CHINCOTEAGUE PRIVATE FIELD GUIDE
On Deck with the Martha Lou: A Private Cruise to Assateague’s Lighthouse and Wild Ponies
A roughly two-hour private cruise from Curtis Merritt Harbor aboard the spacious, bathroom-equipped tritoon Martha Lou that brings families and large groups close to the Assateague Lighthouse and the Southern Herd of ponies.
On Deck with the Martha Lou: A Private Cruise to Assateague’s Lighthouse and Wild Ponies.
Set out from Curtis Merritt Harbor for a memorable, roughly two-hour cruise aboard the Martha Lou, a hard-top, covered tritoon with onboard bathroom facilities. The route threads the waterways around Chincoteague and Assateague Islands, offering up-close views of the Assateague Lighthouse and opportunities to observe the Southern Herd of ponies—an especially good fit for families and larger private groups.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Room for the Whole Group
The Martha Lou is a large-capacity, hard-top covered tritoon with bathroom facilities aboard—designed to carry private groups comfortably and repeatedly described as ideal for families and large parties.
Up Close with the Southern Herd
A primary draw is the opportunity to view the Southern Herd of Chincoteague ponies from the water—timing and close views depend on the herd’s location on a given day.
Assateague Light and Island Vistas
The cruise gets you up close to the Assateague Lighthouse and carries you past the scenic shores and historic sights of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands.
What the day feels like
What the Cruise Feels Like
The private cruise unfolds over roughly two hours: boarding at the harbor, a calm run through local waterways to the lighthouse and pony viewing areas, and a return with island vistas—timing and exact routing vary with pony locations and weather.
THE BOAT
Room for the Whole Group
The Martha Lou is a large-capacity, hard-top covered tritoon with bathroom facilities aboard—designed to carry private groups comfortably and repeatedly described as ideal for families and large parties.
THE WILDLIFE
Up Close with the Southern Herd
A primary draw is the opportunity to view the Southern Herd of Chincoteague ponies from the water—timing and close views depend on the herd’s location on a given day.
THE SIGHTS
Assateague Light and Island Vistas
The cruise gets you up close to the Assateague Lighthouse and carries you past the scenic shores and historic sights of Chincoteague and Assateague Islands.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this private cruise suits best, and who it’s organized for.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Food and drink, binoculars, camera, sunglasses, bug spray, sunscreen, layered clothing (light jacket or sweatshirt), and even a blanket—expect it to be colder on the water than on land.
The Martha Lou is a hard-top covered tritoon with bathroom facilities on board.
Bring layers and a jacket—conditions on the water are consistently cooler than onshore; plan for wind and sun exposure.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the cruise?
The private cruise is approximately two hours; the exact duration can vary based on wildlife locations and weather conditions.
Where does the Martha Lou depart from?
The Martha Lou departs from Curtis Merritt Harbor.
How many people is a private cruise best for?
This option is noted as best for large groups or families between about 25 and 74 people.
Are there bathroom facilities on board?
Yes—the Martha Lou is equipped with bathroom facilities.
What should we bring on the cruise?
Bring food and drink, binoculars, a camera, sunglasses, bug spray, sunscreen, layered clothing or a jacket, and optionally a blanket; it will likely be cooler on the water.
How do I book a private cruise?
To book a private cruise or ask questions, call the operator at 757-336-5556.