Discover the beauty of North Carolina’s coastline with a private boat tour that offers bespoke adventures. Perfect for wildlife watching, fishing, or relaxing on the water, this experience is tailored just for you.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal physical activity required
Wildlife
History
The coast of North Carolina has a rich maritime history, with settlements dating back centuries that relied heavily on fishing and trade.
Conservation
H2O Captain Eco-Tour emphasizes eco-friendly practices, supporting local conservation efforts to preserve delicate marshlands and wildlife habitats.
H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions
Discover the beauty of North Carolina’s coastline with a private boat tour that offers bespoke adventures. Perfect for wildlife watching, fishing, or relaxing on the water, this experience is tailored just for you.
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.
Bring Your Camera
Capture stunning waterfront views and wildlife sightings during your private boat tour.
Wear Sun Protection
Apply sunscreen and wear hats to stay protected during sunny outdoor water activities.
Insect Repellent
Bring repellent to avoid insects, especially if exploring marshlands and estuaries.
Book in Advance
Reserve your private excursion early to ensure availability during your preferred dates.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from UV rays during outdoor water activities on the boat.
summer
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities during your trip.
spring|fall
Light Jacket
Bring a jacket for cooler temperatures during morning or evening cruises.
winter|spring
Water Shoes
Useful if you plan to explore shoreline or shallow waters on foot.
summer