Join H2O Captain Eco-Tour for a private 4-hour trip to Shackleford Banks, where wild horses graze and shells line the beaches. Perfect for a peaceful day immersed in North Carolina’s coastal beauty.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended for walking and standing on beaches
Wildlife
History
Shackleford Banks has been inhabited by wild horses for centuries, believed to descend from ships’ castoffs in the 16th century.
Conservation
H2O Captain’s tours emphasize eco-friendly practices, ensuring the preservation of the island’s fragile ecosystem for future generations.
H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions
Join H2O Captain Eco-Tour for a private 4-hour trip to Shackleford Banks, where wild horses graze and shells line the beaches. Perfect for a peaceful day immersed in North Carolina’s coastal beauty.
H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions provides private, small-group boat charters along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast. Captain Mark leads guided eco-focused trips to Shackleford Banks, Sand Dollar Island, Cape Lookout, and local creeks, highlighting wild Shackleford Banker horses, dolphin encounters, shelling, and coastal history. Trips include sunset cruises, two-island adventures, half-day lighthouse tours, serene beach picnics, canal explorations, and custom charters designed for families, shellers, photographers, and new boat owners. Every excursion emphasizes respectful wildlife viewing, low-impact anchoring, and shoreline stewardship to protect fragile habitats.
The fleet offers comfortable, private vessels equipped for short to half-day outings ranging from three to five and a half hours. The two-island tour supplies reusable shelling bags for participants; other itineraries feature guided walks, lighthouse visits, and secluded picnic spots reachable only by boat. Custom itineraries can include overnight plans, navigation coaching, and targeted mariner guidance for shallow-water routes.
H2O Captain Eco-Tour maintains local knowledge of currents, tides, and seasonal wildlife behavior, ensuring safe, memorable, and educational experiences. Booking is private by design, allowing personalized pacing and focus on each group’s interests. The operation serves visitors to Beaufort, Morehead City, Atlantic Beach, and surrounding waterfront communities, providing clear meeting points such as Coral Bay Marina. Reviews consistently praise natural encounters, Captain Mark’s local expertise, and thoughtful trip planning. For visitors seeking an intimate, conservation-minded way to experience the Crystal Coast’s wild horses, beaches, and waterways, H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions delivers tailored, trustworthy adventures.
Advance reservations are recommended year-round for popular seasonal trips.
Captain
Captain Mark
Known local guide
Destinations
Shackleford & Cape Lookout
Wild horses, sand dollars, beaches
Trip Lengths
3–5.5 hours
Short to half-day adventures
Keepsake
Reusable shelling bag
Included on 2-island tour
Secure a tailored Crystal Coast boat excursion—wild horses, shelling, dolphins, and sunset trips sell out fast.
Wear sturdy, waterproof footwear
Shelling and walking on beaches can be tricky; waterproof shoes help keep your feet dry and provide good traction.
Bring sun protection
Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to shield yourself during peak sun hours on the beach and boat deck.
Pack light, layers if needed
Weather can change quickly near the coast; bring layers for comfort without overloading your gear.
Respect the wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wild horses and avoid disturbing nesting or resting birds.
Sun protection
Helps prevent sunburns during extended outdoor time on the boat and beach.
summer
Shelling bag or bucket
Useful for collecting and carrying shells during your walk on the beach.
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife sightings, especially of wild horses and waterfowl.
Light jacket or windbreaker
Provides extra warmth during cooler coastal breezes.
spring/fall