easy
1.5–2 hours
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required as trips are seated on boats.
Set out from Carolina Beach with Island Cruises Inc. for evening cruises that highlight coastal beauty and community spirit. Enjoy sunset sails, holiday light flotillas, and adults-only moonlit voyages on the Atlantic.
Carolina Beach, located on North Carolina’s Atlantic coast, offers a refreshing blend of salt air and maritime charm uniquely suited for coastal boat adventures. Island Cruises Inc. taps into this vibrant waterfront scene with a collection of evening and nighttime boat experiences designed to showcase the area’s natural beauty from a different vantage point. Operating from Carolina Beach, this local company provides special cruises that turn ordinary evenings into memorable outdoor escapes.
Each trip revolves around the water’s shifting moods—from the calm pastel skies of the Sunset Cruise to the glowing spectacle of the Holiday Flotilla and the Island of Lights Flotilla, where adorned boats light up waterways with holiday cheer. The Moonlight Cruise, strictly for guests 21 and older, offers a sophisticated way to enjoy the water under stars and soft moonlight, perfect for those seeking a serene yet invigorating night on the Atlantic.
What sets Island Cruises Inc. apart here is its ability to connect travelers with both the serene coastal landscapes and community-focused celebrations unique to this part of North Carolina. Wrightsville Beach and the surrounding islands add to the scenic backdrop—framed by dunes, maritime forests, and the ever-present Atlantic Ocean. The area’s mild climate means these cruises run nearly year-round, offering a local perspective on coastal life including glimpses of seabirds, dolphins, and night sky constellations.
Whether it’s a festive gathering with the flotilla parade or a tranquil evening spell on the water, these cruises deliver immersive access to the region’s outdoor charm. For visitors heading to the Carolina Beach area looking to make the most of its waterways after daylight fades, Island Cruises Inc. offers a distinctly coastal experience built on good timing, community, and the natural rhythm of the sea.
Popular holiday and moonlight cruises fill quickly—reserve your spot early to guarantee availability.
Temperatures can drop after sunset on the water; bring layers and a windbreaker for comfort.
Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early to ensure a smooth boarding process and time to settle in.
Moonlight Cruise is for guests 21+ only, so have valid ID ready if you plan to join this night trip.
Carolina Beach’s coastal culture dates back to early 20th-century fishing and recreational boating, with Wrightsville Beach historically known for its vibrant sailing community.
Local operators follow guidelines to minimize marine disturbance and protect delicate coastal ecosystems, balancing tourism with environmental stewardship.
Helps adjust for temperature changes on open water during evening hours.
spring|fall|winter specific
Protects against coastal breezes and occasional light rain.
spring|summer|fall specific
Enhances wildlife viewing and distant coastal scenery.
Captures scenic sunsets, light displays, and moonlit water reflections.