Step aboard the Sally Ann for a 50-minute cruise along the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. Experience Southport's rich history and vibrant wildlife on this captivating scenic tour.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
50 minutes
Fitness Level
No special fitness required; accessible for all ages and mobility levels.
Wildlife
History
Southport was a key port town during the colonial era and played roles in both the Revolutionary and Civil Wars.
Conservation
Local operators emphasize eco-friendly practices to minimize impact on fragile marsh ecosystems and protect native wildlife.
Southport Water Tours
Step aboard the Sally Ann for a 50-minute cruise along the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. Experience Southport's rich history and vibrant wildlife on this captivating scenic tour.
Southport Water Tours operates guided and private boat excursions from Southport, North Carolina, offering sightseeing, sunset, and customizable private cruises along the Cape Fear River and Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway. The company runs a narrated 50-minute Sightseeing Cruise aboard the Sally Ann, intimate private options including the Private Sunset Cruise and Private Sightseeing Cruise, and specialty vessels such as the 25ft Parker pilot house River Runner and the floating tiki bar TIKI TIME.
Trips accommodate a range of group sizes and purposes, from quiet wildlife viewing and family outings to celebratory events like weddings and sunset gatherings. Several offerings explicitly invite guests to bring drinks and playlists, while the River Runner serves as a flexible water taxi and private cruiser for up to six passengers. TIKI TIME private cruises support up to 12 passengers and emphasize laid-back island-style experiences.
Captains provide light narration on historical sites, local ecology, and coastal landmarks, enhancing each voyage with regional context. Operating from Southport, the company focuses on safety, punctual departures, and scenic routes through the Intracoastal Waterway and Cape Fear River.
Reservations can be made for scheduled public cruises or arranged as private charters tailored to specific itineraries and durations. The business highlights local knowledge of Southport and nearby Oak Island, delivering memorable waterfront experiences for visitors and residents seeking guided tours, sunset cruises, or custom private trips. Schedules vary seasonally; peak months offer more departures while off-peak periods allow flexible private charter scheduling and personalized route planning. Reservations are recommended for private trips.
Location
Southport, NC
On the Cape Fear River
Fleet
Sally Ann, River Runner, TIKI TIME
Varied boats for different group sizes
Max Group Size
12 passengers
Largest private trips accommodate twelve
Trip Lengths
50–90 minutes
Short tours and longer sunset cruises
Book the Sally Ann, River Runner, or TIKI TIME for a narrated tour, sunset cruise, or private charter in Southport, NC.
Bring binoculars
Binoculars enhance wildlife spotting, especially for birds and distant dolphins along the route.
Dress in layers
Waterfront weather can change quickly; layering helps you stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Wear sun protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are recommended due to open-deck exposure.
Arrive early
Arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure smooth boarding and seat selection.
Sunhat
Protects from the spring sun during the open-air cruise.
spring
Light jacket
Keep a light jacket handy for cooler breezes on summer evenings.
summer
Water-resistant jacket
Fall weather can bring unexpected showers; a water-resistant jacket keeps you dry.
fall
Warm layers
Keep warm against cold wind on the water during winter cruises.
winter