September 29th 2024

A boat full of unsuspecting spectators lucked out with a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the Jersey Shore.

The Cape May Whale and Research Center says they spotted a blue whale, the largest living animal in the world, earlier this month.  While humpbacks and fin whales are common sights in the waters off Cape May County, blue whales are far more rare.

"This rare event illustrates the incredible ecosystem off our coast," the research center said.

Passengers got a front-row seat to the incredible sight during a 24-hour pelagic trip along the coast of Cape May on September 14.

Photos from onboard captured the majestic creature as it swam by the boat.

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(Rare blue whale)

(Rare blue whale)

(Leaping dolphin)

(Fin whale breaching the surface)