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We love going to see the wild ponies on Assateague and Chincoteague every summer, but there is more to these beautiful islands than just the ponies. If you want to discover a variety of wildlife, Captain Barryβs Backbay Cruises is the one for you!

Captain Barry invited us out on his boat where we met a man bursting to share the natural beauty, wonder and value of Chincoteague with the world.
Captain Barry is a self taught naturalist who canβt wait to show you why he loves Chincoteague so much! He is seriously passionate about inspiring the next generation to love and care for our environment.


Don’t be fooled by the name, the Back Bay Cruise is actually more of a hands-on educational experience than a cruise. We loved that it was fun (and educational) for everyone from our preschoolers to their Grandma.


Brace yourself, this tour is a whirlwind of excitement, education and adventure.


Captain Barry doesn’t follow a script and no two cruises are the same. You never know what adventures await you, but many of his tours include: discovering periwinkle snails, observing migrating birds, digging in the mud for sea creatures at a sandbar, pulling crab pots to identify and see the day’s catch, holding a crab without getting pinched, navigating to Shell Island, hunting for jellyfish, hauling in the trawler net to taste of Chincoteague’s famous Salt Oysters, and identifying the many birds in the area.



Captain Barry’s larger than life personality and family friendly adventures are a perfect way to see another side of the Chincoteague area.



Tours are limited to 6 people which leaves enough room for everyone to observe, touch, try and explore. The only downside to the small tours is that he is often booked solid, so reserve your spot on the floating classroom and see what adventure awaits!

Captain Barry’s Back Bay Cruises
757-336-6508
6262 Marlin Street
23336 Chincoteague
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