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North Carolina Boat Tours

The best out of 88 boat tours in North Carolina - enter dates to check availability

North Carolina Boat Tours

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Top Boat Tours in North Carolina

North Carolina: 88 boats available

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Listing image
22 ft
Up to 6 people
Seaside Charter Co. Island Excursions Topsail
5.0
/5
(18 reviews)
Surf City
Discover the beauty and charm of Topsail Island and Wrightsville Beach with a private charter from Seaside Charter Company.

"We charted Captain Jake’s boat for four hours at surf city." —⁠ Elaine,
+6
trips from
US $275
Listing image
21 ft
Up to 4 people
Live-N-Good Charters
New
5.0
/5
(3 reviews)
Wilmington
Live-N-Good Charters is a 2012 Kencraft Bayrider Skiff based in Wilmington, offering personalized adventures for up to four guests.

"Chartered a boat for a day trip to Masonboro Island to collect seashells." —⁠ Brian, North Carolina
+2
trips from
US $250
Listing image
24 ft
Up to 6 people
Muddy Creek Adventures
5.0
/5
(48 reviews)
Manteo
Muddy Creek Adventures offers an unforgettable experience aboard a 2011 Carolina 24 DLX Skiff, departing from the scenic town of Manteo.

"At first, I felt I was taking a risk using that site and I was going to get scammed, but I am so happy I was wrong!" —⁠ Julia,
+2
trips from
US $225
Listing image
30 ft
Up to 6 people
Catch And Cruise NC - World Cat
5.0
/5
(16 reviews)
Wilmington
Catch And Cruise NC invites you aboard their sleek 2004 World Cat 27 HT Catamaran—fully restored in 2019 and ready to deliver unforgettable moments on the water! Departing from scenic Wilmington, this stable and spacious vessel comfortably accommoda

"We went as a family of 6, one of them being my very curious autistic 7 year old who had a great time." —⁠ Naftali,
+1
trips from
US $475
Listing image
26 ft
Up to 6 people
Leverdrag charters
5.0
/5
(12 reviews)
Wilmington
Escape with Captain Joe Currie! 🍹 Looking for the perfect getaway on the water? Join us for 2hr cruises aboard Leverdrag Charters, a 2008 Seafox 256 Center Console, based in Wilmington, NC.

"What an amazing boat cruise! Captain Joe made the whole experience very memorable." —⁠ Jason,
trips from
US $250
Listing image
22 ft
Up to 6 people
Seaside Charter Company Island Excursions WB
5.0
/5
(10 reviews)
Wrightsville Beach
Experience the best of coastal North Carolina with a private charter at Wrightsville Beach with Seaside Charter Company.

"Captain Jake was so easy to work with! Our girls trip group wanted to see great shells and the smaller islands around Wrightsville Beach." —⁠ Virginia,
+7
trips from
US $275
Listing image
24 ft
Up to 6 people
Oyster Farm Tours – Savage Inlet Oyster Co
5.0
/5
(11 reviews)
Nags Head
Oyster Farm Tours – Savage Inlet Oyster Co is a 2025 Custom CC Center Console based in Nags Head, accommodating up to six guests.

"Bobby was very knowledgeable and a great tour guide. I strongly recommend this tour." —⁠ Holly,
trips from
US $150
Listing image
22 ft
Up to 6 people
Above C Level Adventures
5.0
/5
(6 reviews)
Wanchese
Above C Level Adventures is a 22' Key West Bay Boat Center Console, expertly captained by Clay McPherson, offering a perfect escape for up to six guests.

"Clay was the best captain ever. Fun, friendly, and knowledgeable." —⁠ Christopher,
+2
trips from
US $150
Listing image
21 ft
Up to 6 people
Flyin Tide Charters
5.0
/5
(1 review)
35 external reviews
Morehead City
Discover the untouched beauty of North Carolina’s Crystal Coast on a relaxing, guided eco tour departing from Morehead City.

"it was a nicelittle trip. my daighter teally had a great time as well." —⁠ Yocolano,
+1
trips from
US $225
Listing image
25 ft
Up to 6 people
Seascape Charters
5.0
/5
(20 reviews)
Wilmington
Make unforgettable memories with SeaScape Charters and Capt. Josh! Whether you're planning a family outing, romantic escape, or a fun cruise with friends, your private boat tour from Wrightsville Beach is sure to impress.

