Boat Tours of Chincoteague & Assateague: Wild Ponies

Wild ponies, ospreys and eagles from the water

A two-hour guided boat tour departing from Chincoteague takes you to Assateague Island to watch the famous wild ponies up close, along with ospreys, bald eagles, blue herons and dolphins. The tour includes a live English-speaking guide and binoculars to use. Bring sunscreen and a light jacket, as the water can be chilly. Service animals are welcome, and infants sit on an adult's lap.

Step-by-step itinerary

Boat tour to see wildlife and ponies

• Board boat for two-hour tour
• View wild Assateague ponies
• Spot ospreys and bald eagles
• Observe blue herons and migratory birds
• Look for dolphins along the way
• Learn about island flora and fauna

The experience

Two hours on the water gets you close to the Assateague ponies that draw visitors back year after year. The boat also passes through habitat where ospreys, bald eagles, blue herons and other migratory birds stop as they travel south, so the wildlife changes with the season. A live guide narrates what you're seeing and shares information about the island's natural history and the animals that depend on it.

Binoculars are available on board, though many bring their own to get a better look at the herds and birds. The tour is small and personable, which is what keeps it from feeling like a crowded spectacle. Bring a light jacket (the water is cooler than you might expect), and sunscreen if you want it. Infants ride on an adult's lap, and the pace suits all fitness levels.

What’s included

• Live English-speaking guide.
• binoculars to use on board.
• small group setting.

Before you book

Days and timesThursday to SaturdayDepartures at 09:00 and 12:00

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (under 13)

GroupUp to 20 · max 6 per booking

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomeInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Saltwater Pony Tours

Is this one for you?The tour departs from Chincoteague, so if you're staying on the island or nearby without a car, you avoid the logistics of reaching Assateague on your own. The boat is your transport and your entry point to the wildlife.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (under 13).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What wildlife will I actually see on the Assateague boat tour?

The Assateague ponies are the main draw, and you'll get close to the herds from the water. Ospreys, bald eagles, blue herons and other migratory birds are also common, and dolphins show up in many cases. What you see shifts with the season and the time of year birds are migrating.

How long is the boat tour and when does it depart?

The tour runs two hours. Specific departure times aren't listed here, so contact the operator directly with your preferred date to confirm the schedule and book your spot.

Do I need to bring binoculars, or are they provided?

Binoculars are available to use on the boat, but you're welcome to bring your own if you have a pair you prefer. Either way, you'll have the tools to see the wildlife clearly.

What should I wear and bring for the boat tour?

Bring sunscreen and a light jacket, as it gets chilly on the water even on warm days. Wear whatever keeps you comfortable for two hours outside, and consider bringing a hat or sunglasses if you're sensitive to glare off the water.

Can I take a service animal on the boat tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour. Infants must sit on an adult's lap during the two hours on the water.