The Chincoteague Ponies have been the main attraction to our island since Margaret Henry penned the children's book, "Misty". Each year, between 40 - 60,000 people travel from around the world to view this famous event as the Ponies swim from their barrier island home, Assateague to Chincoteague Island.

The Penning event has a history of over 200 years. Initially starting out as a "sheep penning", then in the 1920's the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company (CVFC) organized the event with the wild ponies of Assateague and began the Pony Swim, Penning and Auction as a means to generate monies to update their fire and medical equipment.

Legends claim the ponies survived a ship wreck and swam to shore on Assateague Island. It is rumored their smaller size is contributed to the lack of nutritional food and fresh water. However, the CVFC provides food and water during severe weather/winters and routine visits from a veterinarian to insure good health for their prized herds.

The Pony Swim is always held the last Wednesday in July - regardless of the weather - the swim takes place. The auction is held the following day. The most comfortable way to view this event is from a boat; otherwise you are standing in thigh deep saltwater for several hours waiting for the low tide. The ponies make the swim on slack, low tide. The wait can be anywhere from 3 - 6 hours. Capt Bob's Marina no longer rents our boats for this event, however, we can help get you on the water with a charter captain. Give us a call. (757) 336-6654

Charters are usually available for the swim back at a much more economical price.