Tide Lines and Wild Horses: A Crystal Coast Eco Tour with Southern Voyage Charters
Wild horses, calm coves, and saltmarsh horizons—explore the Crystal Coast by small boat.
The boat noses from Dudley’s Marina and into the shimmering braid of Bogue Sound, where marsh grass leans with the tide and ospreys trace circles in the clean morning light. The water presses its cool breath against the hull, urging you forward. Behind you, the stillness of Cedar Point slips away; ahead, a horizon stitched with barrier islands, shoals, and the possibility of dolphins surfacing like quiet punctuation marks. The captain eases the throttle, and the Pathfinder skims toward open water—six guests, salt on the air, and a day that promises the simple thrill of discovery.
Trail Wisdom
Time the Tide
Ask your captain about tide timing—mid-to-low tides often expose the best shell and shark tooth lines on nearby sandbars.
Polarized Advantage
Polarized sunglasses cut glare so you can spot stingrays, crabs, and dolphins more easily in the shallow green water.
Respect the Horses
If you encounter wild horses, keep a minimum of 50 feet, stay quiet, and never feed or approach them.
Pack for Spray
Even on calm days, crossings can be splashy—stash phones in a dry bag and bring a light layer if the wind picks up.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Bear Island (Hammocks Beach State Park) for pristine beaches and quiet shelling
- •Rachel Carson Reserve’s shallow flats for birding and distant views of the Beaufort horse herd
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphins, Osprey and brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Seagrass meadows and marsh edges are vital nurseries—avoid trampling or anchoring on grass beds and never feed wildlife.
Fort Macon guarded the inlet through the Civil War, and Blackbeard’s Queen Anne’s Revenge wreck was discovered near Beaufort Inlet in 1996.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildlife sightings, Mild temps
Challenges: Windy afternoons, Cooler water
Clear, pleasant days and active wildlife make spring a prime time for eco touring, especially mornings with glassy water.
summer
Best for: Swimming & sandbar time, Family outings
Challenges: Heat & UV, Afternoon storms
Hot, vibrant, and busy—aim for early or late tours to beat the heat and catch smooth conditions before pop-up thunderstorms.
fall
Best for: Fewer crowds, Warm water
Challenges: Hurricane season remnants, Variable wind
September–October brings golden light, warm seas, and excellent visibility; watch forecasts during stormy stretches.
winter
Best for: Empty waterways, Crisp visibility
Challenges: Chilly temps, Limited swim time
Quiet channels and migratory birds reward cold-weather riders; bundle up and expect brisk runs between stops.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Reduces surface glare so you can spot marine life and read the water’s subtle color changes.
Water Shoes or SandalsEssential
Protects feet when wading across shelly or oyster-studded sandbars.
UPF Sun Shirt & HatEssential
High-coverage layers keep you cool and protected from strong coastal sun.
Compact Dry Bag
Keeps phones, keys, and a light layer dry during spray or quick dips.
Common Questions
Where do tours depart?
Tours typically depart from Dudley’s Marina in Cedar Point, offering quick access to Bogue Sound, Emerald Isle, and nearby sandbars.
Can kids join the tour?
Yes—tours are family-friendly, with calm-water stops for swimming and shelling; always supervise young children on deck and at sandbars.
Will we see wild horses?
Wild horse sightings are common but never guaranteed; the captain adjusts routes based on conditions and recent activity to maximize your chances.
Do I need to bring anything?
Water is provided; bring sun protection, polarized sunglasses, water shoes, and a small dry bag for phones and valuables.
Is swimming always possible?
Usually in summer and early fall; the captain chooses protected spots with gentle current. Cooler seasons may be better for wildlife viewing than swimming.
Can we combine the eco tour with a sunset cruise?
Yes—add a sunset segment to finish with calm light, fewer boats on the water, and excellent photo conditions.
What to Pack
Polarized sunglasses for spotting wildlife; water shoes for shell-studded sandbars; UPF sun shirt and hat for all-day protection; compact dry bag to protect phones and layers from spray.
Did You Know
The wild horses of Shackleford Banks are believed to be descendants of Spanish mustangs, adapted to forage on salt-tolerant grasses and sea oats along the Cape Lookout National Seashore.
Quick Travel Tips
Book morning or late-afternoon slots for calmer water and cooler temps; bring cash or card for post-tour seafood shacks nearby; check wind forecasts—15+ knot afternoons can get choppy; allow buffer time for bridge traffic onto Emerald Isle in peak summer.
Local Flavor
Refuel with shrimp tacos at Bogue Inlet Pier and a soft-serve cone while you watch anglers wrap up the day. For a sit-down meal, try Beaufort Grocery Co. on Front Street or grab a pint at Mill Whistle Brewing in Beaufort. In Swansboro, stroll the waterfront for fresh-catch specials and sunset views over the White Oak River.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airports: OAJ (Jacksonville) ~40 min, EWN (New Bern) ~55 min, ILM (Wilmington) ~1 hr 30 min. Departure: Dudley’s Marina, Cedar Point. Drive time: ~10–15 min from Emerald Isle, ~35–45 min from Morehead City/Beaufort. Cell service: Generally good near shore; patchy in remote flats. Permits: None required for passengers; no fishing license needed unless you plan to fish.
Sustainability Note
These waters shelter seagrass nurseries and shorebird nesting zones—pack out all trash, keep respectful distances from wildlife, and follow the captain’s guidance to avoid sensitive habitats.