Answer
The Ocean City Inlet bar shoals shift with tide and storm fetch—shallow drafts and small boats suffer on ebb with opposing wind. Captains delay departures; self-launchers should read charts and marine forecasts together. Tourist GPS does not show bar waves.
Sources: U.S. Coast Guard · NOAA Tides & Currents · Visit Ocean City
Editorial visitor guidance for Ocean City, Maryland. Confirm current Town of Ocean City, Maryland DNR, NPS Assateague, and NWS rules when regulations or safety apply.
