Available languages
1 hour
Mobile ticket
Enjoy a relaxing ride on the river on our comfortable 46' catamaran as you learn more about Wilmington, NC from our friendly captain and crew. Gain a new perspective on our history and ecology as we share fun facts and historical anecdotes as we cruise along the Cape Fear River. We promise that no two cruises are alike!
If you would like a private charter or one of our other cruises, please give us a call.
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
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Battleship North Carolina
If you book 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.
Cape Fear River
If you book on the odd hour, we head south under the Cape Fear Memorial Bridge to the State Ports and learn the history of a WWII Wilmington shipyard along with current facts while watching tug boats, container ships, and pleasure boats. Bring your camera along; there are photo ops in every direction!
Restroom on board
Gratuities
262 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Expedition681329,May 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Very informative with friendly staff
Kelsey B,Apr 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
This was a very relaxing and enjoyable day! They know their history of the area and answered any questions we had. 10/10 recommend!!!
manago1,Apr 19, 2026
- Review from Viator
It's quick tour but informative staff was nice would definitely like to try thier other theme cruises.
Dustin W,Apr 18, 2026
- Review from Viator
So relaxing and the crew were so friendly. Wonderful experience. The drinks at the bar were cheap and delicious. Biggest perk to me is that they allow your dogs to come in the ride.
lclct,Apr 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
A very relaxing and informative tour on Wilmington Water Tours' 50-minute cruise. We went on the 4:00pm cruise and the weather was perfect. Learned much about the natural history of the river and the history of early Wilmington. I recommend booking this cruise when in Wilmington--especially as an introduction to the area.
Relax16288211300,Apr 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great experience! Had a wonderful time. Learned a lot about the cape fear river and the area.
Nancy R,Apr 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Fantastic crew! Captain Mike was very conscious of other boats and entertained us with dance moves! Owen was very knowledgeable and we loved the history lesson!





DAS S,Apr 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
Took my elderly mother out on the water. It was a last minute trip; spontaneous in fact. She suffers from dementia, however the calm and the ease of the boat trip was very soothing for her. This was my second trip with this vessel, and it tears to my eyes to see my mom thoroughly enjoying herself, the breeze and the warmth of the day. Thank you.
Krista S,Apr 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
It was very interesting but wish it was it had lasted longer and covered more history. The crew were very good!
Noelle W,Apr 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
So nice and thorough! Very friendly as well. Everyone spoke nicely and explained everything well and there’s an area to get drinks from if you’d like a drink. We were respected well and if it was cold they’d make adjustments for you as well.

Operated by Wilmington Water Tours