Private Sailing Tour on Roanoke Sound: Discover Outer Banks by Catamaran

Read the full experience

Set sail on a personalized 3-hour journey across the shimmering waters of Roanoke Sound in the heart of the Outer Banks, North Carolina. This private sailing tour aboard the sleek 40-foot catamaran operated by Take Two Catamaran Tours offers an intimate experience for up to six guests, perfect for small groups or families craving a serene escape on the water. Positioned just off the historic town of Manteo, this tour provides a rare vantage point to absorb the natural beauty and vibrant wildlife of this unique barrier island ecosystem. Roanoke Sound, a broad inlet separating Roanoke Island from mainland North Carolina, is renowned for its calm waters and rich marine life, making it ideal for sailing and wildlife watching. Captain Butch Stone, a seasoned local mariner, guides each trip with a deep respect for the environment and a wealth of local knowledge, ensuring every moment aboard is filled with discovery. Passengers can expect frequent sightings of bottlenose dolphins leaping alongside the boat, graceful ospreys diving for fish, and majestic brown pelicans gliding above the water's surface. The catamaran itself offers a stable, smooth ride with spacious decks perfect for lounging and photography. Its design provides ample shade and comfort while allowing unobstructed 360-degree views of the surrounding waterways, sunsets, and island vistas. The Outer Banks, historically rich as the site of early English settlements and the legendary Lost Colony of Roanoke, adds a cultural layer to the natural spectacle, offering skippers and storytellers like Captain Butch a rich tapestry of history to share. This tour stands apart as a premier sailing experience in the region—combining luxury, adventure, and education in one package. Unlike crowded group tours, the private nature of this excursion means personalized attention and a pace tailored to your interests, from quiet moments watching wildlife to engaging conversations about local ecology and history. Whether you're a sailing enthusiast, wildlife observer, or visitor eager to explore the Outer Banks from a new perspective, this tour unlocks a serene and rewarding chapter of this coastal environment. Adventure Collective readers seeking a blend of comfort, connection with nature, and expert guidance will find this private sailing tour an unforgettable highlight of their Outer Banks visit.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels; no physical exertion required beyond boarding and moving about the boat.

Frequently asked questions

How many people can join the private sailing tour?

The tour accommodates a maximum of six passengers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Is prior sailing experience necessary?

No sailing experience is required; Captain Butch Stone handles all navigation and sailing tasks.

Are pets allowed on the boat?

Pets are not permitted to maintain comfort and safety for all guests.

What wildlife might I see during the tour?

Common sightings include bottlenose dolphins, brown pelicans, and ospreys.

What is the cancellation policy?

Please check the booking site for specific details, as policies may vary by season and weather conditions.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Due to the design of the catamaran and dock, wheelchair accessibility is limited; please contact the operator directly for assistance.

Local insights

Wildlife

Bottlenose dolphin
Brown pelican

History

Roanoke Island is famous as the site of the Lost Colony, the first English settlement attempt in the New World, dating back to 1587.

Conservation

Take Two Catamaran Tours practices eco-friendly operations to minimize impact on fragile marine habitats and encourages guests to support sustainable tourism.

About Take Two Catamaran Sailing Tours

Take Two Catamaran Sailing Tours operates private catamaran charters in Key Largo, Florida, and the Outer Banks, North Carolina. The company offers intimate outings aboard a luxurious 40-foot catamaran captained by Captain Butch Stone. Each trip is limited to six passengers, creating a personalized sailing experience ideal for couples, families, and small groups. In Key Largo, Take Two runs private 3-hour sailing tours and private sunset sails through the Florida Keys. Guests can expect scenic coastal waters, opportunities to see playful dolphins and seabirds, and quiet time on the water for photography or relaxation. The Key Largo sunset sail focuses on evening light and coastal wildlife while maintaining a small-group atmosphere. In the Outer Banks, the same 40-foot catamaran and captain navigate the Roanoke Sound for private 3-hour tours and sunset sails. These excursions highlight local birdlife such as ospreys and pelicans, along with dolphin sightings common to the area. The Outer Banks trips emphasize close-up views of sound-side scenery and coastal habitats. Safety and personalized attention are core elements of the experience. Captain Butch Stone leads each voyage with local knowledge of tides, wildlife, and scenic routes. Reservations are private charters, ensuring control over guest numbers and itinerary focus. Take Two Catamaran Sailing Tours positions itself as a choice for travelers seeking intimate, wildlife-friendly sailing in Key Largo and the Outer Banks. Private tours can be tailored to guest preferences; availability and specific itinerary details depend on scheduling and should be confirmed with Take Two before booking online directly.

Base locationManteo, North Carolina

Tours offered4+

Specialty

Adventure tips

Bring binoculars for wildlife viewingTo fully appreciate dolphin and osprey sightings, pack a pair of binoculars for closer views.

Wear layered clothingCoastal winds can shift quickly; layers help you stay comfortable during the sail.

Apply reef-safe sunscreenProtect your skin and the fragile marine environment by choosing eco-friendly sunscreen.

Arrive early for parkingParking near 602 N Bay Club Drive can fill quickly; early arrival secures a spot.

Recommended gear

Binoculars: Enhance wildlife spotting of dolphins and birds while sailing.
Sunglasses: Protects eyes from sun glare on open water.
Windbreaker jacket: Provides warmth against cool spring breezes on the water.
Water bottle: Staying hydrated is important during the multi-hour sailing tour.