Pony Swim FAQ

Q: Where do the ponies swim?

A: The Ponies swim across the Assateague Channel, from Assateague Island (where they live all year) to Chincoteague Island. They come out of the water at "Pony Swim Lane", near Memorial Park, on the east side of Chincoteague Island (see map below).

Q: When do the ponies swim?

The swim takes place at "slack tide". Slack tide is a period of about 30 minutes between tides, when there is no current. This is the easiest time for the ponies to make the swim. The time of slack tide varies each year. However, the swim generally takes place some time between 7am and 1pm. The specific time will be announced at the carnival grounds the week of the swim.

Q: Why do the ponies swim?

A: The purpose of the swim is to move the herd to Chincoteague Island so that the foals can be auctioned. The auction serves two purposes. First the auction helps to control the size of the herd. The natural habitat on Assateague Island can only support a limited number of horses-- about 150, according to the Fish & Wildlife Service. The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, which owns and manages the herd, must keep the herd at an appropriate size in order to maintain the habitat and not hurt the delicate salt marsh ecosystem. The easiest and most humane way of accomplishing this is to auction off most of the foals every year. Secondly, the auction is a fund raiser for the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company. The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company uses the proceeds from the auction to buy fire fighting equipment and to provide veterinary care for the herd.

Q: Where's the best place to see the pony swim?

A: The best way to see the pony swim up close is on a Charter Boat. However, spots on these boats for the pony swim are in very high demand, and seats go for a premium price. If you want to get on a charterboat for the swim be sure to reserve your spot at least several months in advance. Click here for a listing of local Charterboats. The closet place on land to see the swim is 'Pony Swim Lane', however space here is limited and you must get there very early in the morning to get a spot. Most people watch the swim from Memorial Park (see map below).

Q: What is the best way to get to the site of the swim?

A: The only parking at Memorial Park is designated for handicap use. All folks coming in just for the day should go to the Chincoteague Combined School (4586 Main St. Chincoteague Island, VA 23336) and catch the free shuttle. Those lodging on Chincoteague Island may catch a shuttle bus near their lodging. A handicap accessible bus is available. We recommend getting started early on this day and to anticipate a heavy crowd. Click here to view the shuttle bus map. Click here for tips on riding the shuttle to Pony Swim events.

Q: What happens after the swim?

After the swim, the ponies rest for about 45 minutes. Then the Saltwater Cowboys will "parade" the ponies down Main Street, to the carnival grounds where the auction will be held Thursday morning. The parade route is shown on the Shuttle Bus Map.

Q: What should I take with me to the pony swim?

A: The operators of the shuttle ask that you bring only what you can fit in your lap, so pack a small bag. The three most important things to take with you are plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Plan for it to be very hot and very humid. Many folks like to wear their bathing suits under their clothes. You can also take a wide-brimmed hat, a cheap shower curtain (to put on the marsh mud so you can sit down or take off your shoes while waiting for the swim,) and some entertainment for any children accompanying you. Don’t forget your camera! But, again, remember, you are probably going to get DIRTY and WET so keep your expensive electronics in a plastic baggie just to be safe.

Q: Isn’t it cruel to force the ponies to swim? They look like they are struggling.

A: Ponies are actually very good swimmers. Their haunches and hooves are powerful and can propel them through the water with ease. Foals too young to make the swim are trailered to the Carnival Grounds with their mothers. Pony committee members follow the herd closely in boats to ensure that none of the foals are in danger of exhaustion or drowning. In 89 years of pony swims, the saltwater cowboys have never lost a pony.

Q: Who are the Saltwater Cowboys?

A: Many of them began riding with their fathers or grandfathers as children. Many are members and supporters of the Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, which owns and manages the herd. A number of volunteers from around the country return year after year to help with the roundup.

Q: When and where is the auction?

A: The auction takes place at the rear of the Carnival Grounds on Main Street (see map below). The auction runs from approximately 8am until Noon on the Thursday following Wednesday's swim.

Q: How do I buy a pony?

A: All you have to do is raise your hand! You do not need to register for a number, like at regular auctions. There are bid spotters at the auction who will signal your bid to the auctioneer. Be aware that the only forms of payment accepted are cash, Visa, and Mastercard. Personal checks are NOT accepted. You also must provide appropriate transportation to get your new foal to its home.

Q: What should I take with me to the auction?

A: The bleachers typically fill up pretty early, so you’ll want to take a lawn/beach/camping chair as well as plenty of water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. It can get really hot, so a hat is also recommended. Bring your wallet, too, if you’re expecting to purchase a foal (cash, Visa, MasterCard only) or enjoy the carnival afterward!

Q: Why are the foals auctioned off?

A: The natural habitat on Assateague Island can only support a limited number of horses-- about 150, according to the Fish & Wildlife Service. The Chincoteague Volunteer Fire Company, which owns and manages the herd, must keep the herd at an appropriate size in order to maintain the habitat and not hurt the delicate salt marsh ecosystem. The easiest and most humane way of accomplishing this is to auction off most of the foals every year.

Q: Isn’t it cruel to separate the foals from their mothers at such a young age?

A: The pony committee is very careful to only separate foals from their mothers at the appropriate age, when they can eat solid food and would begin to be pushed away from nursing naturally (around 3 months). Any foals younger than this are kept at the carnival grounds with their mothers until the Fall Roundup, when the buyer can come pick up their foal.

Q: I wanted to purchase a pony at the auction, but got outbid. Do I have any other options?

A: The Chincoteague Pony Farm usually has a few foals or yearlings for sale for very reasonable prices. You can visit their website at www.chincoteagueponyfarm.com. The Chincoteague Pony Centre also has foals and young Chincoteague Ponies for sale. You can visit their website at www.chincoteague.com/ponycentre

Q: Where can I get more information about the Pony Swim.

A: Check out the Pony Swim Guide for day by day details.