Chincoteague’s Up The Bay Pony and Wildlife Tour by Boat

Discover the Wild Ponies and Local Wildlife on the Chincoteague Boat Tour

The Chincoteague’s Up The Bay Pony and Wildlife Tour by Boat offers a captivating 2-hour journey through the waterways surrounding Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. Priced at $75 per person, this tour is renowned for its expert guide, a captain with over 40 years of sailing experience in these waters. It garners a perfect 5.0-star rating from over 520 reviews and is highly recommended by 100% of participants.

The tour departs from 2246 Curtis Merritt Harbor Drive in Chincoteague, Virginia, and features a mobile ticket system for easy access. The tour is suitable for most travelers and includes wheelchair and stroller accessibility. You can expect a flexible experience tailored to your interests and the chance to see wild ponies, eagles, pelicans, dolphins, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

While the tour lasts approximately 2 hours, many guests find it well worth the price, especially given the close encounters with ponies and abundant birdlife. It’s booked on average 37 days in advance, making it a popular choice for those planning ahead.

Key Points

• Price: $75 per person, with a 2-hour tour duration
• Location: Departs from Curtis Merritt Harbor in Chincoteague, VA
• Wildlife Sightings: Wild ponies, eagles, pelicans, dolphins
• Guide Expertise: Led by a captain with over 40 years of local experience
• Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller accessible; sunrise and sunset tours available
• Group Size: Limited to 6 travelers for a more personalized experience

Starting Point at Curtis Merritt Harbor in Chincoteague

The tour begins at 2246 Curtis Merritt Harbor Drive, a well-known meeting spot on Chincoteague Island. The small group size—up to 6 guests—ensures a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, allowing for personalized attention and flexible viewing opportunities. Guests are advised to arrive promptly, as the tour is designed for efficiency and comfort, with most of the boat in pristine condition and equipped for wildlife viewing.

The Itinerary: Exploring Assateague and Chincoteague Islands

The main stops include touring both southern and northern parts of Assateague Island on the Virginia side. The captain takes guests in small boats through narrow guts and waterways, getting as close as possible to the wild ponies and other animals.

A highlight is passing by the Pony Swim and the Assateague Lighthouse, both iconic sights that add to the adventure’s charm. Occasionally, the tour ventures into the open ocean in search of dolphins, creating a dynamic experience that combines land-based wildlife with marine encounters.

Most tours cover the entire bay area around Chincoteague, providing a rundown of the island’s natural beauty. The guide actively asks questions about guest expectations, ensuring the experience aligns with what each person hopes to see and learn.

The Captain’s Local Knowledge and Personal Touch

Captain Mike leads the tour, a native of the island with over 40 years of sailing experience. Reviewers consistently praise his knowledge, humor, and dedication, noting his efforts to maximize pony sightings and share stories about the area’s history and wildlife.

He’s known for going above and beyond, such as waiting if guests are delayed and lifting injured guests off the boat to keep them comfortable. His familiarity with pony names and behaviors makes the adventure more engaging, whether spotting a band of ponies or catching glimpses of bald eagles and dolphins.

Wildlife Encounters: Ponies, Birds, and Dolphins

Guests can expect to see wild Chincoteague ponies in their natural habitat, often up close and personal. Captain Mike works diligently to find multiple bands of ponies, ensuring a rich viewing experience.

Birdwatchers will appreciate sightings of eagles, pelicans, herons, and ospreys, often described as a highlight of the trip. Occasionally, dolphins are spotted leaping in the water, adding an exciting marine element to the tour.

The marshlands and waterways are teeming with life, and the guide’s commentary enriches every encounter. Some guests mention seeing Riptide, a well-known pony, in the marsh, which adds a special thrill to the day.

The Boat: Comfort and Practicality

The boat used for these tours is described as pristine and comfortable, with some reviews noting the absence of a top or cover. The tour often has the tops up during warmer months to provide shade, though some guests suggest that a cover would improve comfort on very sunny days.

The vessel’s small size allows for a more intimate experience and close-up wildlife viewing, which is a key benefit over larger tour boats. The pace of the ride remains smooth, even on windy days, thanks to the captain’s experience.

Accessible and Flexible Tour Options

This tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it a good choice for families or guests with mobility needs. The availability of sunrise and sunset tours offers options for different lighting and wildlife viewing opportunities, depending on the time of day you choose.

Guests can also cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexible planning. The small group size enhances the chance for personalized interaction and a quieter, more relaxed environment.

Why This Tour Excels Over Others

What makes the Up The Bay Pony and Wildlife Tour stand out is the expertise of the guide, particularly Captain Mike’s local knowledge and friendly demeanor. The consistency in high reviews reflects a reliable, engaging experience that emphasizes close wildlife encounters and informative storytelling.

Compared to other options, this tour’s personalized approach and dedication to pony sightings make it a top choice for visitors seeking both education and adventure. The cost is reasonable given the quality of experience and expert guidance.

Final Thoughts on the Chincoteague Wildlife Tour

This 2-hour boat tour offers a rich mix of wildlife sightings and scenic views around Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. The small group size combined with experienced local guides ensures a personalized and memorable encounter with wild ponies, birds, and marine life.

The price of $75 is fair considering the quality of the wildlife sightings and storytelling. The tour is well-suited for families, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who appreciate a relaxed, intimate boat ride with plenty of opportunities for animal viewing.

While the lack of a cover may be a minor comfort issue during peak sunshine, overall, the experience delivers exceptional value. Expect informative commentary, friendly service, and a genuine chance to connect with the island’s natural environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, making it appropriate for families and guests with mobility needs.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, providing ample time for wildlife viewing and sightseeing.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Guests frequently see wild ponies, eagles, pelicans, herons, ospreys, and sometimes dolphins.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 6 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour.

Are there specific times for sunrise or sunset tours?
Yes, sunrise and sunset tours are available, offering different lighting and wildlife viewing opportunities.

What should I bring?
Guests should consider bringing sunscreen, water, and appropriate clothing for the weather, as the boat may not have extensive shade.

Is the boat comfortable?
Yes, the boat is described as pristine and comfortable, with some reviews noting the possible absence of a cover, which can be addressed by the crew during warmer months.

What is the main focus of the tour?
The tour emphasizes wild pony sightings and wildlife education, with the captain actively working to maximize viewing opportunities.

Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely. The high ratings and reviews highlight this as a reliable choice for wildlife lovers and those interested in the natural beauty of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands.