Wine Tasting And Boat Ride

A Detailed Look at the Wine Tasting and Boat Ride Experience in the Outer Banks

When you think of the Outer Banks, images of windswept beaches, historic lighthouses, and relaxed coastal charm come to mind. But if you’re eager to add a touch of elegance and local flavor to your trip, the Wine Tasting and Boat Ride offers a unique blend of scenic water travel and sophisticated wine appreciation. For $109 per person, you’ll spend about 2.5 hours exploring the waters of Currituck Sound, crossing from Duck to Sanctuary Vineyards, and sampling some of the best wines the region has to offer.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the combination of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery. We love the way the boat ride offers a different perspective of the Outer Banks—the wide-open sound, waterfowl, and marshland are visually stunning and provide a peaceful contrast to the busy beaches. Plus, the private wine tasting at Sanctuary Vineyards allows for an intimate look at local winemaking, guided by knowledgeable staff who appreciate sharing their craft.

However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The weather plays a big role—if wind or storms interfere, the boat ride could be canceled, which some travelers have found frustrating, especially if they aren’t informed promptly. The group size, capped at 14 travelers, keeps things manageable but might feel crowded during peak times. This tour suits those who enjoy scenic outdoor activities combined with a relaxed, educational wine experience—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone curious about North Carolina’s emerging wine scene.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride across Currituck Sound provides beautiful water views and a sense of tranquility.
• Private wine tasting at Sanctuary Vineyards offers insight into local winemaking and a chance to purchase wines.
• The small group size enhances interaction and a personal experience.
• Weather-dependent cancellation means the experience can be canceled for safety reasons, but refunds are straightforward.
• The tour includes transportation on an air-conditioned vehicle, adding comfort to the experience.
• Booking flexibility allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.

An In-Depth Review of the Experience

Starting Out: Scenic Departure from Duck

The tour kicks off from a convenient meeting point at 1226 Duck Rd, Kitty Hawk, where you’ll hop onto a boat that crosses the water to Sanctuary Vineyards. The boat ride is a highlight in itself—imagine gliding across Currituck Sound with the wind in your hair and the distant calls of waterfowl. The waterway views alone make it worth the price, especially if you’re a fan of nature or photography.

This part of the experience takes about 30 minutes, and you’ll get a feel for the Outer Banks’ coastal beauty from a different vantage point. It’s a peaceful journey that sets the tone for the relaxing afternoon ahead.

Arrival at Sanctuary Vineyards: Behind-the-Scenes Tour and Tasting

Once ashore, you’ll board an air-conditioned van to reach Sanctuary Vineyards, a site located amidst farmland and waterfowl habitats that date back to the 1800s. The setting is picturesque—rows of vines stretching over 33 acres, surrounded by marshes and agricultural fields.

Here, the winery tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the vine-to-glass process, which can be particularly fascinating if you’re a wine enthusiast. You’ll have the chance to smell French oak barrels and learn how local vintners craft their wines. The private tasting includes a selection of Sanctuary Vineyards’ best offerings, allowing you to sample and appreciate their unique flavor profiles.

Why We Love the Winery Stop

The reviews highlight that this portion of the tour feels “pretty fancy,” with some travelers noting it was a first-time wine tasting experience that felt quite special. It’s a chance to learn about local winemaking traditions and to see a working vineyard up close.

Free Time and Shopping

After the tasting, you’ll have some time to browse the vineyard shop, where you can purchase bottles to take home. This flexibility helps you savor the experience afterward—imagine enjoying a glass of local wine back at your accommodation, reminiscing about the scenic boat ride.

Return Trip: Waterway Views and Reflection

The journey back to Duck is on the same boat, giving you the opportunity to reflect on the day. Many travelers mention that the water views and tranquil environment make this a memorable conclusion. It’s a relaxing way to end a day of exploration, with the added bonus of sharing the experience with fellow travelers.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who appreciate scenic outdoor activities combined with a relaxed, educational approach to local culture. If you enjoy small-group settings and discovering regional wines, you’ll find this tour quite rewarding. It’s especially appealing for those who want a break from busy beaches and prefer a more tranquil, intimate experience.

However, be aware that the weather can impact the boat ride—if strong winds or storms develop, the boat portion might be canceled. While the tour provider does offer refunds for cancellations due to weather, some travelers in the past have expressed frustration over communication delays when cancellations happen unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Considering the price point of $109, this tour offers a solid value for its mix of scenic views, educational winery experience, and the opportunity to purchase local wines. The small group size allows for personalized attention, and the water vistas provide a calming backdrop that elevates the entire experience.

It’s ideal for visitors who enjoy a blend of nature and culture, especially if you’re curious about the emerging wine scene in North Carolina. While weather concerns are valid, the overall experience delivers a memorable outing that combines a bit of adventure with a touch of sophistication.

If you’re seeking a quiet, scenic cruise paired with an authentic wine tasting—this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since alcoholic beverages are only available to those over 21, this tour isn’t appropriate for children. However, the boat ride itself might appeal to families with older kids interested in nature and water views.

What is included in the price?
The $109 fee covers the boat ride to Sanctuary Vineyards, the wine tasting at the vineyard, and transportation on an air-conditioned vehicle. No additional fees are mentioned, but you can purchase wines after the tasting.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including the boat ride, vineyard visit, tasting, and shopping time.

What happens if the weather cancels the tour?
If weather conditions pose safety concerns, the boat ride can be canceled. Refunds are provided if cancellation occurs due to weather, but communication delays in past reviews suggest you might need to stay proactive about updates.

Are there any group size limitations?
Yes, the tour caps at 14 travelers, which helps create a more intimate atmosphere and better interaction with guides.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Shorter notice cancellations are not eligible for refunds.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation on an air-conditioned vehicle is included. The tour departs from Duck and returns to the same point.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor water travel is recommended. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially in the warmer months. A camera is also a good idea.

In the end, the Wine Tasting and Boat Ride in the Outer Banks is a gentle, scenic experience that pairs waterborne views with an authentic taste of North Carolina’s wine scene. While weather can be a wild card, when conditions are right, it’s a well-balanced outing that offers a different perspective on this beloved coastal region.