Ocean City: Sea Rocket Sunset Cruise & Harbor Drinks

Summary

Sunset colors, dolphin sightings and laughter on the Sea Rocket

You’ll grab your seat aboard the Sea Rocket in Ocean City’s harbor just before sunset, cruising past fishing boats and neon-lit bars while searching for dolphins in Assawoman Bay or the Atlantic. Enjoy drink packages onboard as you watch the city skyline glow — with local stories and unexpected moments along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the boat — literally. The captain had this look like he’d seen it all before, waving me over as I jogged up with my hair sticking to my forehead. Ocean City’s harbor was buzzing, gulls yelling at each other, and you could smell fried shrimp drifting over from one of those dockside bars. We squeezed into our seats (everyone gets their own, so no elbow wars), and that’s when the engine kicked in — louder than I expected, but somehow it felt right. There was a couple next to us arguing about which mansion belonged to “that guy from TV,” but our guide just grinned and pointed out some fishing boats instead.

The sun wasn’t down yet, but the sky already had this weird pink haze. We cruised past restaurants with neon signs flickering on, then out toward Assawoman Bay. Someone spotted a dolphin fin — or maybe it was just wishful thinking at first — but then there they were, actually real dolphins weaving through the water. The whole boat kind of fell quiet for a second except for some kid gasping behind me. I grabbed one of those new cocktails they serve onboard (they’ve got non-alcoholic ones too now), and honestly, sipping something cold while watching dolphins feels like cheating at life a little bit.

On the way back, everyone started talking more — maybe it was the drinks or just that golden hour light making people soft around the edges. Our guide told us stories about old storms hitting Ocean City (he swears one time a crab ended up in his shoe), and I found myself laughing with strangers about nothing in particular. When we finally turned toward shore, the skyline looked almost fake against that last bit of orange sky. I didn’t expect to feel anything special but yeah… sometimes you do.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset cruise on Sea Rocket

• Arrive 25 minutes early
• Board the Sea Rocket
• View fishing boats and harbor
• See surrounding mansions
• Search for dolphins
• Watch sunset over skyline
• Enjoy drinks onboard

Top questions

How long is the Sea Rocket sunset cruise in Ocean City?

The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour from departure to return.

Are drinks included on the Sea Rocket cruise?

The boat has a full liquor license; drink packages are available for purchase during checkout.

Do I need to arrive early for my reservation?

You must arrive 25 minutes early; the boat leaves exactly at scheduled time and does not wait for late arrivals.

Is there assigned seating on board?

Yes, every ticket holder has their own seat for the duration of the cruise.

Can infants join this Ocean City sunset cruise?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap throughout the trip.

Will we see dolphins during this day trip?

Dolphin sightings are possible in Assawoman Bay or the Atlantic Ocean but not guaranteed.

Is public transportation available near departure point?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby in Ocean City.

What’s included

Your ticket includes your own seat aboard the Sea Rocket for a one-hour sunset cruise around Ocean City’s harbor and out toward Assawoman Bay or Atlantic waters; enjoy access to onboard drink packages (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) and listen to local stories from your guide as you pass fishing boats and waterfront mansions before returning after sunset.