Boat Cruises in Wilmington, NC
on the Cape Fear River

Looking for a fun way to end your fun day in Wilmington? Look no further! Come aboard The “Wilmington”, our comfortable 49 passenger motor catamaran, for a Sunset Cruise on the Cape Fear River. Our full bar offers refreshments and snacks for all ages.

The perfect blend of education and relaxation—ideal for locals wanting a fresh perspective or visitors looking to soak up Wilmington’s soul. This scenic 50 minute narrated cruise is very informative about the history and workings of the Cape Fear River and our historic waterfront in downtown Wilmington with close up views of the Battleship. Enjoy 360 degree views of unspoiled nature and a variety of wildlife daily while our Captain will delight you with anecdotes about the Cape Fear River and our historic town.

Choose between two different routes, each offering a unique perspective on Wilmington’s history and ecology. Bring your camera along; there are photo ops in every direction.

On the even hours we cruise north along the Historic Downtown and Eagles Island where you see the past come alive. Capture unique views of the Battleship, learn about rice plantations and view shipwrecks, flora and fauna on this 50 minute adventure.

On the odd hours we head south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge to the State Ports and learn some maritime history of a WWII Wilmington shipyard along with current facts while watching tug boats, container ships and pleasure boats.

A full cash bar with snacks and refreshments for all ages is available onboard. You can also bring your own snacks if you wish (please, no drinks).

And, if 50 minutes isn’t enough and you want to stay onboard for the next cruise you can do both directions for $44. Just let the office or first mate know and they will hook you up with a ticket.

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.

Unwind with a scenic cruise aboard The Wilmington, our comfortable, fully enclosed 49-passenger catamaran, offering panoramic views of the Cape Fear River and surrounding landscapes. This leisurely evening cruise glides past Wilmington’s vibrant downtown waterfront and along the serene edges of Eagles Island, offering a front-row seat to a breathtaking sunset. Sip on a handcrafted cocktail or your favorite drink from our full-service bar while enjoying a laid-back soundtrack curated by the captain. As day turns to night, watch the river glow with the final golden light, then take in the charm of  the Wilmington riverfront lit up after dark. A perfect outing for couples, groups and anyone looking to end the day in a beautiful way.

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.

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.

 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.

The Wilmington is available for private charters, wedding receptions, dinner cruises, corporate functions, planning committees, birthdays, family reunions, church groups, and tour groups.