Birding By Boat on the Osprey
Traveler rating
4.9/5
Based on 931 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Birding By Boat on the Osprey worth booking?
Birding By Boat on the Osprey is a 2-hour experience in Cape May, United States, from $40 per person. It scores 88 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 931 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 88 / 100
- Rating
- 4.9/5 (931)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $40 per person
The Outty verdict
It is the top-ranked of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cape May, with an Outty Ranking of 88. At $40 it is priced in line with similar options (typically $43). Best for families and travelers short on time.
Prices and availability checked
We get views of the wildlife of the salt marsh that people almost never have an opportunity to see. We sail daily from April until October so we always know where we are likely to see the most interesting birds and with 25 years of experience running these tours we know where we are likely to have the best trip. Our route varies daily depending on conditions.
What you get
About this experience
We get views of the wildlife of the salt marsh that people almost never have an opportunity to see. We sail daily from April until October so we always know where we are likely to see the most interesting birds and with 25 years of experience running these tours we know where we are likely to have the best trip. Our route varies daily depending on conditions.
What's included
Included
- Binoculars
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Cape May
One block back behind Tony's Pizza. Turn at the sign for Mayers tavern which is just across the main road from the Lobster House restaurant. Parking is directly in front of you at the Miss Chris marina to the right of the pole with the birding by boat sign.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
One block back behind Tony's Pizza. Turn at the sign for Mayers tavern which is just across the main road from the Lobster House restaurant. Parking is directly in front of you at the Miss Chris marina to the right of the pole with the birding by boat sign.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Tue, Thu
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Cape May Back Bay LLC
Know before you go
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Service animals allowed
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Wheelchair accessible
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 917 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
917 verified traveler reviews for Birding By Boat on the Osprey. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Request for more than 25% tip
See Road8777 below and Capt’s response which contains many inaccuracies. I recognize that most people give a five star review and I don’t doubt them. Perhaps it was an off day, but the request for an additional tip was the icing on the cake.
Response from the operator: Again sorry you didn't enjoy yourself. But everything I listed was absolutely the truth. You are welcome to it, disparaged my personality or the behavior of customers because that's an opinion but facts are facts. We do cut off the bookings at seventy five percent of the coast guard authorized capacity. it can feel crowded although the customers usually work together well. But it is never overbooked. There are thirteen windows that open on the boat plus the front deck. Patti washes the windows before every single trip. The windows get salty in the wind. We specifically request that people share their time on the front deck and that they come in after, they've been out there for a little while. We do that every day and every trip. I did get to the bottom of the texting Which you took as a request for an additional tip. I contacted Peek which is my ticketing company and this was their response. They send out a review request to every customer, two hours after the trip. Every customer gets the same text message. They added a link at the bottom, if a customer wanted to provide a tip. There is no suggestion of additional and they have no knowledge If the customer receiving the text had previously tipped. They say they just provide it in case somebody was on the trip and wanted to use it after. This was done without my knowledge and to the best of my knowledge, this has never been used. This was not a part of the email that is sent out by the company I thank you for bringing this to my attention even though the use of the word additional was not actually part of it because that's not how we handle tips and I requested that it be removed. If you would like i would be happy to refund your original tip since you obviously did not have a tip worthy experience and if somebody had actually asked me for an additional tip after I had a less than enjoyable trip, I would also be annoyed. It's up to you. I promise you I will not use the information to contact you in any other way other than the refund.
via Tripadvisor
10/10
Was an amazing experience! We went for my sister’s bachelorette party. The crew was super friendly and educated. They knew exactly where to go and where to find the birds. We learned so many new things from them. 10/10 recommend to anyone interested!
via Tripadvisor
Overcrowded Boat - Few Vantage Points
Boat was overcrowded (read: overbooked). Unfortunately, many were inconsiderate passengers who blocked (and claimed) open windows or hogged front deck without rotating in and out. Closed windows were very dirty so the open windows or front deck were the only clear vantage points. Crew should have periodically asked people to rotate around the boat. Naturalist was very friendly and informative when you could hear her. She was the highlight. Capt had an uptight personality. I gave a confirmed, upfront 25% tip upon booking and received a text after the ride asking if I wanted to add more to that. Ew.
