Kayaking Chincoteague Pony Swim: 200 wild ponies up close

Watch 200 wild ponies cross the channel by kayak, herded by salt water cowboys

Kayak the Assateague Channel during the annual Chincoteague Pony Swim on July 28 or the Swim Back on July 30, paddling to viewing points where over 200 wild ponies cross from Assateague to Chincoteague. A guide positions you at Pony Point for the closest vantage, and you land at an exclusive point to watch the herd up close as local cowboys herd them down to the carnival grounds.

Step-by-step itinerary

Kayak to watch pony swim

• Kayak to Pony Point
• Watch wild ponies swim channel
• Disembark at landing point
• Observe ponies up close

The experience

The Chincoteague Pony Swim is in its 99th year, and kayak is the only way to reach the spots where larger boats cannot go. You paddle out to Pony Point and other prime positions in the channel, staying close enough to see the salt water cowboys working the herd as it crosses. The event draws over 200 wild ponies from Assateague, and the kayak vantage puts you at water level as they swim past. Your guide handles navigation and safety so you focus on the moment.

An exclusive landing point lets you disembark and stand on shore to watch the ponies arrive and be herded down toward the carnival grounds, where they'll be rounded up and auctioned. This is the closest view most people ever get of the event. The whole experience runs about three hours, timed to the swim itself. Kayak, life vest and all equipment are provided. You need only show up and paddle.

The Pony Swim happens July 28, 2027, and the Swim Back (the return journey) is July 30, 2027. Space fills fast, so book ahead. Children from age 5 are welcome, and the paddling suits all fitness levels. Service animals are allowed on the kayak.

What’s included

• Kayak, life vest and all paddling equipment.
• expert guide in English.
• positioning at prime viewing spots including Pony Point.
• exclusive landing point to watch the herd arrive and be herded ashore.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 06:00

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (5 to 11 years) · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupUp to 50

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. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 8 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Assateague Adventures

Is this one for you?Book the July 28 date if you want to see the ponies' first crossing from Assateague to Chincoteague. Choose July 30 if you prefer to watch them return after the auction. Both offer the same close-up kayak vantage, so pick whichever date fits your schedule on the island.

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 11 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

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 exactly happens during the Chincoteague Pony Swim that I'll see from the kayak?

Over 200 wild ponies swim the Assateague Channel while local salt water cowboys herd them across. From the kayak, you watch them enter the water and paddle alongside as they cross, then land at an exclusive point to see them arrive on the Chincoteague shore and be driven toward the carnival grounds for the annual roundup and auction.

Why is kayaking the best way to watch the pony swim instead of watching from shore?

Kayaks can reach Pony Point and other prime viewing spots in the channel where larger boats cannot go, putting you at water level and close enough to see the cowboys working the herd as it crosses. The shore viewing areas fill up and offer a distant perspective. The kayak vantage is the closest most people ever get to the event.

How long does the kayaking part take, and what's included in the price?

The experience runs about three hours. Kayak, life vest and all paddling equipment are provided. You bring yourself and your willingness to paddle. The guide handles navigation and safety, positioning you at the best viewing spots throughout the swim.

Is this suitable for someone who has never kayaked before?

Yes. The paddling suits all fitness levels, and the guide leads you to the viewing spots. Children from age 5 are welcome, and your guide ensures safety throughout. The focus is on the pony swim itself, not on paddling skill.

When does the Pony Swim happen, and is there a second chance to go?

The Pony Swim is July 28, 2027. The Swim Back (when the ponies return to Assateague after the auction) is July 30, 2027. Both dates offer the same kayak experience with the herd crossing the channel. Space is limited, so book in advance.