREET BAND AND SPECIAL GUEST
Belmar Marina, buy tickets now the boat capacity will be limited so there is plenty of room, for whale watching and 2 big sets by The BSTREET BAND.

Our last concert and whale trips all sold out so don’t wait!

Here are some photos from the trip we did with another band in 2019 on the same boat https://jerseyshorewhalewatchingtour.com/2019/09/awesome-whale-watching-trip-sept-8th-special-event-was-amazing-photos/

Book online now!

Here are some photos from today trip we saw whales and dolphins

It turned out to be a beautiful day on the ocean today!  The fog finally lifted and the sun came out. It didn’t take us long to find some dolphins but our main focus was finding whales.  And we found a whale just a few miles north right off the coast of Asbury Park. Danielle, our naturalist, quickly identified the whale and it was no ordinary whale.  This whale made national news last summer because he was entangled in a mess of buoys and fishing line of the coast of Rockaway, NY.   The amount of fishing gear entangled around the whale’s tail weighed over 4,000 lbs and was essentially anchoring the whale in place.  The whale could barely lift its head out of the water to breathe.  It took 3 days and several conservation rescue organizations including the US Coast Guard to free the whale.  The whale suffered lacerations all over its  body and deep lacerations on its tail.  They were hopeful but not sure if the whale was going to survive its injuries.  We are happy to report that this whale did survive and has returned to the feeding grounds at the Jersey Shore!  This whale has an amazing rescue story and it was amazing to see him today!  Come on our whale watching trips and maybe you can see him, too!  We have a large, comfortable boat, air conditioned cabin, and friendly crew.  Great family fun! Book your trip today and make memories to last a lifetime! We are whale watching 7 days a week get tickets now

June 17, 2021
Thursday’s Whale Watching Report

Jersey Shore Whale Watch
Monmouth County, NJ

Today we saw a large pod of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and we saw one humpback whale.

It was a beautiful day out on the ocean today! We spotted a very large, active pod of dolphins as soon as we got out in the ocean.  After getting plenty of photos of the dolphins, we headed north towards Asbury Park. It wasn’t long before we found a humpback whale.  The whale gave us plenty of photo opportunities as he remained pretty close to the surface the whole time. There was also an abundance of bunker all around. Bunker fish are Atlantic menhaden, small fish that school together that the whales love to feed on. Everyone had a great time! Don’t miss out, book your trip with us soon! Whale watching is a fun family event. It’s good for all ages from very young children to seniors, everyone enjoys a day on the ocean. Beautiful weather, seeing whales and dolphins off the coast of Belmar, Avon, Asbury Park, all across New Jersey. The boat is handicap accessible, with two full-size bathrooms and a kitchen, you can buy snacks on board and your own food and drinks. Call us today at 732.450.6003 or book online. You can also order our merchandise online at www.billmckim.com

Jersey Shore …………. Whale Watch

June 16 Whale Watching trip report Monmouth County NJ

Wednesday whale watching trip report june 16th 2021

We saw
Bottlenose Dolphins
Minke Whale
2 Humpback Whales
1 Thresher shark

Today was a great day on the ocean off the coast of Monmouth County NJ, all of this while you can still see the coastline, join us soon on Jersey Shore Whale Watching Tour

Wednesday night photos 6pm Asbury Park, Owen has been on our whale watching trips, he took these great images yesterday

Wednesday was a great day for whale sighting along the coastline of Monmouth County , yesterday Asbury Park, Ocean Grove Avon by the seas there were whale sightings , we have two trips this weekend join us
Join us soon and see them in the wild right along the coastline our boats go from now till November with the best months being June July August

https://twitter.com/CaffeinatedMona/status/1392601088616960002?s=20

Saturday it was great to be out on the ocean, nice size group huge comfortable heated boated lol, we saw some Dolphins no whales, everyone that was on the trip gets our whale check free trip pass to use , hopefully the weather improves quickly. The bait fish that the whales love need a little bit warmer water temperature than we have currently but that could change with just a few days of nice weather so I think warm the bait fish will come in close to shore and then the whales will come in for feeding! Https://jerseyshorewhalewatchingtour.com

We have tons of new fresh beautiful heavy weight t-shirts and sweatshirts with some pretty cool designs! take a look .
These are the same shirts and sweatshirts we sell on the boats! Getone now support Jersey Shore Whale Watch!
Thanks
Bill

We covered 45 miles of ocean going up and down the coast of New jersey the captain even gave us extra time.We did not see a whale but we did see 100 dolphins sea turtles and more, t was a long day on the ocean im tired!

I wanted to shar with all of you our first whale watching trip in 2018, I think there were 6-8 people on the boat, its even before i had met our naturalist Dannielle. I want to offer anyone that is in these photos a free trip this year. So take a look and see if you know any of these people. I still remember that day the fluke slapping of the whale how loud it was out there on the quiet ocean. it ws amazing. I am really glad I got to share that special day with my son Billy.

Sept 6th photos Belmar whale watching tour

We had a great whale watching trip nice group of people. We saw whales off of Deal New Jersey two of them I will post a few photos that our naturalist took on the trip. i WAS CELEBRATING A BIG 18TH BIRTHDAY OF OUR SONS IN Hoboken.We had a 94 year old whale watching fan that was able to climb and wanted to onto the 2nd floor deck to view the whales!. No excuses just do it! 2 great months of whale watching season ahead of us get your friends togeter and plan a day on the ocean. Our whale watching trips are 3 hours long.Please support us with your tshirt purchases at the boat.