Questions & answers
Everything you need to know before you come aboard. Still stuck? Call us at (609) 335-8589.
Getting here
Where do we board?
The Keyport Princess sails from 1 American Legion Dr, Keyport, NJ 07735. All open fishing trips, whale watching and Saturday cruises leave from here.
The Nighthawk sails from 2 Simon Lake Dr, Pier 1, Slip 7, Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716. Your confirmation will tell you which dock to use.
Is there parking?
Yes, there's plenty of parking at the dock.
When should we arrive?
Give yourself a little extra time to park and check in before departure. Boats leave on schedule.
Fishing
Do I need a fishing license?
No. You don't need a fishing license to fish with us.
Can I rent a rod?
Yes. Spinning and conventional rods rent on the boat for $20, cash only. That includes all your tackle for the day, including any rigs you lose. Bait is included in your fare. You're welcome to bring your own gear.
Can I buy tackle on board?
We carry a limited selection of tackle for sale on the boat.
What do you fish for?
We're best known for striped bass. We also fish for fluke, black sea bass, porgies and tautog (blackfish), depending on the season. See what's biting when.
On board
Is there shelter on the boat?
Keyport Princess: Yes. A large cabin with plenty of seating, so there's room for lots of people to get out of the sun, rain or wind whenever they need a break.
Nighthawk: Yes. A smaller cabin that fits about 12 people, plus a canopy over the back deck with room for about 12 more.
Is there food on the boat?
Keyport Princess: Yes. The galley sells basic food like hot dogs and chips, plus drinks. The galley is cash only.
Nighthawk: No. There's no galley, so please bring all your own food and drinks for private charters.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes. You're welcome to bring your own food and drinks, including alcohol. Just please drink responsibly and don't get unruly. The galley also sells food and drinks if you'd rather not pack anything (cash only).
What should I bring fishing?
Dress in layers, since it's cooler on the water, and wear non-slip shoes you don't mind getting dirty. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat.
Bring cash for rod rentals and the galley. No need for a cooler for your catch, because we hold the fish for you. If you bring a cooler for food and drinks, please keep it a reasonable size.
Want live bait during striped bass season? Bring bunker snags to catch your own.
What should I bring whale watching or on a cruise?
A layer or two, since it gets breezy on the water, especially in the evening. Sunglasses and sunscreen for the glare. Binoculars and a charged phone or camera.
Snacks are welcome, or grab something from the galley (cash only).
Booking & weather
How do I book?
Book any open trip online through our booking calendar. For private charters, call (609) 335-8589.
What happens if the weather is bad?
We sail rain or shine. A little rain or a choppy day won't cancel a trip. We only call off a trip when conditions are actually dangerous, like very high winds.
If the captain does cancel for weather, we'll reschedule you for another date. Weather cancellations are rescheduled, not refunded.
What if I get seasick?
Seasickness can happen, so please come prepared. Bring Dramamine if you think you'll need it. Unfortunately, unless there's a medical emergency, we can't return to the dock because someone is seasick.
Do you sell gift cards?
Yes. Buy a gift card online and the recipient can use it on any trip.