Experiences
The Assateague Island Boat Tour is one of our most popular trips! Once you board the Bay Hopper, we’ll cruise to the magical and elusive Assateague Island. This island is famous for its wild ponies, unicorns, and the gumdrops that fall from the sky!
How did the ponies get there? Did they swim? How many ponies live there? Can you pet the ponies? Can you feed the ponies? The answers to these questions, facts about the island, and the other amazing wildlife living on - and around - Assateague can be answered by your knowledgeable and wise captain.
This is a trip you will not forget. Oh, we should mention that if you have kids and you bring them on this trip that they will love you forever! Don’t be a bad parent. Book this trip now!
Please note that the part about the unicorns and gumdrops might be a very slight exaggeration.
You won't believe the variety of birds that inhabit the coastal bays right here in Ocean City! Many migratory species make their way here to nest and raise their young near the waters that surround Ocean City and Assateague Island. Possible Species may include: Royal Tern, Forster’s Tern, Common Tern, Black Skimmer, Brown Pelican, Piping Plover, Brown Pelican, Osprey, Snowy Egret, White Ibis, American Oystercatcher, Willet
The cost for the two-hour cruise is $55/person. Guests can register individually or in groups. We need a minimum of four participants to run a tour. Our maximum number of participants is 14. Tours are mostly offered on Tuesday evenings, but new dates may be added during the summer.
We’ll investigate the bayside OC docks from M.R. Duck’s south to the inlet (there are often good birds hiding out there!), then we’ll cruise by the Assateague jetty. From there, we’ll explore the bayside of Assateague Island south towards Castaways campground, then back to the harbor. The cruise will feature a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain and a DBW Guide, so you will be in good hands.
The OC Bay Hopper has a liquor license and cold adult beverages are available for purchase. Cold water is also available.
Crabbing and eating these interesting creatures is a Maryland tradition. If you've ever wondered how to catch a blue crab or how to eat them then this is the trip for you! Likewise, if you grew up eating crabs and want a taste of the past or would like to give your kids some of the great memories you have then this trip is a must.
On this trip, your captain - a seasoned seaman and crabber – will guide you to some of the hottest spots on the Bay for catching crabs. Your sneaky captain will have already dropped some crab pots in his favorite crabbing locations so that by the time you reach them they'll already have a bunch of delicious creatures crawling around inside.
Once anchored, you’ll be recruited to help haul in the bounty! The captain will teach you everything you need to know about crabs – including how to cook and eat them. This is a great opportunity to get your hands dirty.
When you depart the boat at the end of the trip, your captain will divide up the bounty amongst all who want to devour them – which is typically everyone. This trip is a big hit with the kids!
If you’re looking for a great way to unwind then this cruise is it! You’ll board our Bay Hopper at either our West OC or our North OC location. We’ll then head out into the Assawoman Bay. The Bay in the evening slows down and gets calm and quiet. All you have to do is sit back, grab your favorite beverage, take a deep breath of the salty ocean air, and relax.
The Bay Hopper will glide you across the water giving you a front row seat to some of the Bay’s most amazing wildlife. At this point, you might reach for one of those delicious snacks you packed for the trip and notice the lights in OC start to pop on. Then, you simply watch the sun melt into the water. At this point you’ll feel so relaxed that you might not be able to keep your eyes open.
Once the sun sets, your captain will pilot the Bay Hopper back to our pier and you can start your evening on the town refreshed. Or, you have a couple of more drinks, look at the tv for a while and go to sleep. Either way, you’ll feel good.
Ideal for celebrating special occasions, getting out on the water with a large family group or bar hopping with friends!
We love our mulit-generational groups!!!
We are happy to take you and your group of up to 17 people around the bay to see the various sites and attractions of Ocean City Maryland. Our 27 foot Carolina skiff are always run by a licensed US Coast Guard captains who will be professional and courteous and will drive you wherever you'd like to go. Our OC Bay Hoppers are available in four hour blocks of time.
Our boats can handle up to 17 passengers but your trip will be much more comfortable with between 12-15 people (we have seating for 15 onboard). For groups larger than 17 we are able to coordinate a second boat (after 8pm only).
Rates (includes captain, does not include alcohol):
Before 4pm $205/hr (plus $75 one time gas fee)
After 4pm $235/hr (plus $75 one time gas fee)
After 9pm $265/hr (plus $75 one time gas fee)
*Our boats must return to the dock by midnight
This casual, two-hour trip aboard the Bay Hopper provides unparalleled views of the Ocean City skyline and its natural counterpart- Assateague Island! Sit back and relax, take in the smell of the salty sea air, and crack open a cold, local craft beer, brewed right here on the Eastern Shore.
There's no better way to appreciate the region's culture than by enjoying its beauty and its locally-made, handcrafted libations all at once. Your first two beers are included, and each 12 oz. craft beer can be purchased for just $5 thereafter -- the lowest price you'll find on land or sea!
