Birds and boats combine for the perfect overnight nature trip to Down Jersey, that area south of the Jersey Shore, known for its natural beauty and diversity. Our trip begins with a prime seat to view the largest purple martin migration stopover in the United States. Get ready to view hundreds of thousands of martins as we cruise the tidal marshes along the Maurice River on board the boat Bonanza II. The martins congregate each evening at dusk, then form into swirling murmurations as the sky darkens, ready to head off to a roosting site for the night. These martins feed for several weeks on the insect populations along the New Jersey-Delaware Bayshore, gaining fat to fuel their trip to their wintering grounds in Brazil. Interpreters from Citizens United to Protect the Maurice River will share their knowledge about these birds and their behavior during this three-hour cruise. Due to the size of the marsh, this purple martin stopover is only viewable by boat. Light snacks will be available. The Bonanza II is a 65′ long, 20′ wide head boat with a spacious, enclosed cabin with cushioned seating and restrooms.
Our bird and boat trip continues Saturday morning when we meet up with Captain Bob aboard the Osprey for a wetlands wildlife safari tour around Cape Island Creek Preserve, the southernmost salt marsh in New Jersey, and a critical migration and nesting spot. We may see rails, ospreys, migrant shorebirds, terns, gulls, herons, and other wildlife, as well as view the natural wonders of historic Cape May Harbor. The Osprey is a 37′ pontoon boat with an enclosed cabin with large viewing windows, a front deck with a railing, and a restroom on board. Our guides will be from the Cape May Bird Observatory, sponsored by the New Jersey Audubon Society. This cruise is 2.5 hours long.
Book your favorite hotel for a night of restful sleep. Oceanside Lodge in Marmora could be the most affordable, from a quick internet search. http://www.oceansidelodgenj.com/ (Rates may be less on third-party booking sites such as Hotels.com, $160 for a king bed, while supply lasts.)
Payment and Cancellation Policy: Payment is due online at the time of registration. Due to the nature of this trip, refunds will not be available after August 1. Through July 30, cancellations will receive a refund minus a 5% processing fee.
We can set up carpools from the Havre de Grace Park and Ride for Friday afternoon. People who choose to carpool should choose the same hotel to simplify driving.
- Our meeting location can be found in your registration confirmation email when payment is complete.
- Watch for additional details in a welcome email a few days before the date.
- You are responsible for your hotel reservation.
- Hotel and food costs are not included in the registration fee.
- Dress according to the weather. It is always cooler on the water and in the evening.
- Wear shoes with non-slip soles that can safely handle slippery surfaces.
- Bring water, snacks, sunblock, bug spray, and a camera with accessories.
- Bring binoculars, if you have them.
- Bring a first aid kit for your personal use.
- All events are held rain or shine. If any event is cancelled due to severe weather, dangerous conditions, or a weather emergency, you will receive an email or text. If you do not receive a weather-related email, the trip will proceed as planned.
For questions, please email Jayne at JAsh@marylandnature.org.
