Black Water Adventure Cruise

Overview

Available languages

English

1 hour 45 minutes

Mobile ticket

Start your day on the water in search of wildlife and many of our feathered friends while listening to interesting commentary about the rich history of this area. This close to two-hour cruise is a rewarding experience as you learn about Wilmington & our precious wildlife while enjoying a peaceful morning ride on our safe and relaxing catamaran. Visit our full bar for a freshly brewed cup of coffee or for the best Bloody Mary on the river.

The Northeast Cape Fear River is still largely unpopulated and looks much as it did when Wilmington was colonized in the late 1600s. We cruise through the Castle Hayne Aquifer and by the bluffs of the Rose Hill Plantation.

Photographers, birders, and nature buffs love the variety of wildlife and native plants that adorn the river banks. Your time with us presents you with the opportunity to see osprey, alligators, sea turtles, and river otters, just to name a few.

Additional Info

Wheelchair accessible

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What‘s Included

Restroom on board

Alcoholic Beverages

Gratuities

What To Expect

Cape Fear River

Admission Not Applicable

Options

Black Water Adventure Cruise

Reviews

4.94

17 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Perfect way to spend a morning
williamsb3,
Sep 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Ten of us local ladies had a wonderful birthday cruise. We all enjoyed the majestic river. Capt. Doug's historical and ecological knowledge of this area are amazing.
Black Water...trully an adventure!
Departure22028977868,
Jun 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We wanted to really get to know the Northeast Cape Fear River, one of the "black" rivers in Southeast North Carolina. We definitely made the right choice when we decided on Wilmington Water Tours! The captain and crew were very knowledgeable about the river and the birds we saw while cruising. They also gave us a short but informative safty talk about what to do in case of emergency while on board. The boat also had refreshments for purchase and a spacious bathroom as well. We will definitely try a couple more of their cruises on our next trip to downtown Wilmington!
A great morning out on the river!
289margie,
Jun 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This is a great tour for nature lovers or anyone who hasn't been out on the Northeast Cape Fear River to see the history, nature and beauty of our river. Great staff, great bartender. They also do other tours for sunset and full moon, check them out. Great for friends and family.
Lovely Sunset Cruise
barbaravU5372MW,
Aug 18, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We had a lovely sunset cruise with family. The crew were very welcoming and we enjoyed the music! We would definitely recommend.
Beautiful
NCtoBI,
Jun 25, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
My sister and I took the 7:30 pm sunset tour with live music. It was beautiful, and the artist's singing was fantastic. He sounded just like Michael Bublé. It was a relaxing and fun cruise. The rum punch was a plus!
Great trip overall.
Freedom668319,
May 5, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Very informative tour of Cape Fear and Black Rivers ecosystems . Also discussions of early explorers arriving in Wilmington via the Cape Fear River.
Touring the Cape Fear River by water
kathyjA6081XU,
Oct 4, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
A wonderful, informative cruise on the Cape Fear River. The captain is very knowledgeable about the area, the history and the ecology. We will definitely go again.
9/30/23
Wander48446196780,
Oct 3, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00
Absolutely Loved the Captain and the History, but absolutely No wildlife , not his fault or anyone else’s though .Seating was sketchy 🤷‍♀️
Yes! Tour the Cape Fear River
misterb766,
Sep 3, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Bar and bathroom on board made for a relaxing tour. Very friendly crew Capt. Doug shared his years of experience on the river with a great glimpse into the history of the area’s development and the changing environment. We were lucky to have a mild sunny day. Would recommend this tour.
Perfect for a family outing!
sarahmO8548IG,
Jul 30, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
This cruise was such a great family outing! We went as a group of 5, ages 20 months to 65 years old and everyone loved it. The history of the area is fascinating and the natural beauty was awe-inspiring. Highly recommend!