Adventure Collective
Explore Cape Lookout: Unforgettable 6-Hour Cruise from Beaufort, NC - Beaufort

Explore Cape Lookout: Unforgettable 6-Hour Cruise from Beaufort, NC

Beauforteasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

6 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion involved

Overview

Discover the beauty of Cape Lookout on a 6-hour catamaran cruise from Beaufort, NC. Swim, snorkel, tour the lighthouse museum, and savor coastal views on this unique guided maritime experience.

Beaufort, North Carolina

Cape Lookout Cruise

6 hours • All Ages • 37 Passenger Sailboat

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on a memorable 6-hour cruise to the stunning Cape Lookout lighthouse aboard a comfortable 45-foot catamaran. Enjoy a delicious catered lunch, swim, snorkel, and explore the Keeper’s Quarters museum. With breathtaking views and unique experiences, this adventure promises a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration on the East Coast.

The beauty of the Cape Lookout lighthouse and its pristine surroundings is unparalleled.

Duration

6 hours

Pricing

$139 Adults $119 Children

About

You’ll really appreciate the stability and comfort of this 45-foot catamaran as we briskly make the six mile ocean voyage to one of the premier anchorages in America.

Our 6 hour cruise departs at 12 Noon for the approximate1-1/2 hour sail to Cape Lookout where you’ll enjoy 3 hours at two different locations. For our first stop at the tip of Cape Lookout, we beach the boat and serve up a delicious catered lunch from the Beaufort Grocery Co. Restaurant. When you taste their signature sandwiches, salads and desserts, you’ll see why locals and visitors alike have made Beaufort Grocery Co. a favorite. On board stairs offer easy access on and off the boat for unbelievable swimming, snorkeling (bring your own equipment) and some of the best shelling on the East Coast. Large clean restrooms and a freshwater deck shower are provided. We then tie up at the government dock for our second stop allowing time to visit the Keeper’s Quarters museum, the National Park store and the east beach of South Core Banks. While here you can get spectacular photos of the Lighthouse.

Please note: Under most circumstances we have found that the Cape Lookout Cruise is too long in duration for children under the age of 5.

Please note: We require at least 12 people in order for our cruise to depart. If we do not reach this minimum we will contact you to reschedule.

Please bring a valid, government issued photo ID. Some activities and enjoying alcoholic beverages require that we verify your age.

What's included and what to bring

What's included:

  • 90 minutes of sailing to and from Cape Lookout
  • Catered lunch at Cape Lookout
  • Stops at 2 destinations for swimming and snorkeling (bring your own equipment.)
  • Options to visit the Keeper's Quarter's Museum

What to bring:

  • Hat
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Bathing suit
  • Camera
  • Beach towel
  • Snorkeling gear

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a restroom on board? Yes. An on-board restroom is available.

Are masks required while on board? We do not require masks to be worn while on the boat. The entire experience with Lookout Cruises is open-air and breezy, allowing for a safe adventure. We do invite guests to wear masks if they feel more comfortable doing so.

Is there shade on board? Yes. On the boat there are shaded areas to sit and stand.

Do you allow coolers to be brought on board? No. We do not allow guests to bring personal coolers.

Is Lookout Cruises wheelchair accessible? We are able to accommodate for wheelchair access with some limitations. Please call our office for more information before booking.

Will the water be choppy? Can the boat handle rough conditions? We always make sure that the conditions are safe for sailing before departure. The water around Beaufort is typically calm and flat, although it can become choppy periodically. Our boat has no issue navigating rougher waters while allowing for guests to enjoy themselves.

Do I need to worry about sea-sickness? It is very rare that guests experience sea-sickness while on board the vessel. For folks that are especially vulnerable to sea-sickness or motion-sickness, we recommend taking dramamine or similar medications the morning of your cruise. Please talk to your doctor before taking any new medication.

Adventure Tips

Bring water shoes

The shorelines around Cape Lookout can be rocky and sandy; water shoes make swimming and walking more comfortable.

Protect yourself from the sun

Spending hours on open water means intense sun exposure; wear a hat, sunscreen, and UV-protective clothing.

Pack a swimsuit and towel

Opportunities to swim and snorkel are part of the cruise, so be ready to dive in and enjoy the water.

Listen to the captain’s briefings

The crew provides important safety instructions and interesting information about local history and wildlife; paying attention enhances your experience.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Dolphins frequently swim alongside the boat
  • Sea turtles inhabit the coastal waters around Cape Lookout

History

Cape Lookout Lighthouse has guided sailors since 1859, marking dangerous shoals that claimed many ships during the Age of Sail.

Conservation

The Cape Lookout National Seashore is managed by the National Park Service to preserve its natural habitat and minimize human impact on this fragile coastal ecosystem.

Select participants and date

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sunscreen

Essential

Critical for protecting skin during extended sun exposure on the open deck.

summer specific

Swimsuit

Essential

Needed for swimming and snorkeling activities on the cruise.

summer specific

Light jacket or windbreaker

Helpful for cooler breezes out on the water, especially in mornings and evenings.

spring specific

Polarized sunglasses

Essential

Reduce glare off the water and improve visibility during the cruise.

summer specific