Each Shorecraft Beer Cruise is its own adventure: sometimes we have specific local breweries come aboard, with a variety of their offerings and possible even a brewmaster to discuss the beers. Other times, we will feature a multitude of local beers and someone from Shorecraft Beer will be available to "talk shop."
World Class Beer meets World Class Beauty on the Eastern Shore.
PLEASE NOTE: YOU MUST BE 21 OR OVER TO JOIN THIS CRUISE
The Maryland Coastal Bays Program has been protecting the pristine beauty of the coastal Ocean City region for more that 24 years. On this trip, you’ll be joined by members of the Maryland Coastal Bays Program as you tour the Assawoman and Sinepuxent Bays. You’ll have experts on the boat who will explain what the Maryland Coastal Bays Program is doing to preserve this natural treasure. You’ll also learn about the incredible wildlife inhabiting the coastal bay region.
A highlight of this trip will be a stop at the amazing Assateague Island! Here, you’ll see the famous wild ponies that occupy this island, and you’ll also have a hands-on opportunity to learn about the marine life inhabiting the waters around the island. Get ready for an amazing learning adventure. Don’t forget the camera and the kids! Kids love this trip!
PLEASE NOTE: a portion of profits from this trip will go to support the Maryland Coastal Bays Program.
Enjoy a Sunset Cruise off of Assateague Island- with Some Scary Sea Stories...
Embark on an eerie adventure like no other with this Ghost Tour by Boat! Cruise comfortably as you listen to our expert storyteller uncover mysterious tales and ghostly legends that lurk beneath the surface.
From phantom ships to spectral sightings, our guide will regale you with stories of the supernatural as you glide along the shoreline of Ocean City and Assateague Island. Feel the thrill of the unknown as you drift into the heart of mystery and uncover the secrets that haunt these barrier islands.
Don't miss your chance to experience the paranormal from a unique perspective – book your seat on the Ocean City Spectral Voyage today.
At the OC Bay Hopper, we’re all about making things easy for our customers. With the Greene Turtle Lunch Cruise, we’ve done tons and tons of work to craft a unique experience for you that will make your head explode! And the only thing you need to do is gather some friends or family, buy a ticket, and get on the boat. (oh, and bring plenty of your favorite adult beverages to share!)
Each member of your group will also get their choice of some fantastic Green Turtle grub - specifically re-imagined for enjoyment on a boat. You’ll get your choice of one of the following:
- Chicken Bacon Avocado Sandwich (chicken, bacon, avocado, lettuce, tomato)
- Crabby Melt (crab dip, bacon, tomato, cheddar cheese)
- Adult Grilled Cheese (bbq pulled pork, gouda cheese, pepperjack cheese, bacon)
- Jerk Chicken Tacos
- Grilled Shrimp Tacos
- Shredded Chicken Tacos
After selecting the cruise, you will be prompted to select your food order, which IS NOT included in the price of the trip.
Mix all this together and you get a boatload of fun.
Beer, Hard Seltzers and Canned Cocktail Drinks are available for purchase with your lunch.
Join Jen Brooks, Certified Sommelier, WSET Advanced, for a breathtaking coastal wine experience aboard the Bay Hopper. Take in captivating views of Ocean City, Assateague Island, salt marshes, and sandy beaches, as Jen tastes us through a selection of fantastic wines from around the world. Perfect for the seasoned oenophile, the wine novice, or simply anyone who wants to further their wine knowledge and take in beautiful bay views. Ocean City is famous for its vibrant sunsets, especially during the shoulder season, and the best spot to do this is on the water!
On this 90-minute cruise, Jen will guide you through 5 wines: 1 sparkling, 2 whites, and 2 reds, with light nibbles provided, but feel free to bring your own. Are you departing from the Ocean Pines Yacht Club? Meet Jen a half hour before departure for a complimentary glass of bubbles! Catching the boat at 118th st? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. We’ll top off your glass when we see you at the Yacht Club!
*This is a limited Somm Sail series, so grab your tickets before the Season is over!*
*Loved the wines? All wines are available for purchase at West-O Bottle Shop, with a special discount given to ticket holders*
Your Sommelier
Jen Brooks is the Fine Wine Manager, Mid-Atlantic for Frederick Wildman and Sons. A luxury wine specialist and educator, Jen has been awarded wine certificates from the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Wine and Spirit Education Trust. Jen and her husband split their time between their home in Ocean Pines and Annapolis.
We know you work hard and if you're in OC then you're probably here to relax. So, we have created this cruise for you.
Join us for a stress melting, special cruise on the Assawoman Bay. Board one of our Bay Hoppers at our 118th street location in Ocean City OR Downtown at our new location next to Jackspot (307 Dorchester); our USCG Licensed captains will take you on a soothing cruise and show you OC by water. You'll find yourself gliding across water that looks like glass while enjoying an ice cold adult beverage. All your stress will float away. Before you know it, you'll be laughing it up with a bunch of new friends and contemplating how you can quit your job and start a new life in OC.
