Discover the Charm of a Private Boat Tour from Wrightsville Beach
Imagine gliding through calm waters aboard a luxurious 31-foot Chaparral boat, with the sun warming your skin and the scent of salty air filling your senses. This private boat charter, offered by Awesome Adventures Boat Charters, takes you on a 5-hour journey through the Intracoastal Waterway, visiting the pristine Masonboro Island Reserve and exploring the beautiful waterfront homes of Wrightsville Beach. For just $900 per group (up to 6 people), this experience promises a personalized, relaxed way to enjoy the coast, with the kind of intimacy and flexibility that larger tours simply can’t match.
Two things we particularly love about this tour are the customization options and the stunning scenery. The itinerary is flexible—your captain can tailor stops and activities to suit your group’s interests, whether that’s relaxing on the sandbar, exploring scenic waterways, or simply soaking in the views. Plus, the onboard amenities—restroom, WiFi, stereo system—mean comfort and convenience are built into the experience.
One consideration is the price, which might seem steep for some travelers, but when you factor in the private nature, personalized service, and exclusive access to beautiful spots, it offers significant value. This tour is best suited for families, friends, or small groups who want a more intimate, customizable day on the water with knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Only your group participates, making it flexible and private.
- Stunning Views: Cruising the Intracoastal Waterway and Masonboro Island offers postcard-perfect scenery.
- Comfort & Convenience: The boat is equipped with a restroom, WiFi, and stereo system.
- Great for Families: Customizable stops and a relaxed pace make it ideal for all ages.
- Expert Guidance: Guides like Captain Reggie are praised for their personable approach and local knowledge.
- Flexible Scheduling: Book most often 17 days in advance; cancellations are free up to 24 hours prior.
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An In-depth Look at the Tour Experience
The Vessel and Its Comforts
From the moment you step aboard the 31ft Chaparral Signature, you’ll notice its thoughtful design and comfort. The boat offers ample space for six guests, with cozy spots for snacks or simply lounging. The onboard restroom adds a layer of convenience that small boats often lack, making the trip more comfortable—especially for families with kids or older travelers. The stereo system lets you play your favorite tunes, creating a relaxed vibe, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a sunny day.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Stop 1: Masonboro Island Reserve
The highlight of this trip is the visit to Masonboro Island Reserve, a protected area often dubbed the most beautiful beach in the Wilmington region. Your captain will navigate through the Intracoastal Waterway, providing you with breathtaking views of the winding waterways and waterfront mansions of Wrightsville Beach, which are often pointed out by guides like Captain Reggie, who is lauded for his knowledgeable and personable nature.
Once anchored at Masonboro Island, you’ll have the opportunity to relax on the sand, explore the shallow waters, or enjoy a picnic on the beach. The admission to Masonboro Island is free, making it a natural, unspoiled setting perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or shell collecting. One reviewer describes the experience as “beautiful day and boat,” emphasizing how the scenery elevates the entire trip.
Surrounding Area Exploration
Beyond Masonboro, the cruise includes a tour of the surrounding waterways and homes of Wrightsville Beach. You’ll cruise past luxurious waterfront properties, gaining a sense of local life, and observe how the waterways are integral to daily life for residents. Captain Reggie is praised for “showing us a lot of different houses in inlets,” which adds a fascinating perspective to the trip.
Customization and Flexibility
One of the key advantages of this private tour is its customizable nature. According to reviews, guides are willing to adapt the itinerary based on weather conditions, group interests, and time constraints. For instance, even if the weather is less than ideal, guides like Reggie go out of their way to ensure a memorable experience, as one traveler shared, “He contacted me that morning to let me know and gave me a few options.”
This flexibility makes the tour suitable for various interests—whether you want to focus on relaxing, exploring, or engaging in water activities like tubing or grilling on the boat. The private setting also means your group can set the pace, making it an ideal choice for families or small groups seeking a laid-back, personal adventure.
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The Authentic Touch – Reviews from Satisfied Travelers
Multiple reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides and friendly service elevate the trip. Renee, for example, notes that the guide was “so personable and helpful,” transforming what could be a simple cruise into a memorable outing. Another traveler, Brian, mentioned that despite less-than-ideal weather, “Captain Reggie did an outstanding job,” which speaks volumes about the professionalism and adaptability of the crew.
Families have felt particularly welcomed, with one describing it as a “core memory family boat day,” and another praising the captain’s treating guests like family. These authentic, heartfelt reviews underscore the tour’s focus on creating genuine, personalized experiences rather than just selling a cookie-cutter cruise.
The Practical Details
The cost of $900 for up to 6 people might seem on the higher side for some, especially when compared to larger group tours, but the private nature and luxury amenities provide notable value. The tour includes fuel, WiFi, and a private boat, which means no crowds, no shared experiences—just your group and the captain.
Timing-wise, most travelers book about 17 days in advance, so planning ahead is advisable if you want to secure your preferred date. Cancellations are flexible—full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance—helping you plan without worry.
Who Is This Tour Perfect For?
This tour is ideal for families, small groups of friends, or couples looking for an intimate, scenic day on the water. It’s especially suited for those interested in local scenery, waterfront architecture, and unspoiled beaches. If you value personalized service and want a trip tailored to your interests, this tour offers the kind of flexibility that larger, impersonal tours can’t match.
The Sum Up
A private boat trip from Wrightsville Beach to Masonboro Island offers a wonderful balance of scenic beauty, personalized service, and relaxed fun. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful surroundings make it a memorable way to experience the coast without the crowds or commercial feel of larger tours. Whether you’re a family wanting to relax and explore, or a couple seeking a romantic getaway, this experience provides a special view of this stunning region.
While it’s priced higher than some group activities, the private nature, comfort, and flexibility make it a worthwhile investment for those craving a tailored, authentic day on the water. It’s especially recommended for travelers who appreciate local insight, scenic cruising, and a friendly, professional crew.
This tour captures the essence of Carolina’s coast—beautiful, welcoming, and full of surprises—and real travelers agree it’s a bright spot in their vacation. If these qualities appeal to you, it’s worth booking ahead for a day you won’t forget.
FAQ
How many people can participate in this tour?
Up to 6 guests can join, making it a perfect size for an intimate and flexible experience.
What is included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, fuel, WiFi, onboard stereo system, and restroom facilities—everything needed for a comfortable trip.
Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, the tour is private and can be tailored to your group’s interests and weather conditions, including stops at Masonboro Island and local waterways.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. This offers peace of mind in case plans change.
What should I bring?
Bring snacks, beverages, sun protection, and any personal items you wish. The boat has plenty of space for your gear.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Absolutely, families with children praise the experience as relaxed and engaging, with plenty of scenic and safe areas to explore.
How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 17 days before the experience, so early planning is recommended, especially in peak seasons.
What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll be offered a full refund or a different date, ensuring your safety and enjoyment.