Custom Boating Charters in Wilmington, NC: Masonboro Island & Intracoastal Adventures
Pilot your own day on the water or hire a local captain to guide you through Masonboro Island and the Intracoastal Waterway. Private charters for up to six blend wildlife watching, swimming, and sunset cruises with eco-aware local knowledge.
The Experience
Before You Go
Dress for sun and spray
Bring a wide-brim hat, polarized sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen to protect against reflected sun off the water.
Bring a small cooler or BYO snacks
Charters often allow BYOB—pack a labeled cooler and biodegradable trash bags to take waste back with you.
Watch for shallow sandbars
If you plan to swim or anchor near Masonboro Island, follow the captain’s guidance—sandbars shift and can be shallow at low tide.
Plan around tides and timing
Wildlife viewing and calmer waters often occur near slack tide; sunsets are busiest—book ahead for evening cruises.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Low-tide sandbars off Masonboro Island for shallow wading and shelling
- •Quiet channels on the inland side of the barrier islands where shorebirds concentrate at dawn
Wildlife
- •Bottlenose dolphin
- •Loggerhead sea turtle
Conservation Note
Masonboro Island is protected and sensitive to disturbance—operators often brief guests on staying off nesting areas, packing out waste, and minimizing noise to protect wildlife.
Wilmington’s port grew in the 18th–19th centuries as a regional trade hub; the Intracoastal Waterway later connected these channels for commerce and recreation.
What to Bring
Sunscreen (reef-safe SPF 30+)Essential
Protects against intense coastal sun and reflected glare from the water.
Polarized sunglassesEssential
Reduces glare for better visibility of wildlife and underwater structure.
Water shoes or sandals with grip
Useful if you plan to step onto sandbars or rocky shorelines.
Light waterproof windbreaker
Blocks wind and sea spray for cooler evenings or breezy days.
Common Questions
Are charters private or shared?
These charters are private for your group (up to six people), so the boat and guide are reserved exclusively for you.
Can we bring food and alcohol?
Most operators allow BYOB and snacks; confirm specifics when booking and pack out all trash—some stops may prohibit alcohol for conservation reasons.
Is the trip wheelchair accessible?
Many launch points and boats accommodate mobility needs; check with the operator ahead of time to confirm access and boarding assistance.
What wildlife can we expect to see?
Common sightings include bottlenose dolphins, shorebirds, and occasionally sea turtles and local fish schools—sightings depend on season and tides.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Wilmington, North Carolina
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—ability to step on/off a small boat and move on an unsteady deck is required
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