This cruise will be stocked with some fine brews, twisted teas, and alcoholic seltzers. And, because we want you to enjoy yourself - your first beverage is on us! This is an adults only cruise so, you MUST BE 21 OR OLDER TO TAKE THIS TRIP.
Just want to get out on the water, and off the beach, for some day drinking and bar hopping? There are over 23 bars and restaurants on the coastal bays waterfront that are accessible on the water. On this Bay Adventure, you will stop at 3 of them and get to see the entirety of Ocean City by water! The bar hopping will start in West OC's Commercial Harbor (Have an Orange Crush at Harborside!) and then continue on to Fish Tails... A final stop will be Ocean City's most famous location: Seacrets!!! Find a spot you love? No worries, you can skip the rest of the trip at any time...
Hey there, friends! Picture this: you're wrapping up your morning Boardwalk bike ride or stroll, and you're thinking, "What's next? How about a boat trip?" But wait, it gets better. How about throwing some scrumptious breakfast sandwiches into the mix from none other than Ocean City's legendary hotspot – The Angler?
Now, let's set the scene. You're cruising along, surrounded by your favorite people, soaking in the breathtaking sights of Assateague Island. Sure, we can't guarantee that you'll spot the famous ponies, but the chances are very good! As you're busy scanning the horizon for those elusive equines, you're also sinking your teeth into mouthwatering breakfast delights. Talk about starting the day on the right foot!
So, what are you waiting for? Let's turn this daydream into reality! Join us for a morning full of laughter, exploration, and of course, delicious eats. Who knows what other surprises await as we embark on this unforgettable adventure together?
What’s this? A trip designed specifically with your favorite family member in mind? Ever want to take your dog along with you on great adventures? Well now you can!
Introducing “Dog Day Afternoon,” our latest trip available on the OC Bay Hopper. Throughout the summer months, (and starting as soon as May!) we have partnered with local business “Doggie Style,” located on the Boardwalk, to bring an epic adventure forth for you and your best loyal…
A boat ride, a place for the dogs to romp on the beach and play a bit bayside, topped off with a special doggie treat and a return ride home- WOW!
Ahoy, relaxation seekers! Hop aboard the OC Bay Hopper at our Downtown OC location and set sail into the tranquil Sinepuxent Bay off Assateague Island.
As we glide across the water, enjoy a front-row seat to stunning wildlife, all while sipping your favorite drink and breathing in the salty ocean air. Nibble on any snacks you decide to bring as OC’s lights twinkle to life, and watch the sun melt into the horizon, painting the sky in dreamy hues. Oh, this cruise sells alcoholic beverages if your so inclined...
With the sun set and your soul rejuvenated, our captain will steer you back to the pier, leaving you refreshed and ready for a night on the town or a relaxing evening at home.
Book your spot and let the evening magic sweep you off your feet!
As we cruise to this enchanting island, keep your eyes peeled for the famous wild ponies. Did they swim here? Do they secretly moonlight as lifeguards? Your knowledgeable and wise captain will unravel these mysteries, sharing fascinating facts about the island and its incredible wildlife. Spoiler alert: you can’t pet or feed the ponies, but they sure do love posing for your photos!
But wait, there’s more! Our cruise offers a selection of delightful alcoholic drinks for sale, and guess what? Your first drink is on us! So, grab a cocktail, relax, and let the magic of Assateague Island wash over you. Sip your drink as you marvel at herons gliding gracefully above, and maybe even spot a dolphin or two playing in the waves.
We pair our OC Bay Hoppers with one of the hidden gems of Ocean City, our Art League, for this incredible afternoon on the water and in a gallery! Best of all, a portion of your tickets goes to support the local arts community of Ocean City, Maryland!
Spend your afternoon on a relaxing boat ride from 118th Street with one of our engaging Captains. You will get to experience the Assawoman Bay in all of its fall glory as you are whisked away on the water. The Art League, located off of 94th Street, sits adjacent to a beautiful marshland that often teems with birds.
At the Ocean City Center for the Arts you will be greeted by a guide and taken on a private tour of the current exhibits. Additionally, a delicious treat will be served, the perfect respite after your cultural immersion. And wait, there's more: you will leave with a piece of art commemorating your experience!
The OC Bay Hopper will bring you back to 118th Street after your tour, and you will have experienced some of the coolest hidden gems (the coastal bays and the Arts Center) that our area has to offer!
Set sail on a delightful boat ride to the Art League of Ocean City, where a world of creativity awaits! Immerse yourself in our monthly exhibits showcasing diverse and inspiring artworks. Unleash your own artistic talents in our interactive art-making sessions, and don’t forget to treat yourself to a scoop of delicious ice cream. It’s an experience where art, creativity, and indulgence come together for a memorable outing.
The OC Bay Hopper will bring you back to 118th Street after your project is complete, and you will have experienced some of the coolest hidden gems (the coastal bays and the Arts Center) that our area has to offer! Best of all, a portion of your tickets goes to support the local arts community of Ocean City, Maryland!