Smith Island Boat Tours & Cruises in Crisfield, Maryland

Located on the water’s edge in Crisfield, Maryland, Experience Smith Island offers an authentic dive into Chesapeake Bay’s maritime culture. This family-run operation specializes in immersive boat tours that capture the living heritage and natural beauty of Smith Island, one of Maryland’s few inhabited coastal islands. Set against the calm waters of Tangier Sound, their tours are more than just scenic cruises—they provide a front-row seat to the traditional life of watermen and the ecological rhythms of the bay.

The centerpiece is the Smith Island Tour, guiding passengers through the three villages that comprise this unique community. The journey includes stops at local crabbing shanties where you’ll witness working watermen haul their traps, offering an up-close look at the region’s vital blue crab industry. Visitors also sample classic island fare, including homemade crab cakes and the distinctive multi-layered Smith Island cake, brought to life through a baking demonstration by the owner’s mother. Beyond the shore, the boat glides past flocks of pelicans, ospreys, and other bay wildlife, enriching the experience.

Additional trips include a Crisfield Waterfront Tour and a Sunset Cruise, each delivering distinct perspectives on this coastal landscape. Led by Captain Everett and Carol Ann—6th generation locals whose deep knowledge and warm hospitality anchor every outing—these tours combine storytelling with hands-on demonstrations and meaningful encounters.

Experience Smith Island stands out as a gateway to Chesapeake Bay’s working waterfront, bridging natural history and human tradition. For anyone curious about the bay’s ecology, fisheries, and authentic island culture, these tours represent an unmatched opportunity to engage directly with an enduring way of life, just an hour’s drive from larger urban hubs and easily accessible from Crisfield’s harbor. Whether you’re a local or traveler, dedicating a day here promises an education and escape wrapped in fresh sea air and honest connection.