Cape May isn’t just a pretty seaside town; it’s a place where you can enjoy a memorable dinner with a view, on the water, or amid the local wildlife. What makes these experiences stand out is their blend of good food, stunning scenery, and unique opportunities to see dolphins, whales, and the Cape May Lighthouse.
Our favorites include a relaxing Dinner Cruise with Dolphin Watching that combines wildlife viewing with a sunset sail, and a lovely Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Cape May that offers a buffet on the open Atlantic. Both are excellent choices for travelers seeking a special evening out.
If you’re looking for a way to blend good food with scenic views and wildlife, these two options deliver. They’re perfect whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy Cape May from a different perspective. Keep reading to find out which one suits your style and schedule best.
Quick Overview
Our list of top dinner experiences in Cape May features two standout boat tours that combine dining with sightseeing. The Dinner Cruise with Dolphin Watching earns high marks for its wildlife sightings, sunset views, and friendly service, all for $89.95 per person.
Meanwhile, the Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Cape May offers a buffet dinner on a spacious boat, with a focus on scenic coastal views and the possibility of dolphin sightings, priced at $84 per person. Both tours last about two hours and feature stunning sunset vistas.
Now, let’s explore each one in detail to help you decide which dinner cruise fits your interests and budget.
1. Dinner Cruise with Dolphin Watching from Cape May
This dinner cruise with dolphin watching offers a perfect blend of wildlife, scenery, and good food. For around $90 per person, you’ll spend about two hours on a boat cruising Delaware Bay, with the chance to see dolphins, whales, and other marine life. The tour includes a buffet dinner and parking at the marina, making it a stress-free way to enjoy Cape May from the water.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to spot dolphins and whales in their natural habitat — a true highlight for families and wildlife enthusiasts. The route takes you past landmarks like the Cape May Lighthouse, Sunset Beach, and Wildwood Beach, with excellent vantage points for sunset photos.
The reviews praise the friendly crew, delicious food, and the memorable sightings — one even mentions a “beautiful sunset” with dolphins jumping nearby. The buffet is well-organized, and special dietary needs like garlic allergies are accommodated.
This tour is best suited for those who want a relaxed evening, wildlife lovers, and anyone eager for memorable sunset views. Note that while dolphin sightings are common, they are not guaranteed. Still, the experience of being on the water at dusk makes this a worthwhile choice.
Bottom Line: A scenic, wildlife-rich dinner cruise perfect for families and nature lovers. It combines good food, stunning views, and the thrill of spotting marine life.
2. Cape May: Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Cape May
On the Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Cape May, you get a relaxed two-hour ride into the Atlantic, with a buffet dinner that includes dessert. Priced at $84 per person, this cruise emphasizes scenic coastal views, with the chance to see dolphins and other marine life if you’re lucky.
The focus here is on the stunning sunset over the Atlantic, which paints the sky in vibrant colors, making it ideal for photographers and romantics alike.
This tour stands out because of its spacious outdoor deck and the quality of the buffet, which reviewers frequently praise for its variety and taste.
During the cruise, you’ll be able to admire the New Jersey shoreline and watch the sun dip below the horizon, creating perfect photo opportunities. While sightings of dolphins are possible, the main draw is the breathtaking sunset and the scenic cruise experience.
Suitable for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a leisurely evening with good food and scenery, this cruise offers a more laid-back vibe compared to the wildlife focus of the first option. If you’re seeking a classic sunset experience with the chance for marine life viewing, this is an excellent pick.
Bottom Line: A scenic Atlantic cruise with a buffet dinner, focusing on sunset views and coastal scenery — ideal for a romantic night or a relaxing evening.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two dinner cruises, consider your priorities. If wildlife sightings and a lively atmosphere are your main goals, the Dinner Cruise with Dolphin Watching offers the best chance to see dolphins and whales while enjoying a scenic sunset. It’s perfect for families or wildlife enthusiasts.
If you prefer a more relaxed, scenic experience with spectacular sunset views over the Atlantic, then the Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Spirit of Cape May provides a calm, comfortable setting with high-quality buffet dining. It’s well-suited for couples or small groups seeking a romantic evening.
Think about your budget, the kind of scenery you want, and whether wildlife viewing or sunset photography is more your style. Book early, especially in peak seasons, as these cruises are popular and fill quickly.
Cape May offers a variety of memorable dinner experiences on the water. For wildlife lovers, the dolphin-watching cruise is unbeatable. For those seeking a beautiful sunset with good food and a relaxed vibe, the Spirit of Cape May cruise is a top choice. Both provide a different but equally charming way to enjoy the town’s coastal beauty.
Whichever you choose, you’re in for a special evening. Now’s the time to plan and reserve your spot — these tours fill up fast, especially on warm summer nights.