OCEAN CITY BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Twilight Skiff to Assateague: A Private Five-Guest Pony & Dolphin Cruise from Ocean City
A one-hour private skiff charter departing from the Aloft Hotel carries up to five guests through Ocean City’s back bays to Assateague Island for close views of wild ponies, dolphins, and shoreline wildlife.
Twilight Skiff to Assateague: A Private Five-Guest Pony & Dolphin Cruise from Ocean City.
Set out from the Aloft Hotel bayside dock aboard a private Coastal Bay skiff and slip into the sheltered back bays that frame Assateague Island. Over the course of a concise, one-hour cruise a USCG‑licensed captain guides a small group toward the island’s shoreline and wetlands, where wild ponies graze and dolphins ride the boat’s bow wake—an intimate, crowd‑free way to experience one of Maryland’s most photogenic coastal landscapes.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Pony and Dolphin Sightings
The cruise is tuned to wildlife viewing: the captain points out wild Assateague ponies grazing along the shore and frequent bottlenose dolphins in the bays, offering close, natural encounters away from the crowded beachfront.
Private Skiff Charter for Up to Five
You get a dedicated 22‑foot Coastal Bay skiff and a knowledgeable captain for your group of up to five—bring your own (non‑glass) beverages, play your own music, and tailor the short cruise to suit a small family or friends.
Sea Rocket — Ocean City’s Watersports Hub
Sea Rocket runs this private charter alongside a full roster of watersports in OCMD—parasailing, speed boat dolphin cruises, banana boats, and harbor or sunset trips—so you can combine experiences or ask about bundled options.
What the day feels like
What the Cruise Feels Like
This is a short, relaxed outing designed for a small group: check in at the Aloft Hotel bayside dock, board the skiff, and settle in with your drinks and music. The boat slips through quiet channels toward Assateague’s shoreline while the captain provides local commentary and scans for ponies and dolphins, then returns smoothly to the dock—an intimate, customizable hour on the water.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this cruise suits best—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
BYOB is welcome—bring your favorite beverages and snacks, but no glass containers are permitted onboard.
You may play your own music and settle into the skiff for a relaxed, customizable experience—plan light layers for coastal breezes.
All ages are welcome; plan accordingly for children’s life preserver sizing and supervise younger passengers during boarding and while on deck.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the PRIVATE PARTY ASSATEAGUE ISLAND CRUISE?
The charter is a one‑hour cruise.
Where do we meet for departure?
Meet at the Aloft Hotel bayside dock, 4501 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, MD 21842 (behind the hotel near Liquid Therapy bar).
How many passengers does the private skiff hold?
The private charter accommodates up to five guests.
Can we bring drinks and snacks?
Yes—BYOB is welcome, but no glass containers are permitted onboard.
Are children allowed on the cruise?
All ages are welcome on this private cruise.
Can guests who use wheelchairs board the skiff?
The vessel cannot accommodate wheelchairs or mobility scooters; guests who can transfer out of their device and walk short distances (with or without assistance) are welcome and crew members will provide support during boarding.
Will the captain help spot wildlife and provide commentary?
Yes—the USCG‑licensed captain will share insights on the local area and assist in spotting wild ponies, dolphins, and other wildlife during the cruise.