Ocean City, Maryland, is known for its lively boardwalk, sandy beaches, and fresh seafood, but it also offers some fantastic boat experiences that give you a different perspective of this coastal town. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing sunset cruise, an active sailing adventure, or a fun food tour on the water, Ocean City has something to offer. Our favorite picks include the Sea Rocket Sunset & OC Harbor Cruise for its stunning views and dolphin sightings, and the Bay Hopping Food Boat Tour for a tasty exploration of local flavors. Each tour provides a unique way to enjoy the water and see parts of Ocean City you’d miss from land.
One thing these tours have in common: they all bring you closer to the water, which is what makes Ocean City special. We especially appreciate the Private Party Sunset Cruise for a personalized experience, perfect for small groups. Whether you’re a family, a couple, or a solo traveler, these options prove that there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy Ocean City from the water.
1. Sea Rocket Sunset & OC Harbor Cruise in Ocean City, MD
At number one, the Sea Rocket Sunset & OC Harbor Cruise offers a one-hour ride that combines scenic views with a touch of wildlife fun. This cruise is perfect for anyone who wants a quick but memorable experience, especially at sunset when the skyline glows over the Atlantic. You’ll cruise along Ocean City’s iconic harbor, lined with grand mansions, and have the chance to spot dolphins swimming alongside the boat. During the cruise, the crew spins music and shares interesting facts about local marine life, making it both entertaining and educational. The $43 per person price balances affordability with a quality experience, and the reviews reflect a solid 4.2/5 rating based on 75 reviews.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of relaxed vibe and scenic highlights. The sunset angle enhances the views, and dolphin sightings add a bit of excitement. It’s well-suited for casual travelers, families, and couples looking for a quick, memorable outing. Keep in mind, it’s only an hour long, so it’s easy to fit into a busy schedule.
Bottom Line: The Sea Rocket sunset cruise is a reliable, affordable way to enjoy Ocean City’s harbor, wildlife, and skyline, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of the water.
2. Ocean City: Sailing Catamaran Cruise with Crew
For around $110 per person, the Ocean City: Sailing Catamaran Cruise with Crew [] offers a more active, immersive experience on the open water. This two-hour sailing adventure takes you aboard a 50-foot catamaran, where you glide across the Atlantic, feeling the wind and waves firsthand. The crew, led by Captain Steve Butz who has extensive sailing experience, guides you safely out into the blue, sharing stories from his world sailing tours. The spacious boat features trampolines for lounging and plenty of room to move around.
The highlight for many is the chance to see dolphins join the boat as it cruises. The reviews are excellent—4.7/5 from nine reviews—indicating that travelers love the relaxed, scenic vibe and the smooth sailing experience. It’s a great choice for those who want more than a quick ride and prefer a hands-on adventure over a passive cruise. The trip’s longer duration justifies the higher price and makes it ideal for anyone who appreciates sailing or wants a more immersive water experience.
Bottom Line: This sailing trip offers a chance to feel like a true sailor, with the possibility of dolphin sightings and stunning Atlantic views. It’s perfect for adventurous travelers who want to spend more time on the water.
3. Private Party Sunset Cruise in Ocean City, MD
At number three, the Private Party Sunset Cruise [] is ideal for small groups seeking a personalized experience. Costing $229 for up to four people, this 75-minute cruise around Ocean City and Assateague Island offers a flexible, intimate way to enjoy the coast. The captain takes you on a scenic route, highlighting local sights like dolphins, ponies, historic harbor, yachts, and grand mansions.
What sets this tour apart is its exclusivity. It’s perfect for special occasions—anniversaries, birthdays, or just a private sunset with friends. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5/5 rating from only two reviews, emphasizing the quality of the experience and the attentive captain. The small vessel comfortably fits four, making for a cozy, tailored outing. Because it’s short and private, it’s a good value for a special experience.
Bottom Line: The Private Party Sunset Cruise is a top pick for small groups wanting a customized, scenic water adventure with the best sunset views and a chance to see local ponies and dolphins.
4. Ocean City: Bay Hopping Food Boat Tour with Tastings
Finally, the Bay Hopping Food Boat Tour with Tastings [] is a delightful way to combine local cuisine with a scenic cruise. For $179 per person, you spend three hours hopping between three restaurants along Ocean City’s coast, sampling delicious local dishes and enjoying cocktails and desserts. Between stops, relax on the boat while soaking in waterfowl and coastal scenery, including views of Sinepuxent Bay.
What makes this tour special is its focus on food and local flavors. It’s well-suited for foodies or anyone interested in a more leisurely, social experience. The reviews (4.5/5 from four reviews) highlight the tasty tastings and scenic cruise. It’s a flexible way to explore Ocean City’s culinary scene and waterfront at the same time. The longer duration and food stops make it more expensive, but the included tastings add value.
Bottom Line: The Bay Hopping Food Tour is perfect for culinary-minded travelers who want to enjoy local flavors while cruising Ocean City’s waters in comfort.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour for You
When selecting the right boat experience, consider your interests and schedule. If you want a quick sunset with dolphin sightings, the Sea Rocket Harbor Cruise fits the bill. For a more active adventure, the Sailing Catamaran offers a longer, hands-on sailing experience. Small groups or special celebrations might prefer the Private Party Sunset Cruise, especially if you value exclusivity. Food lovers should opt for the Bay Hopping Food Boat Tour to combine sightseeing with local eats.
Budget and time are also key—shorter cruises are more affordable but less immersive, while longer tours cost more but offer richer experiences. Book early, especially in summer, since these tours can fill up quickly.
In summary, Ocean City Maryland has a fantastic variety of boat tours that cater to different tastes and interests. Whether you want a scenic sunset cruise, a sailing adventure, or a food-focused water tour, there’s something to suit your style. For a quick taste of the harbor, the Sea Rocket is reliable and affordable. If you’re dreaming of feeling the wind in your hair, the Sailing Catamaran stands out. For a personalized celebration, the Private Party Cruise offers exclusivity. And for those who love eating and exploring, the Bay Hopping Food Tour combines deliciousness with scenic views.
Be sure to reserve your spot in advance, especially during peak season, and enjoy your time on the water in Ocean City. It’s a different way to experience this charming seaside town—and one you’re unlikely to forget.