Speciality Cruises

This morning, hour and three quarters long cruise goes up the Northeast Cape Fear River to the upper reaches of the black water system of this storied river. Captain Doug Springer will share his extensive knowledge of the history of the area while you take in the flora and fauna along the river banks. We will cruise through the Castle Hayne Aquifer and by the bluffs of the Rose Hill Plantation. Visit our full bar for a freshly brewed cup of coffee or the best Bloody Mary on the river.

This is a great cruise for photographers, birders and nature buffs. Bring your camera to capture the untouched beauty of this early morning adventure.

Whether you’re a lifelong history buff or just curious about the forces that shaped this region, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn while enjoying a relaxing, scenic cruise. Topics rotate monthly, so every trip offers a new perspective on Wilmington’s place in American history.

Our October 25 cruise will cover Cape Fear History Mysteries

During the spooky season, join Dr. Chris E. Fonvielle Jr., Professor Emeritus in the Dept. of History at UNCW, as he reveals some of the Lower Cape Fear’s strange, supernatural tales. Was Samuel Russell Jocelyn Jr. really buried alive in the graveyard at St. James Church after a horseback riding accident in 1810? Was the inexplicable glowing orb known as the Maco Light seen by thousands of people, including Dr. Fonvielle, for at least 100 years really the ghost of Joe Baldwin, a railroad conductor killed in a terrible train wreck, looking for his decapitated head? Is Thalian Hall really haunted by the spirits of actors and actresses who performed there in the past?

Our boat, the “Wilmington” is a 49 passenger enclosed motor catamaran with comfortable seating and a restroom on board. Our full cash bar has refreshments and snacks for all ages. This is an hour and 45 minutes long cruise, $45, children $25. Boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure.

Birding cruise October 30 

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.

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

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.