Nature Center Offers Maritime Wildlife Cruises

CAPE MAY — Join Nature Center of Cape May Program Director Sue Slotterback for a “Marine Life Discovery Cruise” aboard the Jersey Cape’s premier wildlife tour boat, the Skimmer. every Monday evening this summer
The comfortable, 40-foot Skimmer navigates through shallow saltmarsh waters, bringing participants nose to beak with the world’s largest colony of nesting Laughing Gulls.
The pristine salt marsh also contains one of New Jersey’s densest populations of nesting Ospreys. Nearly a dozen nests are visible at once! The striking Black Skimmer offers even more proof that some of our planet’s most exotic wildlife lives right here in New Jersey.
Other recent bird sightings include Peregrine Falcons, Northern Harriers, Tri-Colored Herons, Green Herons, Black and Yellow Crowned Night Herons and Glossy Ibis. Participants will discover a variety of marine life such as crabs and fish as well when Slotterback hoists the huge trawl net.
Those that suffer from sea sickness will find these trips on placid inland waters an enjoyable alternative to ocean waves. Trips aboard the Skimmer run rain or shine. Wonderful wildlife viewing occurs on days that are not fit for the beach.
The boat is covered for protection from sun and rain and a marine restroom is located on board. The Skimmer is partially handicapped accessible.
Marine Life Discovery Cruises are fun and educational for all ages. The tour fee is $26 for adults, discounted to $15 for children. Pre-registration is recommended at 609-884-3100.
The Skimmer leaves from Dolphin Cove Marina, across from the Two Mile Beach Unit of the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge on Ocean Drive between Cape May and Wildwood Crest.
In addition to the Monday evening cruises with the nature center, the Skimmer sails daily at 10 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and evenings at 6. Visit the Salt Marsh Safari website at skimmer.com to learn more.