Cape May Lighthouse tours set sail starting June 16

Written by Staff Reports Friday, June 15, 2012 01:00 am

Cape May

CAPE MAY- All aboard the Cape May Whale Watcher for a lighthouse adventure on the Delaware.

The first 2012 Delaware Bay Lighthouse Adventure, co-sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) and the Cape May Whale Watcher, will set sail on Saturday, June 16 at 10 a.m.

These seven-hour historic lighthouse cruises are aboard the original boat in the fleet, the Cape May Whale Watcher. The boat is more than 110 feet in length, 23 feet wide, with two decks, and has an air-conditioned and heated cabin, restrooms and snack bar.

View historic 19th century and the early 20th century lighthouses that aided ships sailing the treacherous mid-channel of Delaware Bay. Most of these lighthouses are still operating, but many stand on pedestals surrounded by water and are not visible from land. Spend the day sailing past nine Delaware Bay lighthouses including the Cape May Lighthouse, Harbour of Refuge (Lewes), Delaware Breakwater East End (Lewes), Brandywine Shoal, Fourteen Foot Light, Miah Maull Shoal, Cross Ledge, Elbow of Cross Ledge and Ship John Light.

The cruise also includes narration on Delaware Bay lore and legend, and information on fishing and spawning grounds and the chance to see marine life, like dolphins and whales.

Admission is $99 and includes a complimentary breakfast of danish, donuts, bagels, toast, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and juice, as well as a complimentary lunch, which consists of a combination of their classic cold menu. A cash bar is available. Seating is limited to 175 passengers.

The Delaware Bay Lighthouse Adventures are approximately six or seven-hour voyages of discovery and adventure on the Delaware Bay. The Cape May Whale Watcher departs from the Miss Chris Marina, Second Avenue and Wilson Drive. Trip itineraries are subject to change or cancellation due to weather and sea conditions.

Additional Delaware Bay Lighthouse Adventures will be offered on July 14, Aug. 18 and Sept. 15. A special five-hour trip is offered Oct. 14 for the New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge aboard the new Spirit of Cape May at $85 per person.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call 884-5404 or (800) 275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.