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Join Bottoms Up Tiki Tours for an exclusive boat ride witnessing wild ponies swim back to Chincoteague Island. Experience a rare view of this iconic tradition surrounded by nature and comfort.
Join Bottoms Up Tiki Tours for an exclusive boat ride witnessing wild ponies swim back to Chincoteague Island. Experience a rare view of this iconic tradition surrounded by nature and comfort.
Book with Bottoms Up Tiki Tours
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Bottoms Up Tiki Tours · Chincoteague, Virginia
Experience a front-row seat to one of Virginia’s most cherished traditions with the 100th Pony Swim Back: The Journey Home. Offered exclusively by Bottoms Up Tiki Tours, this private boat adventure lets you witness wild ponies as they swim from Assateague back to Chincoteague Island. For over 90 years, this event has attracted visitors eager to see the ponies' incredible journey across the channel. Onboard, enjoy the comfort of a private boat surrounded by fellow nature enthusiasts and guides who share tales of the ponies’ history and the island’s unique ecosystem.
The tour merges excitement and tranquility—watch powerful ponies navigate the water while surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery. The calm waters and gentle sea breeze enhance the experience, making it perfect for families, photographers, and animal lovers alike. You'll gain a deep connection to local culture and conservation efforts, learning how this annual event supports both heritage and environmental stewardship.
Whether you're a first-timer or a repeat visitor, the 100th Pony Swim Back offers a unique perspective unavailable from shore. This unforgettable day combines natural spectacle, engaging stories, and warm camaraderie, leaving guests with lasting memories of Chincoteague’s wild spirit.
easy.
2–3 hours.
Minimal physical effort required; suitable for all fitness levels including families and seniors.
Yes, the private boat tour is family-friendly and provides a safe, comfortable environment suitable for children of all ages.
Most tours allow you to bring light snacks and beverages, but it’s best to check directly with Bottoms Up Tiki Tours for specific policies.
Tours may be rescheduled or canceled due to unsafe weather conditions. You will be notified in advance if this occurs.
The boat provides a close but respectful distance that ensures the safety of both participants and ponies.
Yes, the private tour boats typically have restroom facilities available for guest convenience.
No boating experience is necessary as tours are guided and designed for passengers of all experience levels.
The Pony Swim tradition began over 90 years ago as a means for local ranchers to move ponies between Assateague and Chincoteague Islands for annual sale.
Efforts by local organizations maintain the delicate balance between pony populations and the island’s natural environment, promoting sustainable tourism.
Bottoms Up Tiki Tours is a Chincoteague-based tiki boat company specializing in narrated and themed cruises on the waters around Chincoteague Island and the Chesapeake Bay. The company offers a range of public and private experiences including Tides & Vine on the Water, Pony Swim vantage trips, Brunch on the Bay, Castaway Day Trippin’ Adventure, sunset and evening cruises, a Tiki Luau Cruise, Five O’Clock Somewhere cruises, and fully customizable private charters. Many experiences are 21+ with curated wine or tiki bar options; family-friendly choices are available for select daytime trips. Each cruise features curated food and drink options, local stops like Don’s Seafood and Chinco Tiki, and an emphasis on island vibes, wildlife viewing, and waterfront scenery. Professional captains and crew operate licensed vessels and prioritize safety, local navigation knowledge, and guest comfort. Bottoms Up Tiki Tours serves both visitors and locals seeking memorable celebrations, date nights, group outings, or event-specific experiences such as the historic Chincoteague Pony Swim. The Pony Swim viewing option offers an exclusive boat perspective on the iconic island tradition. Reservations can be made for scheduled public cruises or for private charters tailored to birthdays, proposals, corporate outings, or special occasions. The company highlights stress-free, all-inclusive day trips for anglers and food lovers, including the new Castaway Day Trippin’ Adventure for 2025. With a focus on hospitality, local partnerships, and unique floating experiences, Bottoms Up Tiki Tours provides accessible, authentic water-based recreation around Chincoteague and the Eastern Shore. Booking is simple through an online system.
Book with Bottoms Up Tiki Tours