When people mention Captain Chris Ludford, the words “passionate” and “energized” are typically exchanged at some point in the conversation. That passion and energy are evident when he talks enthusiastically about his business (Pleasure House Oysters) and the available on-the-water heritage tours he provides from his location on beautiful Lynnhaven Bay in Virginia Beach. Captain Ludford comes from a family of working watermen and was himself a commercial crabber before starting his own business growing farm-raised oysters for local restaurants in the area. Because of the growing interest in oyster aquaculture state-wide, and his proximity to the largest city in the state, the demand for his unique brand of watermen’s heritage tours continues to grow.
Captain Ludford owns and operates several work boats out of Lynnhaven Municipal Marina in the north end of Virginia Beach. His latest addition to the fleet is a customized 24’ Carolina skiff (the “Cap’n Lee”) which is specially outfitted to take larger groups into the shallow coves and marsh areas of the Bay where the oysters are grown to market size. Come and join Captain Ludford out on the Bay and learn what it takes to grow the legendary Lynnhaven oysters in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner. Let him tailor a tour (and a tasting!) for you and your family to remember for years to come.
Let Captain Ludford design the perfect tour for you and your family that will be the highlight of your next visit to Virginia Beach!