Cruise the Loop: Wrightsville Beach’s Luxury Yacht Escape
A polished three-hour yacht charter through Wrightsville Beach’s blue highways—Masonboro, Figure Eight, and the Intracoastal at golden hour.
The yacht noses out from the marina just as the Intracoastal Waterway decides to wake up. The tide pulls like it has somewhere to be; gulls giggle along the rails; a pair of dolphins surface, offer you a knowing look, and slide away. Aboard a sleek 60' Absolute, teak warms under bare feet while the first chords from the onboard sound system drift across Banks Channel. Wrightsville Beach stretches ahead—low and luminous—its barrier islands trading secrets with the breeze. This is the easy, polished side of coastal adventure, the kind that lets the water do the talking while you savor the conversation.
Trail Wisdom
Time Your Tide
High tide smooths the Intracoastal and can open up routes toward Figure Eight; check the tide table and book a window that matches your priorities.
Deck-Friendly Footwear
Wear non-marking soles or go barefoot—dark treads scuff teak and fiberglass decks.
Sun Strategy
Even with a breeze, UV is strong. Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a brimmed hat, and sunglasses with polarization for glare-free views.
Snacks, Not Coolers
Pack snacks and canned beverages—there’s a large cooler with ice onboard. Leave personal coolers at home and skip the red wine.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •South end of Masonboro Island at low tide for quiet tidal pools and wading (conditions permitting)
- •Banks Channel during golden hour—moored sailboats and calm water make for relaxed, cinematic views
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Ospreys and brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Masonboro Island is part of the N.C. National Estuarine Research Reserve—stay off dune vegetation, respect no-wake zones, and pack out everything you bring.
Wrightsville Beach was once served by a seaside trolley connecting to Wilmington, and this stretch of the Intracoastal became navigable in the early 20th century as part of the larger waterway linking the Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Dolphin sightings
Challenges: Breezy afternoons, Variable weather fronts
Spring offers calm mornings and fewer crowds. Expect fresh breezes and bright, clear water along the marsh edges.
summer
Best for: Swimming off the sandbar (conditions permitting), Long golden hours
Challenges: High UV and heat, Afternoon thunderstorms, Busy boat traffic
Summer is prime time for warm water and late sunsets. Hydrate, cover up, and plan for pop-up storms.
fall
Best for: Fewer boats and soft light, Warm water lingering into October
Challenges: Tropical systems possible, Cooler evenings
Fall brings glassy channels and painterly sunsets. It’s shoulder-season perfection with a light layer at speed.
winter
Best for: Crisp air and birdlife, Quiet waterways
Challenges: Cold windchill on the run, Short daylight windows
Winter cruises can be serene and crowd-free. Dress warm and aim for midday sun.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Cuts glare for spotting dolphins, sandbars, and shallow-water color changes.
Light Windbreaker
Takes the edge off breeze when the yacht is underway, especially in shoulder seasons.
Non-Marking Deck ShoesEssential
Good grip and no scuffs keep you steady and the deck clean.
Small Dry Bag
Protects phones and cameras from spray without leaving them below deck.
Common Questions
Can we bring our own food and drinks?
Yes—bring snacks and beverages. A large cooler with ice, cups, plates, and utensils is provided. Please do not bring personal coolers and avoid red wine.
Is there a bathroom on board?
Yes. The 60' yacht has a head (restroom) for guest use.
What is the minimum age for this charter?
Guests must be at least 13 years old to join this cruise.
Will we stop to swim or go ashore?
Swim or sandbar stops may be possible depending on conditions, time, and safety. The captain will decide the best options on the day of your charter.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
Safety comes first. The captain monitors conditions and may adjust the route, reschedule, or discuss options with you if weather becomes unsafe.
I get seasick—will this be rough?
Most of the cruise is on protected Intracoastal waters, which are typically calm. If the ocean is choppy, the captain can keep the trip inside for a smoother ride.
What to Pack
Canned beverages and favorite snacks—the crew provides a large cooler with ice, so leave personal coolers at home; Reef-safe SPF 30+ sunscreen and a brimmed hat to handle strong coastal sun; Non-marking deck shoes or grippy sandals for stable footing on wet decks; Light windbreaker to cut the breeze when the yacht is underway, even on warm days.
Did You Know
Masonboro Island Reserve is the largest undisturbed barrier island in southern North Carolina, stretching roughly eight miles and protecting essential nursery habitat for fish and shorebirds.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a sunset slot for the best light and cooler temps; Arrive 15–20 minutes early for dockside parking and boarding instructions; BYO drinks and snacks but skip red wine and personal coolers; Tipping 15–20% for the crew is customary for great service.
Local Flavor
Post-cruise, grab fish tacos and a local IPA at Tower 7 in Wrightsville Beach, or head into Wilmington for oysters and river views at Smoke on the Water. Coffee lovers can fuel up beforehand at SUNdays on Causeway Drive. If you’ve got time to linger, stroll The Loop or catch sunset on the public docks at Banks Channel before dinner.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Wilmington International (ILM), ~20 minutes by car. Meet at Good Energy Charters in Wrightsville Beach—exact dock details are provided after booking. Drive time from downtown Wilmington: ~15–20 minutes depending on beach traffic. Cell service: generally strong along the Intracoastal; may be spottier just offshore. Permits: none required for passengers; minimum age 13; no red wine and no personal coolers.
Sustainability Note
Masonboro Island and surrounding marshes are sensitive estuarine habitats. Keep wakes low near shorelines, avoid trampling dune vegetation, pack out all trash, and choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect water quality and wildlife.