About Us
Passion for Adventure: About Wild Pony Tours
At Wild Pony Boat Tours, we’re proud to offer one of the most unique and unforgettable experiences on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Based in the heart of Chincoteague, our tours bring you up close to the island’s natural beauty, rich history, and of course—its famous wild ponies.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to experience the magic all over again, our mission is simple: to connect you with the wonder of this incredible place in a fun, respectful, and memorable way.
Here’s what makes our tours special:
- 🐎 Up-close views of Chincoteague’s wild ponies in their natural habitat
- 🦅 Frequent sightings of bald eagles, dolphins, ospreys, and more
- 🎙️ Live narration from experienced local captains who know the land, water, and legends
- 🌊 A relaxing 2-hour cruise through the scenic waterways of Chincoteague and Assateague
- 📚 Stories of island history, including the legendary Pony Swim, “Misty of Chincoteague,” and local life
- 🌿 A commitment to conservation and respectful wildlife viewing
- 🧡 A tour experience inspired by the legacy of “Barnacle” Bill Melvin, a beloved island storyteller
Whether you’re here for the wildlife, the views, or the stories, we look forward to showing you the best of Chincoteague—by water.
Narrated Island Tour
- $55 - Adults / $45 - Children
- 2 Hour Narrated Tour
Enjoy a narrated 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.Sunset Island Tour
- $55 - Adults / $45 - Children
- 2 Hour Narrated 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.
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.
- Bathroom Onboard
- Comfortable (Forward-facing) Seating
- Shade/Weather Canopy
- Narrated Tour
Remembering “Barnacle” Bill
Jan 24, 1940 – Jan 21, 2024
Born and raised on Chincoteague Island, “Barnacle” Bill Melvin was a true local legend. He and his family are well-known throughout the community for running Barnacle Bill’s Bait & Tackle Shop on Main Street—a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Bill was beloved for his larger-than-life personality and his gift for storytelling. Always quick with a laugh and a tale, he had a remarkable way of bringing Chincoteague’s history and wildlife to life. His deep knowledge of the island, its wild ponies, and its waterways made every tour with him a one-of-a-kind experience.
What set Bill apart wasn’t just his stories—it was the way he told them. Drawing from his own life as a Saltwater Cowboy, a waterman, and someone who lived through iconic moments like the 1962 Ash Wednesday Storm and the era of “Misty of Chincoteague,” he shared his memories with authenticity, humor, and heart.
A boat tour with Barnacle Bill wasn’t just a ride—it was a journey through the soul of Chincoteague. While Bill is no longer with us, his legacy lives on through the stories he shared and the unforgettable experiences he created. Today, Wild Pony Boat Tours is proud to carry on his tradition, led by a team that cares just as deeply about the island, its wildlife, and its people as Bill did. Every tour is a tribute to his passion, spirit, and love for Chincoteague.
