For the best waterway experience in Wilmington, North Carolina, three standout boat tours deserve attention. The efficient Eagles Island cruise packs plenty of local history into a 50-minute trip down the Cape Fear River – perfect for travelers on a tight schedule. We love the 2-hour Sunset Sail from Wrightsville Beach for its relaxed pace and spectacular evening views aboard a certified yacht. Private sailing charters – while pricier – offer the most flexibility and intimacy for families or small groups wanting to explore at their own pace.
Let’s look at the details of these top Wilmington boat tours.
Key Points
- The Eagles Island Boat Cruise offers an affordable 50-minute narrated cruise along the Cape Fear River with live commentary on local history and ecology.
- The Sunset Sail Tour provides a scenic 2-hour yacht tour at Wrightsville Beach, praised for its atmosphere and captain engagement.
- Private Sailing Charters from the downtown riverfront offer exclusive experiences with scenic views, commentary, and flexible scheduling options.
- Cruises in Wilmington provide opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy picturesque views of waterways and barrier islands.
- Tour operators offer various amenities, such as restrooms, refreshments, and safety measures, catering to different accessibility needs and preferences.
Eagles Island 50 Minute Narrated Boat Cruise
The Eagles Island 50 Minute Narrated Boat Cruise transports visitors on a captivating journey along the Cape Fear River. Departing from downtown Wilmington, this approximately 1-hour tour offers flexible scheduling with multiple afternoon cruise times.
Guests can expect engaging live commentary that covers the area’s rich history and ecology, accompanied by scenic views of the river and Eagle Island.
The cruise boasts onboard amenities like restrooms for convenience, and refreshments are available for purchase. Travelers can choose between exploring the historic downtown or cruising under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge.
With instant mobile ticketing and language options in English, the experience caters to diverse preferences. Priced affordably from $24, the tour provides an excellent value proposition.
Reviewers praise the friendly crew and knowledgeable narrators, though some note the tour could offer more engaging scenery. The Eagles Island 50 Minute Narrated Boat Cruise promises a relaxing and informative sightseeing experience on the Cape Fear River.
Read our full review: Eagles Island 50 Minute Narrated Boat Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunset Sail Tour
A 42-foot yacht offers visitors a scenic Sunset Sail Tour at Wrightsville Beach. The tour, which lasts approximately two hours, provides stunning views of the area’s waterways and barrier islands.
Departing from Access Ramp on Trails End Road in Wilmington, North Carolina, the Sunset Sail Tour is priced at $125.00, with morning, afternoon, and sunset cruise options available.
Guests consistently rate the tour 5.0 out of 5 based on 82 reviews, praising the relaxing atmosphere, scenic views, and friendly environment. Many highlight the knowledge and engagement of the captain, who shares insights on local history.
However, some have noted concerns about the boat’s condition and the availability of refreshments.
The vessel is USCG inspected, ensuring safety compliance. Life jackets are provided, and safety briefings are given before sailing.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes children aged 6 and above. Opportunities to observe wildlife and a personalized sailing experience make this tour a unique offering in Wilmington.
Read our full review: Sunset Sail Tour Review
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Sailing Charters in Wilmington
Frequently, visitors to Wilmington opt for exclusive private sailboat charters to experience the city’s waterfront from a unique perspective.
These charters typically last around 2 hours and depart from the downtown riverfront, allowing passengers to view state ports and other landmarks along the Wilmington riverwalk. With a capacity of up to 6 travelers, the charters offer a relaxing, scenic experience complete with informative commentary from the captain.
Guests can choose from morning, afternoon, or sunset tours, and they’re welcome to bring their own refreshments to enjoy on the water. The charters provide a convenient, paperless experience, with instant mobile ticketing available.
While the tours aren’t wheelchair accessible, they’re stroller-friendly and located near public transportation. Flexible cancellation policies and high-rated reviews from past passengers further enhance the appeal of these sailing charters in Wilmington.
Read our full review: Sailing Charters in Wilmington Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Wilmington offers an array of enjoyable cruises and boat tours. The Eagles Island 50 Minute Narrated Boat Cruise provides an informative tour, while the Sunset Sail Tour allows visitors to take in the city’s stunning views. For a more personalized experience, Wilmington’s sailing charters offer the opportunity to explore the area’s waterways. Whether seeking a leisurely cruise or a sailing adventure, there’s something for all in this coastal city.