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Wilmington Water Tours

Cape Fear River Tours Departing from Historic Downtown Wilmington, NC

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Daily River Cruises, Private Charters & Specialty Events
Locally Owned & Operated Since 2010

Birding Cruise led by Jill Peleuses of Wild Bird & Garden October 30 From $40

 Join Wilmington Water Tours and Jill Peleuses from Wild Bird & Garden, for a peaceful morning birding excursion on the Cape Fear River. As we cruise down the river we will point out the birds we see and discuss their habitats and habits. The Cape Fear area is a perfect spot for our feathered friends. This birding trip will give you a look at the birds that make the Cape Fear River their home. Along with the expertise of Jill Peleuses, we have three bird guides and binoculars aboard to help you spot and identify the bird species on this one-of-a-kind Cape Fear River tour!

Whether you’re a novice or a long-time nature lover, you are sure to appreciate the birdlife our area has to offer.  Get out on the Cape Fear River with Wilmington Water Tours for this Specialty Cruise. Bring your camera to capture nature at its finest.

This is a 90 min. cruise from 10am to 11:30am, $40. Boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure.

A Colonial Apparition on the Cape Fear From $40.00

October 30 –  6 PM
December 5 – 1:30 pm and 3:30 pm

This is one of Wilmington’s most authentic ghost stories that takes place on the Cape Fear River during the Revolutionary War era.  The story takes place aboard the Steamer Wilmington and draws from an encounter with the ghosts of two Scottish Highlanders with ties to the Revolutionary war. The story was written in 1898 by James Sprunt. Don’t miss this holiday event like no other. Wilmington Water Tours and Hunter Ingram with the Burgwin-Wright House have partnered to offer a river cruise based on this story.

Holiday Lights River Cruise – Select Dates November & December
  • Our Holiday Lights Cruise is very popular!!
From $30

Friday, Saturday & Sunday November 27 through December 30 and again Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday December 21-23, 26-30 at 5:30 and 7:00 PM

In conjunction with the “Holidays On Water” events in downtown Wilmington, we are proud to present our Holiday Lights River Cruise!

Step aboard Wilmington Water Tours for a festive evening on the Cape Fear River where your historic Wilmington Riverfront Cruise glows with holiday lights, seasonal music, festive drinks at our cash bar and complimentary sweet treats.  Enjoy views of the illuminated riverfront from our 46-foot enclosed catamaran, The Wilmington, while local musicians perform holiday favorites. Bring your family and friends for this special seasonal cruise, offered on select evenings in November and December. Starting Friday, November 27 and through December 30 at 5:30 pm and 7:00 pm. A full cash bar with refreshments for all ages is available. Book early–this popular cruise often sells out.

Included in this one-hour cruise are complimentary sweet treats, local live music and festival cocktails and hot chocolate purchased from the bar.