Captain Joe’s goal has always been to offer the freshest shrimp possible. This means head-on shrimp, because they keep juices inside for the best possible flavor.
In 1989, Captain Joe started with an umbrella, a scale, and a couple of chairs outside of a box truck alongside the highway. Today, the Shrimp Boat has become the most extensive line of seafood offerings in Ocean City including stone crabs, hand-cut, sushi-grade tuna fillets, clams and live lobster.
Captain Joe’s original “try it before you buy it” free sample policy quickly turned shrimp novices into enthusiasts.
As word spread about The Shrimp Boat, it grew into a family business, where Joe’s kids, nieces and nephews have worked alongside him. In 2012, the Shrimp Boat officially became a restaurant with a full menu, beer and wine, and comfortable seating to meet customer demand. Captain Joe still works at the restaurant today and his nephew, Joe White, has taken over day-to-day operations.
Many of today’s regulars are third-generation customers, who have grown up indulging in their Shrimp Boat favorites their whole lives, whether as locals or returning on family vacations. Our customers are very special to us and we pride ourselves on bringing them the best fresh seafood and greatest service experience. We are fortunate to have met so many interesting characters who have dined in our restaurant, shared their fish stories and starred in photos with our famous shrimp sign over the past 34 years.