At a Glance
The coastal waters surrounding Chincoteague Island off Virginia’s Atlantic coast were once known for their salty oysters until overfishing nearly depleted the harvest during the 19th century. Today, a new “aquaculture” industry is emerging as the famous oysters known as the “Chincoteague Salts” return. Local waters also offer excellent grounds for clamming and crabbing, and sea-to-table restaurants abound for enjoying these bountiful harvests. During this hands-on seafood extravaganza, get your feet wet as you join local shellfishers and crabbers to hunt for clams, oysters and the famous blue crab, and head to the kitchen with experienced chefs to learn how to make historic and modern Chincoteague dishes. Along the way, learn about the re-emerging aquaculture industry and from those who live it, and find out about the challenges faced by those who work on the water.