"What an incredible way to celebrate a 40th birthday! 🥳☀️🛥️ Captain Josh gave us the perfect day on the water!" —⁠ Ashley,
+3
trips from
US $250

Frequently Asked Questions about Boat Tours in North Carolina

According to customer reviews, some of the most popular boat tours in North Carolina are:
Full list of top boat tours in North Carolina
According to customer reviews, some of the most popular boat tours in North Carolina are:
Full list of top boat tours in North Carolina
The average price for a private 4 hour North Carolina boat trip is US $420, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $802 based on prices on BoatBooker.com.
The average price for a private 4 hour North Carolina boat trip is US $420, while an 8 hour private trip will cost you US $802 based on prices on BoatBooker.com.
The top 5 boating-related activities in North Carolina are:
The top 5 boating-related activities in North Carolina are:
The top 5 most popular boat types you can rent in North Carolina, by number of boats available are:
The top 5 most popular boat types you can rent in North Carolina, by number of boats available are:
The top 5 most popular boat categories you can rent in North Carolina, by number of boats available are:
The top 5 most popular boat categories you can rent in North Carolina, by number of boats available are:
According to customer reviews on BoatBooker.com, some of the best rated boat tours in North Carolina are:
According to customer reviews on BoatBooker.com, some of the best rated boat tours in North Carolina are:
The average price of boat tours in North Carolina is:
  • 1-hour boating trips – US $100
  • 2-hour boating trips – US $295
  • 3-hour boating trips – US $345
  • 4-hour boating trips – US $496
  • 6-hour boating trips – US $692
  • 8-hour boating trips – US $883
The average price of boat tours in North Carolina is:
  • 1-hour boating trips – US $100
  • 2-hour boating trips – US $295
  • 3-hour boating trips – US $345
  • 4-hour boating trips – US $496
  • 6-hour boating trips – US $692
  • 8-hour boating trips – US $883
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Boating in North Carolina

Discover North Carolina Boating Charters and see why this coastal state is a favorite for on-the-water adventures. With miles of sandy barrier islands, sheltered sounds, and winding estuaries, North Carolina offers calm waters for families, scenic routes for sightseeing, and wide-open stretches for anglers and thrill‑seekers. From sunrise cruises along the Intracoastal Waterway to afternoon island hopping and golden‑hour wildlife watching, every outing promises postcard views and fresh sea breezes.

Choose from private captained excursions, flexible bareboat rentals, fishing charters, sailing trips, and guided eco‑tours. Skippers appreciate easy navigation through protected sounds and inlets, while paddlers and nature lovers enjoy quiet marsh creeks rich with birdlife and occasional dolphin encounters. Photographers will find endless backdrops—historic waterfronts, tall dunes, and classic coastal skylines—perfect for memorable moments on the water.

Whether you're planning a relaxed picnic at anchor, a family‑friendly shelling stop, or a full day chasing game fish, North Carolina boating charters make it simple to match your crew, vessel type, and itinerary. Seasonal conditions typically bring warm summers, crisp shoulder seasons, and reliable breezes, so you can tailor your trip for comfort and style. Launch near popular coastal towns, plot a custom route, and experience the state's maritime character from the best vantage point—the deck of your boat.

What people said about boating in North Carolina

  • 5.0
    /5
    (4 Hour – Sandbar Adventur - 11:00 AM)

    It was a great day!

    wear sunblock, pack water, towels. listen to your captain and their advice, they know what they are doing! let them guide you and youll have a great time!
    Naftali P.
    Naftali P.
    Reviewed on August 25, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (2 Hour – Sunset Dolphin Tour)

    beautiful sunset

    there are snacks and dronks available on ghe boat, so just relax and enjoy.
    Kelly M.
    Kelly M.
    Reviewed on August 19, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (3 Hour – Eco/Wild Horse Tour)

    Capt Josh was lovely and easy

    Go for the fishing and exploring the islands. Earlier in the day is better to avoid weather.
    Joy B.
    Joy B.
    Reviewed on August 6, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (Island Excursion Topsail - 12:00 PM)

    capt jake is the best!!

    definitely call and do a charter you will not be disappointed, especially if you use seaside charters with Captain Jake. He is very flexible with his times too.
    Elaine W.
    Elaine W.
    Reviewed on July 29, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (2hr soundside adventure midday)

    Highly recommend Muddy Creek Adventures!

