Chincoteague Island is a standout spot for cruise and boat tour enthusiasts, thanks to its proximity to Assateague Island National Seashore and the chance to see wild horses, dolphins, and a multitude of bird species. Unlike crowded city tours, Chincoteague offers a peaceful, nature-centered experience that focuses on the local wildlife and scenic coastlines. Whether you’re after a daytime adventure or a memorable sunset cruise, these tours deliver genuine encounters with the island’s natural beauty. Plus, the small-group atmosphere and knowledgeable guides ensure you get a personalized, insightful experience.
If you’re trying to decide between options, you’ll find that each tour offers something a little different—some focus on wildlife, while others emphasize the sunset ambiance. To help you make an informed choice, here’s a breakdown of the top boating adventures in Chincoteague. For more details, check out From Chincoteague Island: Assateague Island Boat Tour and Chincoteague: Assateague Island Sunset Boat Cruise.
1. From Chincoteague Island: Assateague Island Boat Tour
This 1.5-hour boat tour from Chincoteague is perfect for wildlife lovers eager to see wild ponies, dolphins, and a variety of birds. The tour takes you around Assateague Island, offering close-up views of the Chincoteague Wildlife Refuge and Assateague Lighthouse. The boat used is a pontoon, providing stability and comfort for sightseeing. The tour’s highlights include cruising past the National Seashore, where you can often spot horses trotting along the beach and dolphins playing in the water.
What makes this tour stand out is the expert commentary from guides who share over 25 years of birding experience, making each sighting both fun and educational. The reviews are glowing, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see the wild ponies up close. One reviewer noted, “Guide was very knowledgeable and shared plenty of facts and stories.” At $59 per person, this tour offers excellent value for a memorable wildlife adventure that typically receives a 4/5 rating from over 100 reviews. This tour is ideal if you want an authentic, small-group experience that combines nature with history.
Bottom line: Whether a family or solo traveler, this tour provides a well-rounded, engaging look at Assateague Island’s natural residents in a comfortable setting.
2. Chincoteague: Assateague Island Sunset Boat Cruise
For those seeking an extra-special experience, the Sunset Boat Cruise offers a 1.5-hour journey during the golden hour. As the name suggests, this cruise is designed to showcase the dazzling colors of the setting sun, casting a warm glow over Assateague Island’s landscapes. Along the way, you’ll see wild ponies, dolphins, and various bird species, all while relaxing on a pontoon boat with plenty of space to take photos.
What makes this tour unique is the combination of wildlife viewing and the tranquil beauty of a sunset—a perfect way to wind down after a busy day. The guides here, like Captain Shane, are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. One recent reviewer commented, “A beautiful sunset, magical wild horses, and an amazing dolphin sighting. A great end to the summer season.” The tour is priced at $59 per person, with a slightly higher rating of 4.3/5 from 35 reviews, reflecting its intimate and scenic nature.
Bottom line: If you’re after a peaceful, picturesque cruise that combines wildlife sightings with the magic of sunset, this tour is a fantastic choice.
How to Choose
When deciding between these boat tours in Chincoteague, consider your priorities: Do you want a daytime adventure with more wildlife activity? The Assateague Island Boat Tour is your best bet. If you prefer a more relaxed, visually stunning experience at sunset, the Sunset Cruise offers a quiet, scenic finale to your day.
Also, think about your budget and schedule. Both tours are similarly priced at $59 and last about 1.5 hours, making them easy to slot into your day. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot. For nature lovers or those celebrating a special occasion, the sunset cruise provides that extra touch of magic, while the wildlife tour offers more active wildlife encounters.
Chincoteague’s boat tours provide a genuine chance to connect with the island’s wildlife and scenic coastlines. If you’re after a lively, educational experience, the Assateague Island Boat Tour is a solid pick. Alternatively, for a peaceful, picture-perfect outing, the Sunset Boat Cruise offers a memorable way to end your day. Either way, booking in advance will help ensure you don’t miss out on these unforgettable experiences in Chincoteague.