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Tangier Island is a community inextricably connected to the Chesapeake Bay. Its residents speak in a dialect reminiscent of the British-inflected accents heard on the Outer Banks of North Carolina—evidence of the original 17th-century English settlers and the relative isolation in which the island’s culture developed. The true main street of the island's tiny town is the channel that runs through it, busy with crab boats and skiffs, the daily mail boat, and cruise ships.
Join naturalist Keith Tomlinson as he leads a day devoted to discovering Tangier Island’s unique charms and attractions. Learn about the history of the bay during the bus ride to Reedville, Virginia, then board the Chesapeake Breeze for a 1 1/2-hour cruise across the bay’s main shipping lane. Crew members discuss Chesapeake commerce and culture, and passengers can watch for coastal birds such as ospreys, as well as large freighters and many small working and pleasure craft.
Begin your approximately 2-1/4 hours on the island by enjoying a family-style seafood lunch at Hilda Crockett’s Chesapeake House, a local institution. During some free time afterward, you can explore on your own or walk the island with your study leader.
Fringe stop at about 7:10 a.m.
This tour has a minimum age of 14 years old; cameras and binoculars are recommended. Please note: The drive to Reedville, Virginia, is approximately 3 hours.