    Yes, he is very safe and wants to make the trip a special memory for the group
    Jessica M.
    Jessica M.
    Reviewed on July 5, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (3 Hour – Dolphin Sandbar excursion)

    great family outing!

    just bring your food and drink- and whatever supplies or clothing you need. creme based sunscreen is preferred as the sprays can make the boat bottom slick
    Liz R.
    Liz R.
    Reviewed on July 3, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (2 Hr – Beach Boat Cruise)

    Great excursion

    Come see the captains at Big Kahuna Tiki! Updated review- it's the website that misled the description for the boating type, but these guys are great! 5/5 on all accounts!
    Jessica H.
    Jessica H.
    Reviewed on July 1, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (2 Hour – Dolphin Tour (3:00 PM))

    awesome experience

    get there early u get to board first to pick your seating. they have drinks and snacks to purchase. and when getting there look for signage we were unsure where we had to go at first and unsure where to park bit once we seen the signs we dound it.
    Christina W.
    Christina W.
    Reviewed on July 1, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (Island excursion Topsail)

    Boating with Jake

    Jake was our captain and was EXCELLENT! He was on time, super personable and safety conscience. His boat was immaculately clean. He explained everything we would encounter on our trip and was super sensitive to our needs. We had an awesome experience and I would highly recommend requesting Jake for your trip.
    Kim L.
    Kim L.
    Reviewed on June 26, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (Island Excursion Topsail)

    Best trip everr !!

    if you thinking about booking go for it its an amazing experience. make sure to book with jake R in topsail. hes a very kind and helpful man we had a great time with him . beaches are so clean and all locals/people are very kind everyone were very helpful. we had an amazing first boat ride experience we will be coming back
    Danna M.
    Danna M.
    Reviewed on June 19, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (Island Hopping Excursion WB)

    Great time with Captain Jake

    Book the longer trip. Theres so many exciting things to do and see that its hard to fit it in 4 hours.
    Sean C.
    Sean C.
    Reviewed on May 24, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (2 Hour – Waterway Evening Cruise)

    Jim is the best!

    Wear more sunscreen that you think. It was perfect weather, not too hot and we just saw the start of the sunset.
    Makenzie G.
    Makenzie G.
    Reviewed on May 16, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (3Hr – Dolphins, Wildlife, Shelling)

    Shark Teeth and Shelling Tour with Captain Seth

    Sandy islands and sandbars, marshes and wildlife. Swansboro boating is wonderful and adventurous!
    Nicholas F.
    Nicholas F.
    Reviewed on April 18, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (2 Hr Sunset Cruise)

    Fantastic

    Book a trip like this to learn the waters and find out where to go and not.
    Adam F.
    Adam F.
    Reviewed on April 1, 2026
  • 5.0
    /5
    (8 Hour – Sandbar Adventure)

    Great captain. Wonderful day.

    Bring a windbreaker. Although it’s not cold the wind can get to you once you’re a little damp from sea mist.
    Elizabeth G.
    Elizabeth G.
    Reviewed on October 28, 2025
  • 5.0
    /5
    (2 Hr – Soundside sunset adventure)

    Beautiful and Relaxing Sunset Charter

    It still feels like summer weather, the evening was still warm after the sun went down
    Connor B.
    Connor B.
    Reviewed on September 5, 2025
  • 5.0
    /5
    (1.5 Hour – Dolphin Watch Cruise)

    Best boat experience we had!

    Book with confidence! All boaters are friendly! This is what they do for a living. Bring sunscreen even if you don’t think you’ll need it!
    Ramiro S.
    Ramiro S.
    Reviewed on August 16, 2025
  • 5.0
    /5
    (2 Hour – Sunset / Dolphin Tour)

    Dolphin Sunset cruise

    Just keep in mind that you may not see dolphins and the sunset could be obscured by clouds. You can bring drinks and food aboard. You can even bring wine and beer on board.
    Claudia T.
    Claudia T.
    Reviewed on August 15, 2025
  • 5.0
    /5
    (1 Hour – Oyster Farm Tours)

    Perfect late afternoon

    It was a small boat but it was great because water in farm was not deep, and that helped my anxiety.
    Ann S.
    Ann S.
    Reviewed on July 30, 2025
  • 5.0
    /5
    (2 Hr – Soundside sunset adventure)

    Magical

    The Sound was so full of the sights and sounds of the shorebirds. Captain James taught us so much about the area. The sunset turned the water pink. It was amazing.
    Elizabeth W.
    Elizabeth W.
    Reviewed on July 26, 2025

How people rated boat trips in North Carolina

  • Seaside Charter Company Island Excursions WB
    Seaside Charter Company Island Excursions WB
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (Sunset cruise)

    Great Sunset Tour!

