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.

This cruise is 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 covers the history and workings of the Cape Fear River and our historic downtown waterfront, with close-up views of the Battleship NC. Enjoy 360° views of unspoiled nature and wildlife while our captain shares stories about the river and our historic town.

Even hours – North: Cruise past Historic Downtown and Eagles Island. Capture unique views of the Battleship, learn about the rice plantations, and see shipwrecks, flora, and fauna.

Odd hours – South: Head under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge to the State Ports, where container ships over 1,200 feet long, some of the largest in the world, call regularly. Learn about Wilmington’s WWII shipyard and today’s working port, and keep an eye out for tugboats and the occasional container ships along the way.

Our enclosed catamaran has a restroom and a full cash bar, including snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks for all ages. You’re welcome to bring your own snacks (outside drinks not permitted). Check in and boarding begins 15 minutes before departure.

Can’t choose? Stay aboard for both routes for $44. Just let the office or first mate know.

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.

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.

 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.