Response from the operator: I'm sorry you didn't enjoy your trip but I am glad you enjoyed the naturalist. We have a very popular trip to see the birds especially at this time of the year. I have never noticed our customers to be inconsiderate or claim windows. And I've always found them to be quite helpful and cooperative to people having difficulty with finding birds through any of the thirteen open windows. The windows get washed before every trip But it is difficult to look through the closed portion of the open windows because there is a lot of salt spray on the closed portion of the open windows during weather with wind like we've been having the last couple of weeks. We do not overlook. We cut off booking at 75 percent of our USCG capacity to allow more room for the customers. We rotate the boat so everyone gets a chance and people rotate on and off the front deck as we request. I can't say we have had a single other person not able to get to an open window. Apparently, after further investigation, the ticketing company attaches a link in the text asking for a review where you could choose to tip after the trip for anyone that is so inclined. I was unaware of the existence of the text because I thought they only used email which does not provide that information. To the best of my knowledge, no one has ever used this feature. Everyone gets the same text. the company has no idea who has or has not previously tipped. And there is certainly no mention of additional tips nor is there an option to remove The link for people that have already tipped. again I was completely unaware of this entire feature and have had the link removed. Nobody asked you for an additional tip. there merely was a link and now there's not even that.
via Tripadvisor
A wonderful evening.
We have done this before, and the naturalist on this one made it a standout experience. We appreciate her dedication to and advocacy for the birds that she shared with us. We always enjoy a boat trip when we go birding and this is one of the best.
Response from the operator: Thank you for joining us on the Osprey. Patti has really become an advocate for the Osprey(the bird), and she backs it up with data collection, nest, rebuilding and replacement and assistance with monitoring to look at the health of our nesting birds.
via Tripadvisor
Excellent
Nice trip before the Nor’easter on Sept 25, 2026
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Tue, Thu
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 326
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Cape May Back Bay LLC, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 83.5 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Cape May Back Bay LLC runsWhy this scores 88
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Birding By Boat on the Osprey: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Cape May.
How does Birding By Boat on the Osprey compare to similar tours in Cape May?
+
It is the top-ranked of the 7 similar experiences we compared in Cape May, with an Outty Ranking of 88. At $40 it is priced in line with similar options (typically $43). Best for families and travelers short on time.
Who is Birding By Boat on the Osprey best for?
+
It suits families and travelers short on time best, based on its 2-hour length, all-ages access and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Is Birding By Boat on the Osprey good value?
+
It is fairly priced. It starts at $40, close to the $43 typical for similar experiences in Cape May.
How much does Birding By Boat on the Osprey cost?
+
Prices start at $40 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Cape May usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Birding By Boat on the Osprey take?
+
Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Cape May is not rushed.
Is Birding By Boat on the Osprey worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 88 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 931 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Cape May, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Birding By Boat on the Osprey?
+
Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Birding By Boat on the Osprey suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Birding By Boat on the Osprey?
+
Around 326 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Cape May can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
+
Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Cape May and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Birding By Boat on the Osprey start and how do I get there?
+
The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Cape May within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Cape May?
+
Cape May, NJ packs its best experiences into walkable neighborhoods, local food, and day trips nearby. Outty ranks every bookable tour and activity in Cape May by rating quality, review depth, booking demand and value, so you can see the standouts before you book. On Outty we rank every Cape May experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include 2-Hour Sunset Safari Eco Cruise on the Osprey from Cape May, Wetlands Safari Eco-Cruise in Cape May (Osprey Birding By Boat), Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise from Cape May. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Cape May?
+
Spring and fall bring the best weather and lighter crowds in Cape May, while summer has the widest choice of tours and evening activities. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Cape May?
+
Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
+
Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Birding By Boat on the Osprey?
+
Included: Binoculars. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Birding By Boat on the Osprey?
+
One block back behind Tony's Pizza. Turn at the sign for Mayers tavern which is just across the main road from the Lobster House restaurant. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Birding By Boat on the Osprey offered in?
+
It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Birding By Boat on the Osprey?
+
Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Birding By Boat on the Osprey wheelchair or stroller accessible?
+
The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible; and Transportation options are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Birding By Boat on the Osprey if the weather is bad?
+
This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Birding By Boat on the Osprey?
+
Across 931 reviews averaging 4.9 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Birding By Boat on the Osprey.
Pick your date
