Summer belongs on the water — and how you choose to spend your time out there makes all the difference.
For any Philadelphian headed to Cape May or Wildwood this summer, South Jersey Tiki might be just what you’re looking for if you’re set on cruising the seas in style.
The BYO food and drink cruise charter company currently has four boats in its fleet, with options for 6 passengers (Tiki 1), 12 passengers (Tiki 2 and Hula Girl), or 18 passengers (the Big Kahuna.) Have an even bigger crew? More than one boat can be rented for a 2, 3, or even 4 boat party on the bay as well, with cruises lasting anywhere from 90 minutes to three hours based on what you book.
All boats are equipped with speakers, onboard bathrooms, tiki-themed decor, seating and captains overseeing the rides—plus some toys to enjoy if you choose to anchor at one of the designated spots and truly enjoy the full experience of the water (available on certain charters).
The newest boat, the Hula Girl, additionally dons a double-decker slide experience, while the Big Kahuna houses a wrap-around bar and additional crew.
There are a few different experiences that visitors can opt for to customize their cruise, including bar hopping charters on the water, trips to a sandbar called 'Champagne Island,' and swimming off the Big Kahuna.
2026 summer departure times span sunrise cruises (coffee and mimosas encouraged) from 5 to 6:30 a.m., morning cruises from 8 to 10 a.m., Midday Cruises from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., afternoon cruises from 3 to 6 p.m. and sunset cruises from 7 to 9 p.m. Cruise pricing starts around $400 and can reach up to $730 based on the boat you choose and time (and while tipping isn’t required, leaving around 20 percent for the captain is the norm).
Guests booking a cruise with South Jersey Tiki are encouraged to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to allow time for boarding, paperwork, and a safety briefing from the captain. (Note, late arrivals may lose time on the water, as trips return to the dock promptly to keep the day’s schedule on track.) Passengers are welcome to bring their own food, snacks, and beverages — including alcohol for those 21 and older with valid identification — and a cooler is available onboard for guests to bring their own ice.
The atmosphere onboard is meant to be relaxed and enjoyable, making it a great choice for families as well as groups of friends who want to unwind on the water together. Kids are welcome as long as they’re with an adult, and little ones 10 and under will need to keep a life jacket on during the ride. The boat comes equipped with a bathroom, shaded seating under an awning, and Bluetooth speakers so guests can take over the playlist and set the mood for their own experience.
Smoking, THC products, and any drugs are strictly off-limits onboard and the chartering service notes that anyone who tends to get seasick should plan ahead and bring their own medication before boarding.
South Jersey Tiki departs from several South Jersey locations, including Lakeview Docks in Wildwood Crest, Bay Pointe Marina and Utsch’s Marina in Wildwood, and The Port Marina in Cape May. All captains are USCG certified with First Aid and CPR certifications.
In short, South Jersey Tiki offers a way to experience the Jersey Shore that feels equal parts relaxed and celebratory, whether it's for a bachelorette, special occasion or just because. With customizable routes, BYO convenience, and boats built for everything from small groups to full-on floating parties, it’s less about getting from point A to point B and more about enjoying every moment in between.
To learn more information on South Jersey Tiki, visit southjerseytiki.com
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