Getting out on the water at Wrightsville Beach is straightforward and rewarding. The standout sailing options include intimate 2-hour cruises on a classic 42-foot yawl, led by a seasoned captain who knows these waters like the back of his hand.
Naturalists will appreciate spotting local birds like least terns and black skimmers.
I especially love the sunset cruises – they’re perfectly timed at 2 hours and showcase the area’s most scenic waterways.
For more flexibility, the private 2.5-hour tours of the Intracoastal Waterway and offshore waters offer the best mix of comfort and customization.
Let’s explore the top-rated sailing tours in Wrightsville Beach.
Key Points
- Experience a classic 2-hour sailboat cruise on a 42-foot Sparkman and Stephens yawl with a captain who has over 30 years of expertise.
- Enjoy a serene 2-hour sunset sailboat cruise and spot local wildlife like least tern and black skimmer.
- Customize a 2.5-hour private sailboat cruise for up to 6 participants and explore the Intracoastal Waterway and offshore waters.
- Relax on the spacious outside deck and in the comfortable cockpit area of the private sailboat cruise, with complimentary drinks.
- Receive live commentary on marine life and ecology during the private sailboat cruise to enhance your understanding of the local environment.
Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Afternoon Sailboat Cruise
The Wrightsville Beach afternoon sailboat cruise in Wilmington presents a delightful opportunity for visitors to experience the coastal charm of the region.
This 2-hour excursion aboard a classic 42-foot Sparkman and Stephens sailing yawl offers an intimate experience, with a small group limited to just 6 participants. Guided by an experienced captain with over 30 years of sailing expertise, the cruise provides engaging commentary on the local ecology and marine life, including the chance to spot rare birds like the least tern and black skimmer.
Participants can relax on the spacious deck or in the cozy interior lounge, while enjoying complimentary bottled water. The cruise departs from the Trails End Access Ramp, with the captain escorting guests to the vessel.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable and personable captain, and the overall experience is rated 5/5. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this sailboat cruise is a must-try for those seeking a memorable day on the water in Wrightsville Beach.
Read our full review: Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Afternoon Sailboat Cruise Review
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Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Sunset Sailboat Cruise
Wrightsville Beach’s serene waterways and picturesque sunsets make the sunset sailboat cruise a must-try experience. Lasting 2 hours, this cruise allows visitors to sail through the barrier islands protecting the beach from the Atlantic, with the opportunity to spot local wildlife like the least tern and black skimmer.
Priced at $108.03 per person, the small-group cruise (limited to 6 participants) is led by an English-speaking captain with over 30 years of sailing experience. Guests can relax on the spacious deck or in the comfortable interior lounge, while enjoying complimentary bottled water.
The cruise includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Reviewers praise the captain’s friendliness and knowledge, as well as the well-maintained sailboat and beautiful sunset views.
Some suggest booking later sail times to avoid the heat during peak hours. This sunset cruise offers a peaceful and memorable way to experience Wrightsville Beach.
Read our full review: Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Sunset Sailboat Cruise Review
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Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Private Sailboat Cruise
For a truly memorable experience, visitors can embark on a private sailboat cruise along the serene waterways of Wrightsville Beach.
The 2.5-hour tour, priced at $852.84 for groups of up to 6 participants, allows guests to explore the Intracoastal Waterway and witness the local marine life, including dolphins and coastal birds.
The cruise departs from 613 Trails End Rd, where the captain will greet participants and escort them to the vessel.
Onboard, guests can enjoy the spacious outside deck and comfortable cockpit area, as well as complimentary bottled water and ginger ale.
The captain provides live commentary about the sea conditions and coastal ecology, enhancing the educational aspect of the experience.
Participants can customize the itinerary, choosing to sail offshore or explore the Intracoastal Waterway.
The tour offers the flexibility of a reserve now and pay later option, and a full refund is available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Wilmington: Wrightsville Beach Private Sailboat Cruise Review
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The Sum Up
Wrightsville Beach offers a variety of sailing experiences, from afternoon cruises to private charters. These outings provide a chance to enjoy the coastal scenery and relax on the water. Whether you opt for a daytime sail or a sunset cruise, you’re sure to have a memorable time taking in the views and exploring the beautiful Wrightsville Beach area.