Cape Fear Riverboat Cruises

Cape Fear Riverboats has been running tours out of downtown Wilmington since 1987, making it the longest continuously operating boat tour on the Cape Fear River.

The lineup of tours gives you plenty of options depending on what you’re after. The daily one-hour sightseeing tours feature live narration from experienced captains covering the history, legends, and culture of Wilmington, with views of the Battleship USS North Carolina, Eagle Island, downtown murals and buildings, and the NC State Port. If you want something more immersive, the Black River Nature Tour is a four-hour excursion into a beautiful coastal environment with narration from local ecologist Andy Wood, running twice a month from May through October. Sunset cruises are also available for those who just want to relax on the water.

The main vessel, the Henrietta, holds up to 100 passengers and comes with air conditioning, a full-service bar, and indoor and outdoor decks. The smaller Osprey holds up to 25 guests and is great for more intimate outings or private charters. Both boats are available to rent for private events including weddings, birthday parties, corporate functions, and reunions.