North Carolina’s Wilmington offers practical and memorable boat tours for every traveler. The most satisfying options combine comfort with authentic local experiences.
We especially like the Sunset Sail Tour on a well-maintained 42-foot yacht – it’s the perfect mix of relaxation and scenery. The Wilmington Blackwater River Cruise stands out for its informative local commentary and wildlife spotting opportunities. For travelers seeking flexibility, private sailing charters provide customizable routes and personal attention.
The Island Hopper Cruise from Wrightsville Beach delivers consistent value, combining dolphin watching with beach stops. Back in town, seasoned sailors offer intimate sailing experiences with historical insights.
Let’s explore the top boat tours that make Wilmington’s waters worth exploring:
Key Points
- Sunset Sail Tour offers scenic voyages through Wilmington’s tranquil waters aboard a 42-foot yacht with a maximum of 6 guests and various cruise options.
- Sailing Charters in Wilmington provide private sailboat tours by Captain Oliver Parody, with a 5-star rating and scenic views of downtown riverwalk and waterfront landmarks.
- Wilmington Blackwater River Cruise offers a unique cruise along the Cape Fear River with onboard commentary on history and wildlife, accommodating up to 49 travelers.
- Private Sailboat Charter provides personalized sailing adventures for groups of up to 6, with customizable sailing routes and experiences.
- Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach offers a scenic boat tour exploring surrounding islands, with opportunities for shelling and dolphin observation.
Sunset Sail Tour
The Sunset Sail Tour whisks visitors away on a scenic voyage through the tranquil waters surrounding Wilmington. Aboard a 42-foot yacht, passengers can enjoy a personalized experience with a maximum of 6 guests.
The tour offers morning, afternoon, and sunset cruise options, each providing stunning views of Masonboro Island, Motts Channel, and the Wrightsville Beach drawbridge. Passengers may bring their own wine and beer, with an ice chest, corkscrew, and glasses provided.
An experienced captain guides the tour, and onboard bathroom facilities ensure comfort throughout the approximately 2-hour excursion.
With a 5.0 rating and 98% recommendation, the Sunset Sail Tour is an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing and picturesque adventure on the water.
Sailing Charters in Wilmington
Sailing charters in Wilmington offer visitors a chance to experience the city’s picturesque waterways from a unique perspective.
With a 5-star rating and 99% recommendation from travelers, Captain Oliver Parody’s private sailboat tours are a must-try. The charters, priced from $89 per person, accommodate up to 6 passengers and feature scenic views of the downtown riverwalk, state ports, and waterfront landmarks.
Customers praise the captain’s hospitality, knowledge, and safety, as well as the relaxing and informative atmosphere.
Whether you opt for a morning, afternoon, or sunset sail, you’re guaranteed a memorable experience on the Cape Fear River.
Wilmington Blackwater River Cruise
Travelers seeking a unique and serene experience can embark on the Black Water Adventure Cruise in Wilmington, offering a leisurely journey along the picturesque Cape Fear River.
The 100% traveler-recommended cruise provides insights on the area’s history and wildlife through onboard commentary. With a maximum of 49 travelers, the tour is ideal for those with limited time, featuring wheelchair accessibility and allowing service animals.
Reviewers praise the relaxing atmosphere and the guide’s excellent narration, with the cruise boasting an overall 5-star rating. The tour, which includes alcoholic beverages and gratuities, departs at 10:00 am from the Downtown Riverwalk, with travelers advised to arrive 10 minutes early for check-in.
Wilmington North Carolina Private Sailboat Charter
Exploring the picturesque waters of Wilmington, North Carolina, the Private Sailboat Charter offers a unique opportunity for groups of up to six guests to embark on a personalized sailing adventure.
Boasting a 92% recommendation rate from travelers, this 3-hour excursion allows guests to customize their sailing route and experience secluded anchorages or offshore sailing.
The captain shares local stories, and guests can participate in sailing or simply relax while enjoying the included bottled water.
With a moderate physical fitness level required, the charter isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or serious medical conditions.
Conveniently located at the Trails End Access Ramp, the Private Sailboat Charter is available Monday through Sunday.
Island Hopper Cruise in Wrightsville Beach
From Wrightsville Beach, guests can embark on the Island Hopper Cruise, a scenic boat tour that takes them to explore the surrounding islands.
The cruise departs from the Carolina Runner, offering a maximum group size of 25 travelers. During the experience, guests can expect a relaxing boat ride, opportunities for shelling, and chances to observe wildlife like dolphins.
The friendly and knowledgeable crew enhances the experience, with 100% of travelers recommending the cruise. Priced starting from $0.00 per person, the Island Hopper Cruise provides a memorable and enjoyable family activity along the North Carolina coast.
Classic Yacht Charter Around Wrightsville Beach
For those seeking a more intimate and exclusive boating experience around Wrightsville Beach, the Classic Yacht Charter offers a picturesque tour aboard a Hinckley 36 Picnic Boat.
With a captain provided, guests aged 18 and over can enjoy alcoholic beverages as they cruise the waters. The tour departs from and returns to the public boat ramp on the southeast side of the S. Banks Channel Bridge in Wrightsville Beach.
While the vessel isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions.
Common Questions
How Long Is the Average Boat Tour in Wilmington?
The average boat tour in Wilmington typically lasts between 1 to 2 hours, providing visitors with a scenic experience on the water. Tour durations can vary depending on the specific itinerary and activities included in the excursion.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Most boat tour companies allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. However, it’s best to check with the specific operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or rules regarding outside items.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Wilmington Boat Tours?
Most Wilmington boat tour companies don’t have strict age restrictions, but some may require children to be accompanied by an adult. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator for their policies on minimum age requirements.
Do the Boats Provide Life Jackets for Passengers?
The boats typically provide life jackets for all passengers as a safety precaution. Most tour operators ensure that adequate life jackets are available and require passengers to wear them during the cruise for their protection.
Can I Request a Specific Type of Boat for My Tour?
Passengers can typically request a specific type of boat for their tour, subject to availability. Many companies offer various boat options, such as sailboats, catamarans, or pontoon boats, to accommodate guests’ preferences and needs.
The Sum Up
Wilmington and the surrounding area offer a variety of boat tours and cruises that cater to different interests. From sunset sails and chartered sailboats to river cruises and island hopping, there’s something for all to enjoy on the water. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing experience or a more adventurous outing, these options provide a unique way to explore the coastal landscape of North Carolina.