Southport Water Tours offers private cruises on the Cape Fear River and Atlantic sounds, combining wildlife viewing, local history, and sunset serenity for a uniquely calm outdoor adventure in North Carolina.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
Southport’s waterfront has served as a key port since the 18th century, with ties to both fishing and naval defense.
Conservation
Tours emphasize low-impact boating and promoting awareness of local bird sanctuaries to protect delicate estuarine environments.
Southport Water Tours
Southport Water Tours offers private cruises on the Cape Fear River and Atlantic sounds, combining wildlife viewing, local history, and sunset serenity for a uniquely calm outdoor adventure in North Carolina.
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.
Arrive Early to Secure Parking
Parking near the departure point can be competitive during peak seasons; give yourself extra time to find a spot.
Bring Sun Protection
The boat’s open-sided coverage means UV rays reflect from the water; sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential.
Pack Refillable Water Bottles
Staying hydrated is key on these river cruises; bottled water is recommended, especially for afternoon and sunset trips.
Dress in Layers
Temperatures can shift on the water due to wind and evening chill, so layering light jackets is advised.
Sunscreen
Protects skin from UV rays reflecting off the water.
summer
Hat and Sunglasses
Provides shade and reduces glare during sunny afternoon and evening cruises.
summer
Light Jacket or Sweater
Keeps you warm during cooler evening or spring outings on the water.
fall
Reusable Water Bottle
Helps you stay hydrated during trips, especially on hot days.