Tangier Island Sunset Cruises

Meeting Location

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Advance purchase is strongly recommended, as cruises often sell out quickly. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please buy your tickets well in advance. Tickets can only be purchased with a Visa, Mastercard or American Express.

What happens if it rains?

Because we have plenty of areas on board to hide from the elements (such as our climate controlled enclosed cabin), we do go out rain or shine; however, we would never put our passengers in harm's way. In the event of severe or unsafe weather we would have to cancel, and you will be given the opportunity to reschedule to another available cruise.

Is the boat handicapped accessible?

The Steven Thomas does have a gangplank that will accommodate a 24" wide wheelchair or motorized scooter. If the wheelchair does not fit the gangplank and you can possibly walk aboard, we will load your wheelchair on the boat and transport it to the island for your convenience.

Can we bring our own bikes on board to the island?

No, not on the sunset cruise, as it will be dark by the time we finish dinner! However, you can bring your own bike aboard the boat to the island on a regular day trip at a cost of $2.00, but storage is limited (available upon purchasing tickets for a daytime cruise only).

Can we bring our own kayaks on board to the island?

Unfortunately no, as it will be dark by the time we finish dinner and you won't be able to go kayaking. It makes more sense to take our day trip if you want to bring a kayak - you can bring a kayak on our day trip for $10 (storage is limited though) if you'd like.

How can we get around the island easily?

You can walk around the island if you choose, since it is only about a mile wide and 3 miles long, or you can rent a bike or a golf cart to tour the island. A golf cart rental is $20, or a frequent choice of visitors is to hire one of the ladies on the island to give you a tour in a golf cart and have her show you all the points of interest and explain more about the island, which is $5 per person (available upon purchasing tickets). Each golf cart holds 8-10 people depending on the cart.

Can we bring our own food and drink on board?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks with you on the boat to the island.

Can we bring alcohol on board the boat?

Yes, you can bring alcohol on board the boat, however, Tangier is a "dry" island and no alcohol can be purchased on the island. That does not mean alcohol is not consumed on the island, but it cannot be purchased, and visitors are not allowed to drink alcohol in the open or on the street. We therefore suggest you leave your alcohol on the boat while touring the island. However, some guests bring a bottle of wine to a restaurant and enjoy it there.

Is there someone at the dock who can tell us more about the island and direct us where to go?

Yes, a tour guide - Lisa - meets the boat at the dock . She is the "Ambassador of Tangier" who can answer all your questions and direct you to different places of interest on the island.

Is there a reduced price for children or seniors?

No, this cruise only has one flat rate per person. All passengers regardless of age must have a ticket to attend.

Can I bring a pet on board?

Yes, passengers are allowed to bring pets as long as you clean up after them and keep them on a leash. Pets are welcome on Tangier Island as well.

What will we see while on the Steven Thomas?

You will enjoy the scenery of the Chesapeake Bay and the Tangier Sound as well as a beautiful sunset. The trip is about 14 miles and along the way you'll see the chain of islands that form the Tangier Sound. Catch a glimpse of waterfowl and learn the history of a few of the other islands in the bay, such as Fox's Island, Watts Island and Port Isabel!

What kind of food and drinks are available at the on board snack bar? Do you accept credit cards?

The on board snack bar is cash only, and offers water, Coke, Diet Coke, Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, and Sprite. Food options include packets of chips, crackers, or cookies (ranging from $.50 to $1). Bring extra cash with you if you'd like to enjoy refreshments on board!

Should I tip the crew?

If you enjoyed your cruise gratuities are greatly appreciated!

Are there life jackets on board?

Yes, the Steven Thomas has life jackets for every passenger, including children. Passengers are not required to wear life jackets during the cruise, however.

Is smoking allowed?

Yes, smoking is allowed, but only on the outdoor areas of the boat (not in the enclosed cabin).

Are restrooms available?

Yes, separate men's and women's restrooms are available on board.

Is the cruise appropriate for pregnant women?

Pregnant women are definitely permitted to cruise with us. Of course those who have any concern should consult with a doctor beforehand.

Can I stow my personal belongings on board?

Yes, if you are bringing luggage or other personal items, you can bring them on board with you.

Can I leave any belongings on board during the stay at the island?

Yes, you are welcome to leave your belongings on the Steven Thomas and come back any time to pick them up. Guests often leave jackets or bags on board. The boat will be monitored by our mates at all times.

Will I get seasick?

You'll find that the Tangier Sound is calm and seasickness is almost never an issue. Furthermore, the Steven Thomas is a 90 foot boat and is very stable on the water. However, if you are particularly prone to motion sickness, then you should take preventative measures beforehand.

Are gift certificates available?

Yes, gift certificates for round trip island cruises and our sunset cruises are available. Please click on the "Contact TangierIC" link to request a gift certificate.

Are private charters available?

Yes, private charters for your group aboard the Steven Thomas are available. To inquire, please click on the "Contact TangierIC" link and let us know what you're interested in!

Are group discounts available?

Unfortunately there are no group discounts available for this cruise. If you have a group of 25 or more and would like request another date for a sunset cruise, click on the "Contact TangierIC" link and let us know what you're interested in!

Tangier Island Cruises, Inc.