OC Bay Hopper – Happy Hour Cruise

Ocean City’s OC Bay Hopper – Happy Hour Cruise: A Relaxing Bay Adventure

If you’re in Ocean City looking to unwind, the OC Bay Hopper – Happy Hour Cruise offers a laid-back, adult-only escape on the water. For just $45 per person, you’ll hop aboard one of their Bay Hoppers at 118th Street and glide across Assawoman Bay for about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cruise is designed for those who want to kick back, sip an ice-cold drink, and enjoy some scenic views, all while leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the shore.

What we love about this experience is how it balances relaxation with informal fun. The free first drink really sets the tone for a leisurely vibe, and the small group size (max 5 travelers) makes it feel intimate and personal. Plus, the friendly, knowledgeable captains bring a touch of local insight that enhances the peaceful ride.

The only hesitation might be the price, which some could see as a bit steep for a short cruise, especially if you’re expecting a more elaborate tour. However, when you consider the included drinks, personalized service, and scenic setting, many find it well worth the cost. This cruise is best suited for adults who want a casual, social experience—perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking to relax in style.

Key Points

• Relaxing Experience: An hour and 15-minute cruise perfect for unwinding.
• Adults-Only: Must be 21 or older, making it ideal for grown-up fun.
• Included Drinks: Your first beverage is free, with options like beer, twisted teas, and seltzers.
• Small Groups: Max 5 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Captains like Wes and Eric offer friendly insights about the bay.
• Great Value for Money: Combines scenic beauty, drinks, and intimacy for a fair price.

An In-Depth Look at the OC Bay Hopper – Happy Hour Cruise

The Setting: Gliding Across Assawoman Bay

From the moment you arrive at the 118th Street location, the vibe is relaxed. The Bay Hopper boats are cozy, designed for comfort and intimacy rather than mass tourism. As you board, you’ll notice the glass-smooth water of Assawoman Bay, which provides an ideal setting for a calm, picturesque cruise.

The duration of 1 hour and 15 minutes might seem short, but it’s just enough to enjoy a stress-melting experience without feeling rushed. The environment is perfect for unwinding, chatting with companions, or just soaking up the views.

What Makes the Cruise Special?

One of the highlight features is how the cruise combines scenic beauty with a casual drinking experience. The boat is stocked with your choice of beer, twisted teas, or alcoholic seltzers—and your first drink is free. This thoughtful touch encourages a leisurely pace, making the cruise feel like a true break from everyday stress.

Another key point that visitors often mention is the friendly demeanor and knowledge of the captains. Donna E. notes that her captain Wes was “so nice & knowledgeable about the Bay,” which adds a friendly, local flavor to the trip. This personal touch, along with the small group size, makes the experience feel exclusive rather than commercial.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

While the cruise’s main focus is relaxation and scenery, the itinerary includes some interesting sights. You’ll glide across the calm waters of Assawoman Bay, with views that seem almost surreal when the water looks like glass.

Some reviews highlight sightings of Assateague Island horses and local homes and restaurants visible from the water. Though the cruise doesn’t seem to have multiple scheduled stops, the viewing of homes and the natural surroundings offers plenty of photo opportunities and conversation starters.

Authentic Perspective From Travelers

Many reviews emphasize the relaxing and intimate nature of this cruise. Donna E. says she “wished it could have been longer,” underscoring how enjoyable and calming the ride was. Lisa W. appreciated seeing the horses at Assateague Island and found the staff “very friendly,” adding to the relaxed atmosphere.

Kimberly R. praises the fun and knowledgeable captain, noting the experience was relaxing and not crowded with just five people onboard. Katie H. called it the “best excursion money” she spent in OC, highlighting the relaxing ride and friendly captain.

Kathy Anne F. appreciated her captain Eric’s personable approach and how he pointed out local sites, making the trip informative despite less-than-ideal weather. This demonstrates that even in less than perfect conditions, the crew strives to make the experience worthwhile.

Practical Details

• Booking in advance is recommended (average 21 days ahead), reflecting its popularity.
• The tour is booked via a mobile ticket, making it convenient.
• It’s near public transportation, although most travelers likely arrive by car.
• The cruise operates with a maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring personalized service.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, offering peace of mind in case of weather or schedule changes.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This Happy Hour Cruise is ideal for adults seeking a slow, scenic escape. It’s perfect if you enjoy casual drinks and intimate settings, and don’t mind a shorter experience. It suits small groups, couples, or solo travelers who want a personalized and relaxed outing without the crowds. If you’re looking for a quick, scenic break with a touch of social fun, this cruise offers great value.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Experience?

The OC Bay Hopper – Happy Hour Cruise provides a genuinely relaxing way to enjoy Ocean City’s natural beauty. The small group size and friendly guides turn a simple boat ride into a memorable, stress-free escape. The inclusion of your first drink enhances the laid-back vibe, making it clear that this cruise is about unwinding and enjoying the moment.

While it’s not a lengthy tour, the scenic views, intimate setting, and personalized service make it a worthwhile choice for adults wanting a low-key, fun experience on the water. If you’re happy to spend a little on a quality, relaxing outing that offers excellent value, this cruise should definitely be on your list.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for children?
No, this is an adults-only experience. You must be 21 or older to participate.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, enough to unwind without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
Your first adult beverage (beer, twisted teas, or seltzers) is included. You can purchase more drinks on board.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the trip. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How many people are on each cruise?
The boat holds a maximum of 5 travelers, ensuring a private, intimate experience.

Are there any stops during the cruise?
No scheduled stops; the cruise focuses on scenic views and relaxation on Assawoman Bay.

Is the cruise accessible by public transportation?
It’s near public transportation, but most travelers probably arrive by car.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, hats, and any personal items. Drinks are provided, but you might want to bring extra cash for additional purchases.

What if I want to extend the experience?
You could book the Sunset Cruise or other nearby excursions, but this particular ride is designed to be a quick, relaxing escape.

Is it good value for the price?
Yes, considering the personalized service, scenic beauty, and included drinks, many find it a worthwhile splurge.

This relaxed, friendly cruise offers a perfect blend of scenery, drinks, and good company. Whether you’re visiting Ocean City for a quick break or looking for a memorable way to unwind, the OC Bay Hopper’s Happy Hour Cruise makes for a simple, enjoyable outing you’ll remember.