Cowboy Cruise Company is run by fourth-generation Saltwater Cowboys who have helped care for Chincoteague’s wild pony herd since 1925. Captains Hunter and Ayden grew up on these waters, know every inlet and bloodline, and delight ...
Captain Hunter and his crew have built something genuinely special here. Hunter brings a rare combination to the water as a 3rd generation Saltwater Cowboy and Marine Biologist, meaning the stories and knowledge you get go well beyond a typical tour script. Guides like Ayden also consistently earn high marks for being personable, punctual, and deeply familiar with the wildlife and history of the area. The small boat size is a real advantage. It lets them navigate into shallow marsh areas that larger tour boats simply can't reach, which translates directly into closer encounters with the wild ponies. Reviewers frequently mention getting remarkably close to multiple herds, and a few have even witnessed foals being born during their tour. Beyond the standard pony tours, Hunter also offers experiences like duck hunts and the annual Pony Swim, and the same level of attentiveness carries through all of it. The 8am tour gets mentioned specifically as the best slot for pony sightings, and the tour is dog friendly, which is a nice bonus for travelers bringing pets along.
Excellent tour, small boat = close to ponies. The guide knew every point by name. Most knowledgeable tour guide ever. Guide not concerned about the time as much as he was making sure we saw lots of ponies and horses. Our tour was excellent, we saw one foal being born and another take their first steps!!! This tour company is the best.
Shawn Wilson
May 12, 2026
Excellent tour, small boat = close to ponies. The guide knew every point by name. Most knowledgeable tour guide ever. Guide not concerned about the time as much as he was making sure we saw lots of ponies and horses. Our tour was excellent, we saw one foal being born and another take their first steps!!! This tour company is the best.
Shawn Wilson
May 12, 2026