Spend two relaxed hours aboard the 44' catamaran Bella, cruising Wrightsville Beach waterways at sunset with cocktails, local insights, and views of Masonboro Island. Ideal for families and visitors wanting an easy, scenic evening on the water.
Spend two relaxed hours aboard the 44' catamaran Bella, cruising Wrightsville Beach waterways at sunset with cocktails, local insights, and views of Masonboro Island. Ideal for families and visitors wanting an easy, scenic evening on the water.
The sun leans low over the Intracoastal, and the catamaran’s rigging hums as Bella eases away from the dock. Salty air pushes against your jacket, gulls wheel above, and the marshes of Wrightsville Beach darken into bands of orange and purple. For two hours you’ll drift through the ICW, skirt wild marshes, and — if the swell is calm — slip out past the inlet to view Masonboro Island’s eight miles of unbroken sand.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Bella Catamaran Charters · Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina
The sun leans low over the Intracoastal, and the catamaran’s rigging hums as Bella eases away from the dock. Salty air pushes against your jacket, gulls wheel above, and the marshes of Wrightsville Beach darken into bands of orange and purple. For two hours you’ll drift through the ICW, skirt wild marshes, and — if the swell is calm — slip out past the inlet to view Masonboro Island’s eight miles of unbroken sand.
This stretch of North Carolina coast is geologically young: barrier islands formed by shifting currents and storms, with Masonboro Island a protected reserve that shelters nesting birds and sea turtles. Wilmington’s maritime culture rides these waters — commercial fishing, recreational sailing and a history of coastal trade shape the local stories the crew will share.
Expect a relaxed, social cruise rather than a vigorous sail. Crew serve Caribbean-inspired cocktails, mocktails and bottled water while pointing out dolphins, great blue herons and waterfront landmarks. Children 12 and under must wear life jackets; adults should bring ID for alcohol service.
Practical notes: arrive 15–20 minutes early to board smoothly, secure loose items, and stow cameras in a waterproof pocket if you want sunset shots. Dress in layers; the temperature can drop quickly after sunset and wind makes evenings feel cooler.
Timing matters — summer evenings are busy and calm, while spring and fall can bring brisk winds. If prone to seasickness, take precautions before boarding. Tip the crew if they’ve made your sunset memorable — they handle the lines, the drinks, and the local insights that make this short sail feel like an escape.
easy.
2 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires ability to step on/off a dock and stand for portions of the cruise
The boarding location is across the street from Trailborn Surf and Sound (formerly Blockade Runner Beach Resort) on Wrightsville Beach; check your ticket for exact directions.
Cocktails, mocktails, soda and bottled water are served but may be included or offered a la carte depending on the operator — verify when booking.
Yes; children and infants are allowed. Children 12 and under must wear life jackets provided by the crew and should be supervised at all times.
Possibly — if swell and conditions are calm the captain may sail out the inlet; otherwise the cruise stays within the ICW and marsh waterways for a smoother ride.
Wrightsville Beach grew as a recreational town in the 20th century as Wilmington’s residents and visitors turned to sailing and beach culture; the ICW and local inlets have long shaped livelihoods here.
Masonboro Island is a protected reserve; avoid disturbing nesting areas and follow crew guidance to minimize wake and wildlife impact.
Bella Catamaran Charters operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




The sun leans low over the Intracoastal, and the catamaran’s rigging hums as Bella eases away from the dock. Salty air pushes against your jacket, gulls wheel above, and the marshes of Wrightsville Beach darken into bands of orange and purple. For two hours you’ll drift through the ICW, skirt wild marshes, and — if the swell is calm — slip out past the inlet to view Masonboro Island’s eight miles of unbroken sand.
The sun leans low over the Intracoastal, and the catamaran’s rigging hums as Bella eases away from the dock. Salty air pushes against your jacket, gulls wheel above, and the marshes of Wrightsville Beach darken into bands of orange and purple. For two hours you’ll drift through the ICW, skirt wild marshes, and — if the swell is calm — slip out past the inlet to view Masonboro Island’s eight miles of unbroken sand.
This stretch of North Carolina coast is geologically young: barrier islands formed by shifting currents and storms, with Masonboro Island a protected reserve that shelters nesting birds and sea turtles. Wilmington’s maritime culture rides these waters — commercial fishing, recreational sailing and a history of coastal trade shape the local stories the crew will share.
Expect a relaxed, social cruise rather than a vigorous sail. Crew serve Caribbean-inspired cocktails, mocktails and bottled water while pointing out dolphins, great blue herons and waterfront landmarks. Children 12 and under must wear life jackets; adults should bring ID for alcohol service.
Practical notes: arrive 15–20 minutes early to board smoothly, secure loose items, and stow cameras in a waterproof pocket if you want sunset shots. Dress in layers; the temperature can drop quickly after sunset and wind makes evenings feel cooler.
Timing matters — summer evenings are busy and calm, while spring and fall can bring brisk winds. If prone to seasickness, take precautions before boarding. Tip the crew if they’ve made your sunset memorable — they handle the lines, the drinks, and the local insights that make this short sail feel like an escape.