Experience a personalized sunset cruise on Newport River where wild horses roam and local history comes alive. Enjoy stunning coastal views with a friendly guide in a relaxed atmosphere.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as this is a relaxed boat tour with minimal physical exertion
Wildlife
History
Beaufort was established in 1709 and is known for its maritime heritage and role in the Civil War.
Conservation
The cruise operator supports local conservation efforts by educating guests on protecting coastal ecosystems and promotes no-trace boating practices.
Waterbug Tours
Experience a personalized sunset cruise on Newport River where wild horses roam and local history comes alive. Enjoy stunning coastal views with a friendly guide in a relaxed atmosphere.
Waterbug Tours is a Beaufort, North Carolina boat tour operator offering short, narrated cruises that highlight local wildlife, coastal scenery, and regional history. Operating from Beaufort, the company provides three distinct experiences: the Fireworks Cruise, the Sunset Cruise, and The Wild Horse, Nature & History Cruise. Each trip is led by a friendly local captain who provides on-board narration and regional context.
The Fireworks Cruise departs in the evening, explores local waterways, and anchors in the Intracoastal Waterway to view two to three nearby fireworks displays while searching for dolphins and wild horses. The Sunset Cruise navigates Newport River and Core Sound with relaxed, BYOB-friendly comfort and guided storytelling about local history and natural sights. The Wild Horse, Nature & History Cruise is a shaded 45–60 minute outing from Beaufort through Taylor’s Creek and portions of the Rachel Carson Reserve, focused on shoreline wild horse viewing and coastal ecology.
Waterbug Tours emphasizes passenger comfort and local knowledge. Boats are captained by experienced guides familiar with Beaufort-area waterways and wildlife patterns. Guests are advised to bring weather-appropriate clothing and may bring their own beverages on select cruises. As a locally based operator featured on The Adventure Collective, Waterbug Tours offers accessible coastal experiences for families, couples, and small groups seeking wildlife viewing and scenic boat trips in eastern North Carolina.
Location
Beaufort, NC
Launches from Beaufort harbor
Tours Offered
3 Cruises
Fireworks, Sunset, Wild Horse
Typical Length
45–60 min
Wild Horse cruise duration
Captain-led
Narrated Trips
Local friendly captains guide
Reserve a seat on a narrated Sunset, Fireworks, or Wild Horse cruise — small groups, local captains, unforgettable coastal sights.
Bring Your Own Drinks
Guests are welcome to bring beverages to enjoy during the cruise—pack responsibly and keep it eco-friendly.
Wear Layers
Evenings can be cool on the water, so a light jacket or pullover is recommended.
Arrive Early for Parking
Be sure to arrive a bit early to secure convenient parking near the dock.
Keep Binoculars Handy
Binoculars can enhance wildlife viewing, especially for spotting wild horses and birds offshore.
Light Jacket or Pullover
Spring evenings can be chilly; layering keeps you comfortable during the cruise.
spring
Sun Hat
Protect yourself from the setting sun during early parts of the trip.
summer
Waterproof Footwear
Ideal for any dock or boat boarding areas that may be damp or slippery.
fall
Binoculars
Enhance your viewing of dolphins, horses, and birds during the cruise.