Planning a visit to Virginia’s Eastern Shore? Don’t miss the unforgettable experience of Chincoteague boat tours, where wild ponies, dolphins, bald eagles, and stunning sunsets come together for a tour that’s as magical as it is educational.
Why Take a Chincoteague Boat Tour?
Chincoteague Island is one of the few places in the U.S. where you can see wild ponies in their natural habitat. Local boat tours bring you up close—without disturbing the wildlife—and are guided by experienced captains who know the island’s history, ecology, and folklore.
- See the wild ponies of Assateague up close
- Spot dolphins, osprey, herons, and bald eagles
- Capture unforgettable photos of sunsets over the marsh
- Enjoy narrated tours filled with island stories
- Relax in shaded, comfortable seating
Who Are Chincoteague Boat Tours For?
Everyone! But especially:
- 📸 Photographers looking for scenic wildlife shots
- 👨👩👧 Families searching for things for kids to do in Chincoteague
- 🌅 Couples wanting a peaceful sunset cruise
- 🌿 Nature lovers who want to explore Virginia’s coastal ecosystem
Best Time of Day for a Boat Tour
While morning and midday cruises are great, many guests prefer our sunset cruise for its cooler temps, golden light, and peaceful ambiance. Ponies tend to graze more actively in the evening—giving you the best chance to observe them in action.
Highlights of a Chincoteague Boat Tour
- ✔️ Southern & Northern Pony Herd sightings
- ✔️ Chincoteague Lighthouse views
- ✔️ Barrier island landscapes and marshland ecology
- ✔️ Local history and tall tales from your captain
- ✔️ Chance encounters with sea turtles and dolphins
Book Early—Especially in Summer!
Tour seats fill quickly in July during the annual Chincoteague Pony Swim. Whether you’re here for that or just passing through, it’s best to book your boat tour early to lock in your spot.
Top Chincoteague Boat Tour Providers
- Barnacle Bill’s Wild Pony Boat Tours — Best for narration and family-friendliness
- Daisey’s Island Cruises — Longtime family-run operator
- Saltwater Pony Tours — Private tours and flexible scheduling
Things to Bring on Your Tour
- 🧴 Sunscreen and sunglasses
- 📸 Camera or smartphone for pictures
- 💧 Water bottle
- 🧥 Light jacket for breezy evenings
- 🐎 Your curiosity and sense of wonder
Other Things to Do Near Chincoteague
Pair your boat tour with these top attractions:
- Assateague Island National Seashore
- Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge
- Museum of Chincoteague Island
- NASA Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center
Book Your Chincoteague Boat Tour Today
If you’re ready for a memorable day on the water, book your Chincoteague boat tour now and experience the beauty, history, and wildlife that make this place so special.
Whether you’re a first-timer or returning guest, you’ll leave with amazing photos, fun stories, and a deeper appreciation for this wild and wonderful place.
