Chincoteague Island

Annual Pony Swim 

1st Day: We travel today to Virginia's Eastern Shore, to Chincoteague Island. We will stop for lunch on the way. We'll cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, an award-winning engineering marvel and considered one of the seven man-made wonders of the world. This 23-mile toll facility is a travel convenience, connecting mainland Virginia to the Delmarva Peninsula. The crossing consists of a series of low-level trestles interrupted by two approximately one-mile-long tunnels beneath Thimble Shoals and Chesapeake navigation channels. The man made islands, each approximately 5.25 acres in size, are located at each end of the two tunnels. Upon arrival, we'll check into our hotel. The remainder of the day is free. You'll want to get plenty of rest this evening, as we may have to leave very early to head over to Chincoteague Island for the Pony Swim. Since the crossing is based on the tides, the swim could take place any time between 7:00 AM and 1:00 PM. The specific time is announced the week of the Pony Swim and we'll set our departure time the next morning based on the actual time. (L) 

2nd Day: Today will be the Chincoteague's Annual Pony Swim. The Chincoteague Pony Swim was made famous by Marguerite Henry's "Misty of Chincoteague". Thousands of spectators from around the world gather on Chincoteague Island each year to watch this annual tradition. The Saltwater Cowboys will swim the ponies from Assateague Island to Chincoteague Island during "slack tide". Slack tide is a period of about 30 minutes between tides, when there is no current. This is the easiest time for the ponies to make the swim. The time of slack tide varies each year. After the swim, the ponies rest for about 45 minutes. Then, the Saltwater Cowboys will "parade" the ponies down Main Street, to the carnival grounds. After watching the "pony swim" and the “pony parade”, we'll depart for home. Arrival back is dependent on the actual times of the "pony swim" and "pony parade”. (CB) 

Note: Please be prepared for hot and humid conditions at the swim site. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. No seating is provided. The swim area is marshland. You may bring a small bag chair as long as you can carry it in your lap on the shuttle bus. 

Special Notice: Balance is due 30 days prior to departure. Cancellation within 30 days of departure will result in payment forfeiture.