Ocean City is a classic East Coast beach town known for its long sandy beaches, lively boardwalk, and family-friendly attractions. It’s also a great place for quick, memorable adventures that fit into an hour—whether you’re seeking high-flying thrills or peaceful boat rides. With so many options, it can be tough to pick the right one, especially if your time is limited. Fortunately, Ocean City offers a variety of 1-hour tours that cater to different interests and comfort levels, with activities ranging from parasailing to private booze cruises and pony rides near Assateague Island.
Choosing a short tour might feel like just a taste, but these experiences are often the highlight of a trip—giving you a fresh perspective and a story to tell. Whether you want to soar above the waves, cruise quietly along the shoreline, or spot wild ponies and dolphins, these tours deliver memorable moments without requiring a big time commitment.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find a list of the 3 best 1-hour tours in Ocean City. Each offers a different way to experience the area: from the thrill of parasailing with stunning aerial views, to a private booze cruise that lets you enjoy the sunset with friends, and a pony cruise near Assateague Island for animal sightings and scenic cruising. All are designed to give you a taste of Ocean City’s natural beauty and lively atmosphere in just an hour. Now, let’s explore each option in detail.
1. 1-Hour Ocean Parasailing Adventure In Ocean City, MD
At number one, the Ocean Parasailing Adventure offers a chance to soar hundreds of feet above the Atlantic Ocean. This activity is one of the most popular in Ocean City and provides breathtaking views of the coastline, beach, and beyond. For around $85 per person, you get roughly an hour of flight time, with options to go up in pairs or with a third person—perfect for sharing the experience with a friend or family member.
Safety is a priority here; the crew is known for their concern for passenger well-being, and they’ll call off the trip if weather conditions aren’t right. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the staff, with visitors mentioning how relaxing and beautiful flying over the water feels. For those interested in capturing the moment, photo packages are available for purchase.
What makes this tour stand out is the unique perspective it offers—seeing the beach and ocean from a vantage point few get to experience. It’s ideal for thrill-seekers, families with older children, or anyone wanting a quick but unforgettable view of Ocean City’s coast. The location is conveniently close to the boardwalk, making it easy to fit into a day of beachside activities.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a high-adrenaline, scenic adventure that takes you above the waves, this parasailing experience is hard to beat for its combination of safety, views, and value.
2. 1-Hour Private Party Happy Hour Booze Cruise in Ocean City, MD
At number two, the Private Party Happy Hour Booze Cruise is perfect if you want a relaxed, social experience on the water. This private boat tour is priced at about $190 for up to five people, making it a good value for a small group. The boat is a skiff, and the captain will take you where you want to go—whether that’s along the shoreline, past Assateague Island, or just cruising while enjoying drinks.
The tour is flexible; you can bring your own beverages (“BYOB”) and customize your route. Expect to see trees, sand, water, and possibly some wildlife like dolphins or ponies—especially if you sail south of the inlet to Assateague, where wild horses roam. The trip is perfect for sunset photos, celebrating a special occasion, or just enjoying a peaceful hour on the water with friends or family.
While the tour doesn’t currently have reviews, its private, customizable nature appeals to those who prefer a laid-back, intimate experience. It’s suitable for small groups looking for a low-key, scenic, and flexible outing.
Bottom Line: This private booze cruise is a great choice if you want a personalized, social experience on the water, with the chance to see wildlife and enjoy Ocean City’s scenic shoreline.
3. 1-Hour Private Party Assateague Island Pony Cruise in Ocean City
At number three, the Assateague Island Pony Cruise offers a chance to see the famed wild ponies of Assateague Island along with dolphins and other wildlife. Like the previous tour, it’s a private boat experience costing about $200 for up to five passengers. The trip is customizable, allowing you to select your route and focus on what interests you most.
This tour is ideal for families or small groups that want a personalized tour with the flexibility to see ponies, dolphins, or just enjoy a scenic cruise nearshore. The boat departs promptly at the scheduled time, so arriving 25 minutes early is a must. During the trip, you can expect to spot wildlife and take in the breathtaking scenery of Ocean City and the surrounding marshes.
While there are no reviews yet, the focus on wildlife sightings and custom routes makes this a good option for nature lovers who want a more intimate, flexible experience. It’s perfect for a relaxed, animal-focused adventure that fits into an hour.
Bottom Line: If seeing wild ponies and dolphins while enjoying a tailored cruise appeals to you, this pony cruise offers a combination of wildlife viewing and scenic serenity in just one hour.
How to Choose Your Perfect Ocean City 1-Hour Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and priorities. The Parasailing Adventure is ideal for thrill-seekers wanting an aerial view and adrenaline rush. The Private Booze Cruise suits small groups looking for a relaxed, customizable outing with a social vibe. Lastly, the Assateague Pony Cruise appeals to wildlife lovers wanting to see ponies and dolphins in a private, flexible setting.
Budget, group size, and personal interests will help steer your choice. Parasailing is more active and scenic, while the private boat tours offer intimacy and customization. Booking early is recommended for all, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Ocean City’s short tours pack a punch, offering unique vistas and unforgettable moments in just an hour. If your goal is a high-flying adventure, the parasailing tour is hard to beat. For a peaceful, customizable boat ride, the private booze or pony cruises deliver a personal touch that’s hard to match.
For families, thrill-seekers, or wildlife enthusiasts, these options provide a range of memorable experiences to enrich your visit. Remember, these tours often fill quickly during peak months, so booking early will help you secure the best time. Whichever you pick, Ocean City’s waters are ready to delight you—even if only for an hour.