Cape May: Sunset Salt Marsh Safari Cruise & Wildlife Views

Summary

Evening salt marsh cruise Cape May wildlife birdwatching

You’ll drift through Cape May’s salt marshes at sunset on a small-group eco cruise, spotting rare birds with help from local guides and sharing quiet moments as daylight fades. Binoculars are included so you won’t miss any of the action — just bring your curiosity and maybe an extra sweater.

What’s the experience like?

We were already gliding past the first patch of tall grass when someone pointed out a snowy egret — honestly, I’d never seen one that close before. The Osprey crew just handed us binoculars like it was no big deal, but I fumbled them anyway (I always do). Our guide, Captain Bob, knew every twist in the marsh behind Cape May and Wildwood. He kept calling out names — willets, oystercatchers — while the sky started turning gold and pink. There was this salty smell in the air, mixed with something sweet from the mudflats. I remember thinking how quiet it felt out there except for the birds and distant laughter from another boat.

I didn’t expect to get so into spotting birds, but it’s kind of contagious when everyone’s peering over the rail trying to catch a glimpse of something rare. At one point, a kid next to me shouted about a clapper rail (I had to ask what that even was), and Captain Bob grinned like he’d just won bingo. The boat was easy for everyone to move around — saw a stroller tucked in by the seats, and nobody seemed worried about getting around. The sun kept sinking lower until everything looked washed in orange light. It got cooler fast; wish I’d brought an extra layer. But honestly, I still think about that last stretch where we drifted quietly between two islands and all you could hear were wings flapping.

By the time we headed back toward shore, people were swapping stories about what they’d seen — herons fishing, some tiny sandpipers darting along the mud. Someone said they come out here every year just for this cruise. I can see why now. There’s something about being out on the water at sunset with strangers who start feeling like neighbors for two hours or so… not sure how to explain it better than that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Evening salt marsh wildlife cruise

• Board the Osprey boat
• Cruise through coastal salt marsh
• View secretive wetland birds
• Observe marine life near Cape May
• Return to dock after 2 hours

Top questions

Is this Cape May sunset safari cruise wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

Are binoculars provided during the salt marsh cruise?

Yes, binoculars are available for use throughout the tour.

How long does the Cape May eco cruise last?

The sunset safari eco cruise lasts approximately 2 hours.

Are infants or small children allowed on board?

Yes, infants can sit on an adult's lap or ride in a pram or stroller.

Does the route change depending on weather or conditions?

Yes, routes vary daily based on conditions for best wildlife viewing.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it's suitable for all physical fitness levels.

Are service animals permitted on this Cape May wildlife cruise?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

What’s included

Your evening includes a two-hour eco cruise through Cape May’s coastal salt marsh behind Wildwood with up-close views of rare wetland birds and marine life; binoculars are provided for everyone onboard so you won’t miss any action along the way before returning to shore as dusk settles in.