Friday, Dec. 8: Seabird Safari
Seabird Safari on the OC Bay Hopper (BOATING)
Date and Time: Friday, Dec. 8, 12:00 – 2:00 pm and 2:30 – 4:30 pm
Cost: $80/person
Meeting Location: the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor boat ramp, located across the street from 12803 Sunset Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842
Register for the 12:00 – 2:00 pm trip.
Please note: we had a cancellation at 9:00 am on Thursday, Dec. 7. We have one spot open on the 12:00 – 2:00 pm boat.
The 2:30 – 4:30 pm boat trip is sold out.
You won’t believe the variety of birds that inhabit the coastal bays near Ocean City in December! Many migratory species make their way here to spend the winter in the waters that surround Ocean City and Assateague Island.
We’ll meet our friends with the OC Bay Hopper at the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor. From there, we’ll investigate the bayside OC docks from M.R. Duck’s south to the inlet (there are usually good shorebirds hiding out there!), then we’ll cruise by the Assateague jetty for sea ducks. From there, we’ll explore the backside of Assateague south towards Castaways campground, then back to the harbor. For a sample of the species we may discover in December, check out these eBird hotspots:
The cruise will feature a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain and a DBW Guide, so you will be in good hands. Please note that only water is provided onboard and restrooms are not available during the trip.
Trips may be canceled in the event of strong, gusting winds or dangerous weather. If a trip is canceled, you will be notified via email 24 hours prior to the trip departure. Full refunds will be provided within 15 days.
Getting there, parking and restrooms:
The West Ocean City boat ramp is located across the street from 12803 Sunset Ave, Ocean City, MD 21842. Try to arrive at least 15-20 minutes before the scheduled trip departs to park your vehicle and load your gear on the boat. Your birding guide will meet you at the public restrooms at least 30 minutes prior to departure to check you in. For our specific meeting location, use GPS coordinates: 38.327649, -75.106702.
The boat ramp and parking area are located in the West Ocean City Commercial Harbor. Parking is free, but please park in spaces dedicated for vehicles only. Do not park in spaces large enough for vehicles with boat trailers. There are a number of great nearby restaurants and bars to visit before and after your tour, including The Shark on the Harbor, Sunset Grille, and the world-famous Harborside Bar & Grill (home of the original fresh-squeezed Orange Crush!).
There is no head/toilet on the OC Bay Hopper, so please use the public restroom in the harbor prior to departure. The restroom is located next to the boat ramp. Even if you don’t have to go when you arrive — please use the restroom! Two hours can be a long time with no potty breaks.
Check out our Google Map with our meeting location and approximate boating route:
Some common sense approaches to make your birding boat trip more enjoyable:
- The OC Bay Hopper is not enclosed. Wear appropriate clothing and shoes for December weather! Temps on the water are often 10-15 degrees cooler than land.
- There is no “head” on the boat, so please visit a restroom before the trip departs.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses and/or a hat to protect yourself from the sun. You can still get a sunburn in December.
- Bring rain gear as all events are rain or shine.
- Try to arrive a little before the scheduled trip departs.
- If you are prone to seasickness, you may want to consider Dramamine or Bonine (both are sold over-the-counter), or whatever natural preventative you prefer. Please don’t wait until you’re on the boat to take your medication. Follow the instructions to make sure you have a great experience birding and boating on Maryland’s coastal bays.
- Most trips are not appropriate for young children. Please use your discretion when registering.
- Be courteous to your fellow birders. Speak quietly and turn off cell phones during trips.
Cancellation Policy:
- No refunds after December 1, 2023.
- Trips may be canceled in the event of strong, gusting winds or dangerous weather. If a trip is canceled, you will be notified via email 24 hours prior to the trip departure. Full refunds will be provided within 15 days.