Ocean City: Assateague Island Morning Cruise

Embarking on a 2-hour morning cruise to Assateague Island is an enchanting way to experience the beauty of Ocean City. Guests will board a spacious catamaran and set sail, keeping an eye out for migratory birds and the famous wild ponies that roam the island. With an engaging crew providing insightful commentary, passengers can sip bottled water and enjoy a surprise ice cream treat as they take in the serene surroundings. Though the $1,786 per person price tag may seem steep, the intimate adventure promises unforgettable wildlife encounters and views that are sure to leave a lasting impression. What else might this cruise have in store for intrepid travelers?

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Ocean City Maryland.

Key Points

• A 2-hour morning cruise from Ocean City to Assateague Island, with the opportunity to spot migratory birds and wild ponies along the shoreline.
• Cost is $1,786 per person for up to 6 participants, including the catamaran ride, bottled water, and tips.
• Guests can bring their own picnic baskets and drinks, and the cruise offers a serene and informative experience with an engaging crew.
• Flexible booking and cancellation policy, with a "reserve now & pay later" option and full refund for cancellations made 24 hours in advance.
• The cruise departs from Pier 23 restaurant and bar in the Ocean City Harbor, with ample nearby parking and a recommended arrival time of 5-10 minutes before departure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Cruise Overview and Details

The morning boat trip to Assateague Island offers an engaging 2-hour cruise through the serene waters of Ocean City.

Priced at $1,786 per person, the cruise accommodates a small group of up to 6 participants. Led by an English-speaking captain and crew, the experience includes a catamaran ride, bottled water, and tips.

Guests can spot migratory birds and famous wild ponies along the Assateague shoreline. While the shallow waters limit proximity to the island, the tranquil navigation and views of Sinepuxent Bay provide an enjoyable early-morning adventure.

Travelers can bring a picnic basket and drinks to enhance the onboard experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Guests can reserve their spot on the morning cruise without upfront payment through the "reserve now & pay later" option. This allows them to secure their place on the tour and pay later.

Should plans change, guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund with the free cancellation policy.

The meeting point for the cruise is at Pier 23 restaurant and bar, located in the picturesque Ocean City Harbor. Guests are advised to arrive 5-10 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process.

With these flexible booking and cancellation terms, guests can confidently plan their Assateague Island adventure.

Experience Highlights

Embarking on the early-morning cruise from Ocean City, guests are treated to serene navigation and stunning views of Assateague Island and the Sinepuxent Bay.

The cruise offers the chance to spot migratory birds and the famous wild ponies along the shore. Passengers can bring a picnic basket and drinks to enjoy on board, adding to the relaxing atmosphere.

The small group size, limited to 6 participants, ensures an intimate and personalized experience. Throughout the 2-hour journey, the engaging crew provides informative commentary, enhancing the overall experience.

An unexpected ice cream treat adds a delightful surprise, leaving guests with lasting memories of their Assateague Island morning adventure.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

How do the reviews and ratings for this morning cruise reflect the overall guest experience?

With an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 17 reviews, it’s clear that the Assateague Island morning cruise delivers an exceptional excursion for visitors.

Guests praise the engaging crew, the small group size, and the fun for kids. The host’s informative commentary and the unexpected ice cream treat are also highlighted as memorable touches.

While some mention limited proximity to the island due to shallow waters, the overall consensus is that this cruise offers a serene and scenic start to the day, allowing travelers to spot wildlife and take in the natural beauty of the area.

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Important Information

To ensure a seamless experience, visitors are recommended to arrive 5-10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Passengers should bring a valid passport or ID card, as it may be required for the cruise.

It’s important to note that if the boat isn’t visible at the pier, it may be out on a trip, so guests should check with the staff for the current status.

The cruise operator strives to maintain a reliable schedule, but weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances may occasionally affect the departure times.

Guests are encouraged to dress comfortably and bring any desired snacks or drinks to enjoy during the voyage.

Assateague Island Exploration

As the catamaran navigates across the calm waters, passengers are treated to stunning vistas of Assateague Island’s pristine shoreline.

The island’s windswept beaches and vast salt marshes provide the perfect habitat for a diverse array of migratory birds. Guests can spot bald eagles, ospreys, and even the famous Assateague wild ponies roaming along the coast.

The captain shares informative commentary, pointing out the unique ecological features and wildlife.

Disembarking on the island, visitors can explore the serene natural landscapes and enjoy the tranquility of this protected barrier island ecosystem.

Onboard Amenities and Activities

Aboard the spacious catamaran, passengers can enjoy a range of onboard amenities and activities. As the boat gently navigates the calm waters, guests can sip on complimentary bottled water and admire the serene views of Assateague Island and the Sinepuxent Bay.

The intimate group size of six participants allows for a personalized experience, with the knowledgeable captain and crew on hand to offer insights and point out noteworthy sights, such as the famous wild ponies along the shore.

Passengers are welcome to bring their own picnic baskets and drinks to enjoy during the 2-hour excursion, making it a truly relaxing and immersive way to explore the natural beauty of the region.

Getting to the Pier

Getting to the Pier

The cruise departs from Pier 23 restaurant and bar in the Ocean City Harbor. The pier is easily accessible, with ample parking available at the nearby harbor lots.

Guests should plan to arrive 5-10 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process. Upon arrival, look for the catamaran docked at the pier, as it may not be visible from the restaurant.

Guests only need to present a valid photo ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, to the crew before boarding. With these straightforward instructions, getting to the pier for the morning cruise to Assateague Island is a breeze.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, the cruise allows passengers to bring their own picnic baskets and drinks to enjoy onboard during the 2-hour trip. This is mentioned as one of the experience highlights in the cruise details.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cruise?

There are no age restrictions for the morning cruise to Assateague Island. The experience is open to all ages, making it suitable for families with children. Participants must simply be able to board the catamaran comfortably.

Is There a Bathroom on the Boat?

Yes, there is a bathroom on the boat for passengers to use during the cruise. The restroom facilities are clean and accessible, providing comfort and convenience throughout the 2-hour excursion.

Can I Take Pictures and Videos During the Cruise?

Yes, passengers are encouraged to take photos and videos during the cruise. The crew welcomes guests to capture the scenic views, wildlife, and overall experience to share with friends and family.

How Early Should I Arrive at the Pier?

The cruise operators recommend arriving at the pier 5-10 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This ensures you have enough time to check in, get settled, and be ready to board the boat when it’s time to set sail.

Recap

Experience the natural beauty of Assateague Island on this captivating 2-hour morning cruise from Ocean City. Spot migratory birds, wild ponies, and enjoy the serene waters aboard a spacious catamaran. With an engaging crew, complimentary treats, and the chance to bring your own picnic, this intimate adventure promises unforgettable views and wildlife encounters that’ll leave you eager to return.

You can check if your dates are available here: