Wrightsville Beach, NC, is more than just a small beach town; it’s the perfect coastal getaway for visitors who want a fun vacation filled with great experiences. With crystal-clear channels, barrier islands, and endless Atlantic views, this slice of the North Carolina coast offers so much to discover.
Hop aboard a group tour or private boat charter and sail past the perfect backdrop of coastal bliss. Whether you’re planning a relaxing day with friends, a family adventure, or a romantic sunset cruise, Wrightsville Beach has a fleet of options for every type of traveler.
If you’re unsure where to begin, we’ll guide you through your visit to Wrightsville Beach and the process of chartering a boat.
Boating in Wrightsville Beach
From luxury yachts to casual pontoon boats, Wrightsville Beach is home to a variety of boating companies ready to help you make the most of your day. Many local boat charters offer experienced captains who are familiar with the waterways, so that you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Popular providers often offer packages for half-day, full-day, or custom excursions, so you can choose an itinerary that matches your pace.
Regardless of whether you’re in town for the weekend and want to incorporate a boat into your plans, or staying for the week and hoping for multiple days on the water, there will be a boat company, pricing, and offerings to match.
Some companies even provide additional perks, such as paddleboards, snorkel gear, or catered food on board. Booking ahead is always recommended, especially during the busy summer months when demand is high.
Group Boat Tours
Some boat experiences tend to cater toward the general public more than they do private parties. In these instances, you can book tickets for each member of your group, save some money compared to a private boat charter, and perhaps even make some new vacation friends.
Here are two of our favorite types of boat tours that showcase Wrightsville Beach and its beautiful surroundings.
Nature Tours
If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a nature tour is a must-do. The waterways around Wrightsville Beach are teeming with marine creatures to observe, including playful dolphins, elegant herons, and schools of fish darting beneath the surface. Some tours are led by naturalists who share fascinating insights about the local ecosystem, from the salt marshes to the barrier islands.
You might cruise past osprey nests, watch pelicans dive for their dinner, or even spot sea turtles during nesting season. These trips are perfect for families, photographers, and anyone who wants to connect with the natural side of coastal North Carolina.
Check out the Cape Fear Riverboats Black River Nature Sightseeing Cruise for a more uniquely inland experience.
Sunset Cruises
There’s nothing quite like watching the sun sink into the horizon while you’re out on the water. Many Wrightsville Beach charters offer sunset cruises designed to deliver that perfect golden-hour experience. These trips typically last one to two hours and may include champagne toasts, light snacks, or even live music on certain vessels.
The scenery is stunning, with views of the Intracoastal Waterway, the surrounding marshlands, and the Atlantic Ocean painted in warm, glowing hues. Sunset cruises are a favorite for couples, photographers, and anyone looking to end their day on the water with a touch of magic.
A plus? You get to hang at the beach all day and do any of the activities you may want to without planning your day around a boat charter. Talk about maximizing vacation time!
We love the sunset cruise by Wrightsville Beach Scenic Tours.
Private Boat Days
Of course, you can easily book a private boat, as well.
Companies like Carolina Runner Boat Tours offer both public and private bookings, so that guests can pick what fits best for their group size, budget, and plans.
Sometimes, with multiple kids or larger groups like bachelorette parties, a private charter simply makes more sense. Why pay for each ticket when you can rent a boat, split the fee, and ultimately pay less for a more personalized day on the Atlantic?
Just contact the company for a quote if you are planning on hosting a private boat day, and they will help you navigate everything from whether you want the deck to be covered to if there will be enough room for everyone in your group.
Head to Masonboro Island
One of the most popular destinations for boaters in Wrightsville Beach is Masonboro Island, a pristine and undeveloped barrier island accessible only by boat. Known for its untouched beaches, vibrant tide pools, and abundant wildlife, Masonboro is a dream spot for anyone seeking a natural escape.
A boat charter to Masonboro often includes time to explore the island on foot, collect shells, or enjoy a picnic along the shoreline. Since there are no facilities on the island, it’s important to bring everything you need for the day… and take it back with you to help preserve the island’s beauty.
Epic Excursions has some semi-private boat tours that come here, with a limit of 12 guests allowed onboard.
Yacht Charters
Of course, if you’re looking to go all out and have the budget to match, Airlie Point Yacht Charters is one of Wrightsville Beach’s premier luxury options. These private yacht experiences offer the ultimate way to explore the coast with spacious decks, comfortable cabins, and first-class amenities.
With this type of private charter, you can customize your itinerary to fit your dream trip. Spend the day cruising the Intracoastal Waterway, anchor off Masonboro Island for a swim, or venture farther for a multi-day excursion to destinations like Bald Head Island, Beaufort, or even Charleston. Overnight charters provide cozy accommodations onboard, so you can wake up to a sunrise over the Atlantic.
Many yacht charters include a professional crew, gourmet catering, and plenty of extras like paddleboards, fishing gear, or snorkeling equipment. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, hosting a corporate event, or just indulging in a luxury getaway, a Wrightsville Beach yacht charter offers a level of comfort and privacy you won’t find anywhere else.
See You Soon!
Regardless of which boat trip you decide to embark on during your vacation to Wrightsville Beach, or if you’re a local just looking to switch it up and explore more of our gorgeous slice of the coast, we know you’ll make plenty of new memories.
Don’t forget that we’re always here to help, especially during the WB beach days when you can’t seem to get everything to the sand by yourself. Download our app and keep us in mind for next time you need a hand!