Three standout boat tours await at Wrightsville Beach, with options suited for any schedule or interest. The top pick is the 2-hour Sunset Sailboat Cruise, combining expert narration with memorable coastal views. Departing from Trails End Access Ramp, the afternoon sail deserves attention for its wildlife spotting – especially dolphins and coastal birds during the two-hour journey. Those seeking exclusivity will appreciate the Private Sailboat option, a 2.5-hour customizable experience perfect for intimate wildlife viewing.
I especially love the sunset cruise for its unmatched photography opportunities and the afternoon sail for consistently good dolphin sightings. Each tour offers comfortable seating and flexible cancellation policies.
Let’s look at our favorite Wrightsville Beach boat experiences.
Key Points
- The Sunset Sailboat Cruise offers a 2-hour excursion with a knowledgeable captain, live commentary, and the opportunity to view local marine life and ecology.
- The Afternoon Sailboat Cruise departs from the Trails End Access Ramp, lasts 2 hours, and features the chance to spot dolphins and rare birds.
- The Private Sailboat Cruise provides a customizable 2.5-hour adventure focusing on dolphin watching and marine life viewing, with a spacious deck and comfortable cockpit.
- All cruises include complimentary bottled water, a comfortable interior lounge, and an outside deck for scenic views and wildlife spotting.
- Highlights of the cruises include the opportunity to see dolphins, pelicans, and rare birds, as well as scenic sailing through the barrier islands and Intracoastal Waterway.
Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Sunset Sailboat Cruise
A popular option for visitors to Wrightsville Beach is the Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Sunset Sailboat Cruise. This 2-hour excursion takes small groups of up to 6 participants on a relaxing journey through the Intracoastal Waterway and barrier islands, culminating in the chance to observe a stunning sunset over the water.
Led by an experienced captain with over 30 years of sailing experience, the cruise provides live commentary on the local marine life and ecology. Participants can choose to relax on the spacious outside deck or in the comfortable interior lounge, while keeping an eye out for rare birds like the least tern and black skimmer.
Complimentary bottled water is provided throughout the trip. Priced from $108.03 per person, the Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Sunset Sailboat Cruise offers a unique and memorable experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay later option available, it’s easy to secure your spot on this highly-rated tour.
Read our full review: Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Sunset Sailboat Cruise Review
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Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Afternoon Sailboat Cruise
Departing from the Trails End Access Ramp, the Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Afternoon Sailboat Cruise takes guests on a 2-hour journey to explore the barrier islands protecting Wrightsville Beach.
Priced at €102.23 per person, this limited group tour (up to 6 participants) offers an opportunity to spot dolphins, view marine life, and enjoy scenic sailing.
After a 15-minute safety briefing, guests will set sail, guided by the knowledgeable captain.
The cruise features an outside deck and comfortable interior lounge, providing ample space to observe the surrounding barrier islands and search for rare birds like the least tern and black skimmer.
Complimentary bottled water is provided.
With an overall 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, this cruise is highly recommended by travelers for its wonderful outing.
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the option to reserve now and pay later is available.
Read our full review: Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Afternoon Sailboat Cruise Review
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Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Private Sailboat Cruise
The Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Private Sailboat Cruise offers a customizable 2.5-hour sailing adventure along the protected barrier islands. Priced at $852.84 for up to 6 participants, the cruise includes a guided tour with a focus on dolphin watching, marine life viewing, and scenic highlights.
Guests can work with the captain to customize their itinerary, exploring offshore or the Intracoastal Waterway and finding secluded anchorages.
The experience showcases the area’s abundant wildlife, including dolphins, pelicans, and a variety of birds like the yellow-beaked least tern and puffin-like black skimmer.
The spacious outside deck and comfortable cockpit provide unobstructed views. The cruise includes the sailing, captain, live commentary, and bottled water, with guests free to bring their own beer or wine.
However, the activity isn’t suitable for those with heart problems, pregnant women, or wheelchair users. Participants should detail any specific requests to customize the experience.
Read our full review: Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Private Sailboat Cruise Review
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The Sum Up
Wrightsville Beach offers a variety of sailboat cruises that allow visitors to soak in stunning coastal views. Whether seeking an afternoon or sunset sail, there’s a cruise to suit every schedule. For a more personalized experience, a private sailboat charter is also available. With multiple options to choose from, visitors can easily find the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of Wrightsville Beach from the water.