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Answer: We strongly recommend reservations in advance, especially for popular tours such as the Sunset Cruise with Live Music and weekend Eco tours on the Cape Fear River. You can book your Wilmington boat tour directly through our website in just a few clicks or you can contact us by phone (910) 338-3134 or email at [email protected]. In-person check in is at our shop located on the river walk between the foot of Orange Street and Ann Street. Reservations are confirmed when payment is received in full. In the event of such a cancellation, all fees are 100% refundable. Walk ups are welcome when space allows but availability is not guaranteed during busy times.
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Answer: We accept all major credit cards through our secure online booking system and cash. We require full payment at the time of booking to secure your reservation. If you are planning a private charter or group event, contact us for additional payment options. For private charters, deposit options may be available depending on the event.
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Answer: Our tour boat, The Wilmington is located at 212 S. Water Street in downtown Wilmington, North Carolina. We depart from our dock at this location on the Riverwalk. You can find our boat and our storefront between Orange and Ann streets on the Cape Fear Riverwalk between Elijah’s and River 128 Restaurants. Look for our storefront with a kiosk, pirate and postcards.
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Answer: Yes, there are several public parking options near the Riverwalk in downtown Wilmington a short walk from our boat tour departure point. There is a Public Parking Deck on Market Street between 2nd and Front Streets and private/paid surface lots are located behind River 128 Restaurant and next to the Chandler’s Wharf Building on Water Street between Dock & Ann Streets. Also there is a private/paid surface lot on Second and Orange Streets next to the Hannah Block Center. Metered street parking is free after 6:30 pm and free on Sunday. Do not park in restricted spaces, you will be ticketed.
We recommend arriving 15-20 minutes before your scheduled departure time. We like to start on time and boarding is 15 minutes prior to departure time.
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We are a local, family-owned business dedicated to sharing the beauty and history of Wilmington from the water. We have been on the Cape Fear River offering tours for 17 years and have received the Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice Award for 15 years. Our captains are coast guard certified and enjoy sharing their knowledge of the Cape Fear River and surroundings while you enjoy scenic views and a relaxed atmosphere–making every cruise a memorable experience. Our tour offerings range from Eco cruises of the river to Wilmington History cruises to Wilmington Film cruises. In addition, we offer wine tasting cruises and birding cruises. Each tour highlights the scenic beauty and rich history of the Cape Fear River.
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Answer: We suggest you bring your camera to capture views of the Cape Fear River and local wildlife. Bring any special needs that you may require such as sunscreen and sunglasses. For the sunset cruise, depending on the time of year, a light jacket is a good idea and comfy shoes!
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Answer: We are fully enclosed and rain does not normally prevent departure. Safety is our top priority so we closely monitor weather conditions. It is at the discretion of the Captain to cancel based on weather conditions. If your Wilmington boat tour needs to be canceled due to weather, we will work with you to find the best alternative such as reschedule or a refund.
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Answer: Yes. We have a restroom available on board and it is handicap accessible.
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Answer: We understand plans can change, so we offer flexible cancellation options within a specified timeframe. Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation (910) 338-3134. No-shows will be charged the full price.
For private charters, cancellation must be 2 weeks prior to scheduled cruise.
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Answer: Yes, we are pet friendly. The captain would just need to make sure the other passengers are okay with your pet coming along for the cruise.
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Answer: No, we do not allow strollers, but we can keep them in the shop while you cruise.
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Answer: Yes, we allow single wide, non motorized wheelchairs and we are handicap accessible with some restrictions
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Answer: We offer a full bar with snacks and beverages for all ages. You may bring your own snacks if you wish. Sorry, no coolers allowed.
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Answer: Yes. We offer a variety of private charters for corporate events, pre- and post- wedding parties, birthdays and group outings. We will work with you to customize your time on the water and create a memorable experience with options such as catering and music. Please call Diane Upton for more information & pricing 910-632-4095.
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Answer: No, sorry, the captain cannot perform marriage ceremonies on the boat.
