OC Bay Hopper – Assateague Island Cruise

The OC Bay Hopper offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Assateague Island. This captivating morning cruise allows guests to witness the island’s famous wild ponies and diverse wildlife in their native habitat. With a high recommendation rate and knowledgeable captains, the tour promises an educational and memorable experience. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly adventure or a chance to observe Assateague’s rich ecosystem, the OC Bay Hopper cruise is worth considering for your next visit to the region.

This experience made our article of 12 Incredible Cruises And Boat Tours In Ocean City.

Key Points

• OC Bay Hopper offers a morning sightseeing cruise to Assateague Island, known for its famous wild ponies that are believed to be survivors of a shipwreck.
• The family-friendly cruise has a maximum capacity of 5 travelers and emphasizes observing the wild horses without feeding or petting them.
• Travelers can expect to see various bird species, including American Bald Eagles, and playful dolphins during the tour, with captains providing educational commentary.
• The cruise has a 96% recommendation rate from travelers, who praise the knowledgeable and friendly captains, especially Captain Patrick.
• Booking and cancellation policies provide flexibility, with prices starting at $35.00 per person and free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Overview and Experience

The OC Bay Hopper offers a morning sightseeing cruise to Assateague Island, known for its wild ponies.

The cruise has 50 reviews and a 96% recommendation rate from travelers. Folklore suggests the horses are survivors of a shipwreck off the Virginia coast.

The family-friendly experience emphasizes not feeding or petting the horses.

Travelers describe the cruise as a highlight of their trip, with many rating it highly and praising the captains’ knowledge and friendliness, particularly Captain Patrick.

Cruise Details

Departures for the OC Bay Hopper cruise to Assateague Island originate from 11703 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD, next to the Food Lion Shopping Center.

The activity concludes back at the meeting point. Accommodating a maximum of 5 travelers, the cruise is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller and service animal friendly.

Infants must sit on laps, and confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking. The experience is family-friendly, with an emphasis on not feeding or petting the wild horses found on the island.

Wildlife and Sightseeing

Travelers can expect to see a variety of wildlife during the OC Bay Hopper cruise to Assateague Island. The highlight is the opportunity to observe the island’s famous wild ponies up close.

In addition, cruisers may spot various bird species, including the majestic American Bald Eagle. The waters surrounding the island are home to playful dolphins, which often make an appearance during the tours.

The knowledgeable captains provide educational commentary, enhancing the sightseeing experience and offering insights into the island’s diverse ecosystem and the behaviors of its inhabitants.

Customer Reviews

What do the reviews say about the OC Bay Hopper cruise to Assateague Island? The cruise garners overwhelmingly positive feedback, with a 4.8 rating from travelers. Many highlight the knowledgeable and friendly captains, particularly Captain Patrick, who enhance the experience with educational commentary. Families report the cruise as a memorable highlight, praising the opportunity for close encounters with wildlife and the chance for children to steer the boat. The reviews reflect an appreciation for the informative nature of the tour and the ability to witness the island’s diverse wildlife, including wild ponies, bald eagles, and dolphins.

Rating	Reviewer Comments	Highlight Moments	Family Experience
4.8	Knowledgeable Captains	Close Wildlife Encounters	Memorable for Children
	Friendly Crew	Educational Commentary	Chance to Steer Boat
	Informative Tour	Diverse Wildlife Sightings	Highly Recommended
	Memorable Highlight	–	–

Booking and Cancellation Policy

How much do the OC Bay Hopper cruises to Assateague Island cost? Prices start at $35.00 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.

Flexible booking options allow travelers to reserve spots while maintaining the option to pay later. Plus, the company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing:

• Flexibility in planning
• Refunds if needed
• Ability to rebook for another time
• Convenience for last-minute changes

This cancellation policy ensures a stress-free booking process and allows travelers to fully enjoy their Assateague Island adventure without worrying about unexpected schedule changes.

The History of Assateague’s Wild Ponies

According to folklore, the wild ponies of Assateague Island are believed to be descendants of horses that survived a shipwreck off the Virginia coast centuries ago.

These resilient equines, known as Chincoteague or Assateague ponies, have adapted to the island’s harsh coastal environment. They graze on the salt marshes, withstand strong winds, and seek refuge in the island’s forests.

The ponies’ small stature and sturdy build are traits that have allowed them to thrive in this unique habitat. Their presence is a testament to the endurance of these remarkable animals and the island’s rich natural history.

Family-Friendly Activities on the Cruise

The OC Bay Hopper cruise offers a family-friendly experience for visitors of all ages.

The tour accommodates infants and strollers, ensuring comfort for young families. Plus, the captains provide educational commentary, enriching the experience for children and adults alike.

Travelers can also enjoy the opportunity for their children to steer the boat, fostering a sense of engagement and excitement.

The cruise’s emphasis on wildlife observation, without feeding or petting the horses, promotes a respectful interaction with Assateague’s natural inhabitants.

The OC Bay Hopper cruise is a well-rounded, family-oriented adventure.

• Accommodates infants and strollers
• Educational commentary from captains
• Children can steer the boat
• Emphasis on wildlife observation

Sustainable Tourism and Responsible Interactions With Wildlife

As a nature-based tourism experience, the OC Bay Hopper cruise emphasizes the importance of sustainable and responsible interactions with the wild ponies of Assateague Island.

Captains provide clear instructions to visitors, stressing the need to admire the horses from a safe distance and refrain from feeding or petting them. This approach helps preserve the natural behaviors and well-being of the iconic horses.

The cruise also highlights the broader ecosystem, educating travelers about the island’s diverse wildlife.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Cruise Suitable for Individuals With Mobility Issues?

The cruise is not wheelchair accessible, so it may not be suitable for individuals with significant mobility issues. However, the experience is stroller and service animal friendly, allowing some flexibility for visitors with accessibility needs.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise, as long as they are consumed on board and any waste is properly disposed of. The cruise operator’s policies should be confirmed prior to the trip.

How Long Does the Cruise Last and What Is the Schedule?

The cruise typically lasts approximately 2 hours. The schedule includes departure at 11:03 AM from the meeting point, a sightseeing tour of Assateague Island, and return to the starting location around 1:00 PM.

Is There an Age Limit or Special Requirements for Children?

The cruise is family-friendly, but infants must sit on laps. There is no age limit, but the activity is not wheelchair accessible. Strollers and service animals are permitted.

What Should I Bring or Wear for the Cruise?

For the cruise, dress comfortably in layers and bring sun protection. Pack snacks, water, and any medications needed. Wear non-slip shoes and bring a camera to capture the wildlife sightings. Bring cash or a card for any on-board purchases.

The Sum Up

The OC Bay Hopper’s Assateague Island cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness the island’s renowned wild ponies, dolphins, and diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. Led by knowledgeable captains, the family-friendly experience provides educational insights into the local ecosystem, making it a must-do activity for visitors. With a high recommendation rate and flexible booking, this cruise promises a memorable and sustainable adventure.