Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center's History

“Thar she blows!” were the famous words shouted in excitement by Captain Ron when he spotted a humpback’s spout. The tradition started in 1987 when Captain Ron Robbins and his partner Captain Jim Cicchitti began the search for whales and dolphins on boat trips from our original location at 1286 Wilson Drive. Capt. Ron was the face of the business and the vision for eco-tourism originated on his fishing vessel, the Holiday; Capt. Ron brought the Holiday from Sea Isle to Cape May. As the business grew, Capt. Jim brought the Starlight and Twilight over from Wildwood Crest to accommodate the overflow and eventually, Capt. Ron and Capt. Jim partnered in adding an additional vessel the Capt. Sharkey.

Capt. Ron and Capt. Jim’s bold move to offer eco-friendly dolphin and whale watching cruises pioneered eco-tourism in New Jersey. Along with the educational whale and dolphin tours, the trips also include talks on the history of Victorian Cape May, the lighthouses, and the United States Coast Guard. In 1994, the recognizable “cat” M/V Whale Watcher, was painted and used as the main vessel. Capt. Ron and Capt. Jim also laid the foundation for the marine mammal research initially starting photo identification in conjunction with Richard Mallon Day. Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center still carries out photo identification today. We are the only research center to keep an active account and catalogue of the migration of whales and dolphins that come into the area. Today, you will find an interactive touch tank, a marine debris station, and college interns on board.

Capt. Ron dedicated 25 years to eco-tourism, retiring in 2006. The impact that Capt. Ron had on eco-tourism in Cape May can be seen across New Jersey and Capt. Jim pledges to continue Capt. Ron’s legacy that they started together so many years ago.