Barnacle Bill's

Wild Pony

Boat Tours

TRUSTED BY FAMILIES FOR GENERATIONS

Chincoteague Boat Tours

Set sail on a relaxed, story-rich, narrated cruise through the southern waters of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. Our route stays close to the heart of the island—where history, wildlife, and scenery come to life. With expert narration and a family-friendly pace, we focus on the southern pony grounds where sightings are common (but always wild!). Whether you spot ponies up close or from afar, you’ll leave with unforgettable views, entertaining stories and a deeper understanding of this one-of-a-kind coastal world.

We offer two unforgettable experiences:

  • A Chincoteague Pony Tour filled with local stories, wildlife and wild pony sightings, along with fascinating island history as told by your captain.

  • A relaxing Chincoteague Sunset Boat Tour, perfect for winding down as the sky glows over the marsh and bay along with the fascinating local stories told by the captain and crew.

Whether you’re here for the wild ponies, peaceful scenery, or just a great time on the water, our tours are fun, entertaining and designed to leave you with lasting memories.

Discover our Exclusive

Chincoteague Picture book

Exclusive to Barnacle Bill’s: A Visual Guide to the Stories We Tell

At the end of your Wild Pony Boat Tour, we hand out our Picture Book—a rich visual companion designed to enhance the stories you’ve just heard. This book is filled with hundreds of historic and modern photographs that line up with the narration from your captain and mate, helping bring Chincoteague’s past and present into sharper focus.

It’s packed with fascinating facts, local history, and hard-to-find information that ties directly to the moments you just experienced on the water. 

Wild Pony Boat Tours Exclusive Picturebook
Over 50 pages of information. Fun for the whole family!

Saltwater Stories & Scenic Pony Cruise

FULLY NARRATED, STORY-RICH BOAT TOUR

Enjoy a narrated scenic and nature cruise around Chincoteague and Assateague Islands

See wild ponies, dolphins, bald eagles, and other local wildlife as you explore the scenic and peaceful waterways with an expert, knowledgeable captain that will share tons of stories about the area and the ponies.

Sunset Island Stories & Pony Cruise

FULLY NARRATED, STORY-RICH BOAT TOUR

Unwind on a peaceful sunset cruise around Chincoteague and Assateague Islands

Relax as the sky glows over the water and enjoy the chance to see wild ponies, dolphins, bald eagles, and other local wildlife — all while soaking in the beauty of golden hour on the bay.

The Lucky Lady

Our Boat - Lucky Lady

Comfortable, shaded, and designed for sightseeing. Whether you’re chasing sunsets or spotting wild ponies, this boat delivers a smooth and unforgettable ride.

Comfortable, shaded, and designed for sightseeing, The Lucky Lady is the perfect vessel for exploring the scenic waters of Chincoteague and Assateague. Whether you’re chasing sunsets or spotting wild ponies, this boat delivers a smooth and unforgettable ride every time.

Pony Blog

Wild ponies grazing peacefully on Assateague Island during a Chincoteague pony tour with Wild Pony Boat Tours

Top 10 Things to Do in Chincoteague, Virginia

Discover the top 10 things to do in Chincoteague, Virginia — from wild pony boat tours and scenic sunset cruises to fresh seafood, beach adventures, and must-see local attractions. Start your journey with Barnacle Bill’s Wild Pony Boat Tours, the island’s most unforgettable experience on the water.
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Wild Chincoteague ponies swimming across the channel, as seen during the annual pony swim and Wild Pony Boat Tours

Pony Boat Tours in Chincoteague – The Ultimate Guide

Discover everything you need to know about wild pony boat tours in Chincoteague, Virginia. Learn the best times to go, what to expect on the water, and why Barnacle Bill’s Wild Pony Boat Tours offers the most unforgettable way to see the island’s famous ponies, dolphins, and scenic views.
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Sunset view over Main Street in Chincoteague, a top attraction before or after your wild pony boat tour

Why Sunset Boat Tours in Chincoteague Are a Must-Do

Experience the magic of Chincoteague at golden hour with a sunset boat tour. Learn why Barnacle Bill’s Wild Pony Boat Tours offers the best views, peaceful vibes, and unforgettable sightings of wild ponies, dolphins, and coastal wildlife—all set against a breathtaking sunset.
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