Discover a relaxing and scenic sunset aboard the Albemarle Queen in Elizabeth City. Glide through waters rich with history and wildlife as the day ends with breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness required, suitable for most ages
Wildlife
History
The Albemarle Sound has been a vital part of North Carolina’s maritime trade since the 17th century.
Conservation
The cruise emphasizes low-impact tourism, promoting preservation of local waterways and wildlife habitats.
Harbor Towns Cruises
Discover a relaxing and scenic sunset aboard the Albemarle Queen in Elizabeth City. Glide through waters rich with history and wildlife as the day ends with breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
Harbor Towns Cruises operates sightseeing and dining cruises from Elizabeth City, North Carolina, aboard the Albemarle Queen, a historic 90-foot paddlewheel riverboat. The company offers a range of scheduled experiences including brunch cruises, sunset cruises, themed live-music brunches, and private events such as wedding celebrations. Routes travel through the Harbor Towns and scenic waterways like Shallowbag Bay and Albemarle Plantation, giving passengers open-air views from the top deck and sheltered seating in the vessel's cozy interior.
Scheduled public departures include Brunch Cruise from Elizabeth City and Edenton, Sunset Cruise from Elizabeth City and Edenton, and special-event sailings such as the Albemarle Queen Live Bluegrass Brunch Cruise and the Banjos and Sunsets Cruise. The operation also accommodates group and private charters, exemplified by the Perquimans County High School 1965 Class Reunion Cruise and wedding celebration charters. Live bluegrass music features on select brunch and sunset sailings.
Safety procedures and vessel maintenance follow local requirements for passenger riverboats; crewed operations use trained staff familiar with the Albemarle Queen. Reservations, event customization, and group inquiries are handled through the business's booking channels; wedding inquiries list contact 844 ibx boat in event information. Harbor Towns Cruises focuses on delivering historic-riverboat experiences that combine dining, live entertainment, and coastal scenery for residents and visitors to northeastern North Carolina.
Vessel Size
90 ft
Historic paddlewheel riverboat
Tours Offered
9 tours
Brunch, sunset, themed, private
Typical Duration
2 hours
Many cruises run two hours
Live Music
Available
Bluegrass on select cruises
Book a brunch or sunset cruise, or inquire about private events and wedding charters to secure a memorable Harbor Towns experience.
Arrive early for the best vantage points
Get to the boat at least 15 minutes before departure to secure a good spot on the open-air deck.
Bring your camera and binoculars
Capture the sunset and watch for local wildlife like herons and seals during the cruise.
Dress comfortably and bring layers
Evening breezes can be cool; layers ensure you stay comfortable throughout the cruise.
Reserve your tickets in advance
This popular cruise can sell out; booking ahead guarantees your spot on the sunset voyage.
Camera or smartphone
Capture sunset views and wildlife encounters during the cruise.
Layers and light jacket
Prepare for changing temperatures in the evening.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Binoculars
Spot wildlife like birds, seals, and fish along the water.
Sunscreen and hat
Protect yourself from the sun during the cruise.
summer