    Captain Jake was a gracious host. He made sure we had a chance to experience Wrightsville's best water locations. We enjoyed looking for sand dollars and finding shells on the beach. The sunset was a 10. The tour made our family vacation to the area complete!
    Melissa S.
    Melissa S.
    Reviewed on Sep 2, 2026
  • Breakwater Charters
    Breakwater Charters
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (3 Hour Trip – Carrot Island (PM))

    Great day out on the water

    Captian Ashley and Logan were great! Would highly reccomend this charter. They went above and beyond to make sure our kids had a great time!
    Christin W.
    Christin W.
    Reviewed on Sep 2, 2026
  • FoxSea Lady Charters
    FoxSea Lady Charters
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (2 Hour – Sunset Cruise)

    My family & I really enjoyed the Fox Sea Lady experience!!! The Captain & Crew were very kool! The sunset cruise was absolutely gorgeous. I highly recommend!!

    My family & I really enjoyed the Fox Sea Lady experience!! The Captin & Crew were very kool. The sunset cruise was absolutely gorgeous!! I highly recommend this excursion.
    April G.
    April G.
    Reviewed on Aug 30, 2026
  • Live-N-Good Charters
    Live-N-Good Charters
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (4 Hour – Island Trip)

    Day Trip Masonboro Island

    Chartered a boat for a day trip to Masonboro Island to collect seashells. Jake is an excellent host. He is friendly, very knowledgeable, knows the great locations and took us to several areas on the island, including some that can be difficult to navigate. An overall excellent experience. Fair rates and great service. HIGHLY recommend
    Brian M.
    Brian M.
    Reviewed on Aug 28, 2026
  • Harbor Star Dolphin Tours
    Harbor Star Dolphin Tours
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (2 Hour – Sunset Dolphin Tour)

    So incredible!!

    I went in fully expecting to see nothing, especially given how affordable this was to book. They gave us a really cool history lesson on the harbor where you get on the boat, which was very spacious and comfortable. When we went out into the sound we found a few dolphins pretty quickly! Somehow the captain ended up finding an entire pod of dolphins with a baby! The whole experience was so incredible and a great boat ride. Plus a perfect view of the sunset!!
    Sam M.
    Sam M.
    Reviewed on Aug 24, 2026
  • Reel Pirates Fishing Charters
    Reel Pirates Fishing Charters
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    4.3
    /5
    (4 Hour – Your Custom Adventure)

    Fun Time in the Sun

    Had a great relaxing trip with Captain Will. Knowledgeable about the area and coordinated what I wanted with the tide table.
    Kim C.
    Kim C.
    Reviewed on Aug 22, 2026
  • Harbor Star Dolphin Tours
    Harbor Star Dolphin Tours
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (2 Hour – Sunset Dolphin Tour)

    beautiful sunset

    we totally enjoyed our trip!!! the staff made sure that we saw dolphins. they shared lots of fun facts and information. and the cruise back to the dock while watching the sunset was awesome. the staff was especially good with the kids and families, offering to take pics and letting the little ones drive the boat.
    Kelly M.
    Kelly M.
    Reviewed on Aug 20, 2026
  • Harbor Star Dolphin Tours
    Harbor Star Dolphin Tours
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (2 Hour – Dolphin Tour (10 AM))

    Such a fun outing!!!

    We took our daughter and granddaughters out and we all had so much fun. The crew was extremely knowledgeable and were so grwat with the kids!! The kids even got to sit in the captain’s chair and drive the boat!! Would definitely recommend and we will definitely go again next time we cime to the outer banks!!!!
    Shelly H.
    Shelly H.
    Reviewed on Aug 19, 2026
  • Crystal Dawn Dolphin and Sunset Cruises
    Crystal Dawn Dolphin and Sunset Cruises
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (2 Hour – Private Sunset Cruise)

    Great family trip.!!!!

    The day was special! The boat was clean and well kept. The first mate was friendly and attentive. The Captain went out of his way to show my grandchildren a boating experience they will never forget. He was friendly and engaging. Great job!!! We all enjoyed the sunset!
    Michael C.
    Michael C.
    Reviewed on Aug 31, 2026
  • Muddy Creek Adventures
    Muddy Creek Adventures
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (2hr soundside adventure afternoon)

    Relaxing & enjoyable

    We went to learn about this area to help decide whether we want to bring our boat here. Captain James is very knowledgeable and gave us a great feel for this area,s waterways and history.
    Robyn H.
    Robyn H.
    Reviewed on Aug 13, 2026
  • Muddy Creek Adventures
    Muddy Creek Adventures
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (2hr soundside adventure morning)

    Great Trip!

    Our family of four had a great time on our trip. We saw numerous dolphins and several points of interest along the way. We would highly recommend James to friends and family!
    Ann L.
    Ann L.
    Reviewed on Aug 13, 2026
  • Crystal Dawn Dolphin and Sunset Cruises
    Crystal Dawn Dolphin and Sunset Cruises
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (1.5 Hour – Sunset Cruise)

    Amazing trip! The perfect addition to beach week!

    Captain and crew were super friendly and chill. Saw dolphins for about 10 minutes as a bonus. Beautiful sunset and relaxing. Plenty of seats and benches to be comfortable and see all sides. Highly recommend!
    Gregory C.
    Gregory C.
    Reviewed on Aug 15, 2026
  • Big Kahuna Tiki Charters
    Big Kahuna Tiki Charters
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (2 Hour Kids Inshore Fishing Charter - 12:00 PM)

    So much fun!!!

    Captain Freddy was so nice and truly great. We had the best time ever. everyone caught a fish. We even caught a double fish. Thank you for an amazing trip.
    Jennifer B.
    Jennifer B.
    Reviewed on Aug 13, 2026
  • Breakwater Charters
    Breakwater Charters
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    4.7
    /5
    (4 Hours – Shackleford Banks (PM))

    my children had never been in a boat and they had a great time!

    Captain Ash and Louden (not sure of the spelling) were great. We did some sightseeing and some fishing for Spanish Mackerel and we each caught a few. Great time had by all. When we visit the area again we will definitely go out with this crew!
    Rodney W.
    Rodney W.
    Reviewed on Aug 15, 2026
  • 18 Reeler Sportfishing
    18 Reeler Sportfishing
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    4.3
    /5
    (Special 12 hour trip for John A Plant)

    good trip

    very friendly and knowledgeable about the skills of fishing good people keep it high and tight.
    John A. P.
    John A. P.
    Reviewed on Aug 13, 2026
  • Muddy Creek Adventures
    Muddy Creek Adventures
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (2 Hr – Soundside sunset adventure)

    Highlight of Our Trip

    This was easily the most fun we had during our trip. James was awesome, easy to talk to, knowledgeable of the area, and super informative. He had a plan for the evening and it just seemed like the 2 hours flew by. I would highly recommend this trip with James to anyone visiting OBX!! Cant wait to come back and do it again!
    Dexter E.
    Dexter E.
    Reviewed on Aug 12, 2026
  • Muddy Creek Adventures
    Muddy Creek Adventures
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (3 hour sunset, fishing, and dolphin watching.)

    AmaIng Day on the Water

    Captain James was awesome. Took my 15 year old grandson out to fish and sightsee and just make memorires. Captain James tended to all our needs and requeats. He was knowledgeable and overall juat a down to earth great guy. highly recommend!!
    Luray T.
    Luray T.
    Reviewed on Aug 16, 2026
  • Live-N-Good Charters
    Live-N-Good Charters
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (2 Hour – Sunset Tour)

    Sunset Trip

    Captain Jacob took myself and my kids on a sunset trip! We got the added bonus of seeing dolphins!
    Kali C.
    Kali C.
    Reviewed on Aug 9, 2026
  • Lizardfish Charters And Island Adventures
    Lizardfish Charters And Island Adventures
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (4 Hour – Custom Boat Adventure (AM))

    Great day on the water!!

    We really enjoyed our day on the water. The captain took us to look for shark teeth, swimming on a sandbar and fishing. Highly recommend!!
    Judy P.
    Judy P.
    Reviewed on Aug 7, 2026
  • Seaside Charter Co. Island Excursions Topsail
    Seaside Charter Co. Island Excursions Topsail
    Boat rentals in North Carolina
    5.0
    /5
    (Sunset cruise Topsail)

    Great experience!

    We saw a ton of dolphins, went to a deserted island to hunt for sea shells and Captain Jake was very nice and experienced.
    Mullins S.
    Mullins S.
    Reviewed on Aug 8, 2026