North Carolina by Yacht

If you're looking for a perfect vacation, there's no better place than to cruise along the North Carolina coastline on a yacht.

The state has more than five thousand miles of waters that are perfect for cruising. It has a multitude of ports to explore, including Wilmington, New Bern, Beaufort, Southport, and Oriental.

Oriental

This fishing town, on the Neuse River, offers year-round sailing. It also has plenty of marinas and waterfront vistas.

This small, salty community entices passing sailors for decades. With 900 permanent residents and 2,700 boats, it's a popular stop on the East Coast for cruising sailors.

The town's marina is a popular destination for yacht charters, as it offers beautiful views of the river and the surrounding area.

Many of the charters provide an incredible adventure, with luxurious amenities and experienced crew members that know the waters like the back of their hands. The charters also offer an array of activities, from deep sea fishing to sightseeing cruises.

For sailing enthusiasts, there are also many opportunities for learning at the tiller. Those who are looking for a more hands-on experience should visit the Oriental School of Sailing. They hold lessons twice a week.

There are also boating-related events, such as the annual Tarpon Tournament. Oriental has some of the best sailing in the Eastern United States, so it's no surprise that this town attracts cruising sailors.

In addition to its great sailing, Oriental, NC has a wide variety of shops, including marine supply stores. You can also find a variety of restaurants, from fine dining to coffee houses.

Sailing is one of Oriental's most renowned attractions, but there are plenty of other activities. You can catch a glimpse of the local wildlife at Cape Lookout National Seashore. There are several parks in the area. These include Lupton Park, which features entertainment for children and adults alike.

Wilmington

Wilmington is the perfect place to explore the Carolina coast by yacht.

With its picturesque harbor, charming downtown district, and nearby beaches, there's plenty of reason to plan a yachting excursion along this stretch of shoreline.

When planning your yacht adventure in Wilmington, you'll want to keep an eye out for popular attractions like the USS North Carolina battleship, the beaches at Wrightsville and Carolina Beach, and the nearby Bald Head Island.

While exploring these places, you can also enjoy some of Wilmington's unique cuisine as well as its rich cultural heritage.

If you're looking for a more leisurely excursion, why not take one of the many cruises that depart from the Wilmington waterfront?

You can choose from a range of cruises, including dinner cruises, sightseeing tours, and even private charters. Whether you're looking for a romantic date night or a family adventure, there's plenty to do when you take to the seas in Wilmington.

Wilmington Cuisine

Wilmington's unique cuisine is a mix of influences from all around the world, with many restaurants offering delicious seafood dishes as well as Italian, Asian, and Latin American fare.

The city's thriving restaurant scene also features some of the most innovative chefs in the region, who are creating exciting new flavors to tantalize taste buds. With its close proximity to both farms and beaches, the city's restaurants are able to offer fresh ingredients from local sources.

Whether you're looking for a casual meal or an elegant affair, Wilmington has something to offer everyone. And with its vibrant nightlife and array of attractions, it's easy to see why so many people come to experience the best of what Wilmington has to offer.

Here are some of best restaurants Wilmington NC has to offer:

Indochine - this pan-Asian restaurant serves delicious dishes from Thailand, Vietnam, Korea, and more. Featuring an extensive menu of seafood and vegetarian options, it's the perfect spot for an exotic meal out.

Domaine Hudson - this chic bistro offers a twist on classic American cuisine. Their menu changes regularly, but expect to find dishes like roasted chicken with porcini mushrooms and applewood-smoked bacon.

Firebelly Lounge - this cozy gastropub specializes in elevated comfort food and craft beer. Enjoy a rotation of seasonal dishes as well as tasty bar snacks like pimento cheese and wings.

Washington Street Ale House - this pub is a great spot to grab a pint and some delicious pub grub like fish tacos, burgers, and mussels.

Trolley Square Oyster House - get your seafood fix here with dishes like oysters Rockefeller and shrimp scampi. They also have an extensive selection of craft beers and wines.

Beaufort

It is a popular destination for water activities. There are several marinas and a variety of water tours available. Whether you want to take a cruise or go for a walk along the waterfront, you can do so in Beaufort.

A charming waterfront town, is the perfect stop for yacht lovers visiting North Carolina. Its protected harbor offers easy access to the nearby barrier islands and pristine beaches.

Guests can also enjoy the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year. For a more active experience, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the wildlife on the nearby islands with kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, and fishing.

Beyond Beaufort, charter a yacht to explore the Crystal Coast, where visitors can experience the beauty of the Outer Banks and cruise through quaint coastal towns like New Bern and Southport. With over 200 miles of shoreline and more than 10,000 islands to explore, this region is a paradise for boating enthusiasts.

The waterways are lined with gorgeous waterfront homes and pristine beaches that can be enjoyed from the boat or while taking a leisurely stroll along the shore. No matter what activity you choose, make sure to take in the beauty of North Carolina by yacht.

Beaufort is also a great place to visit for a pirate festival, held each August. Blackbeard frequently stayed in a house in Beaufort, which is now a private residence. Many pirate aficionados come to Beaufort each year to see the house.

Southport

This quaint and authentic coastal town offers lots of waterways to explore and a variety of waterfront attractions.

There are several marinas to choose from if you want to dock your boat. And if you don't own a vessel of your own, you can hire a captain to take you on a tour of the area.

A yacht is the obvious choice for this town, but there are other options. You can hire a charter for a tour of the region or go on a scuba diving excursion. These can be done in advance, and they cover a wide variety of areas. You can even check out some secret fishing holes!

The Cape Fear River meets the Atlantic Ocean at Southport. It's at the heart of the Intracoastal Waterway. As a result, the town is a very convenient and safe destination for mariners.

There are several marinas located around the area, many of which are within walking distance of the town's best attractions. In addition, the town's slick waterfront features shops, restaurants, and more.

The town also features a Maritime Museum, which is worth checking out. The museum has a number of exhibits, including one about the local history of the town.

In addition, there is a Southport Wooden Boat Show that takes place every year at the Old Yacht Basin. There are also plenty of other fun and educational events to keep you busy.

Southport is the perfect spot to visit if you are planning to do a cruise along the ICW. The town is at the intersection of several waterways, so it's a good pit stop if you're doing a multi-day expedition.

New Bern

The city is surrounded by the Neuse River and the Intracoastal Waterway. It's also close to the Atlantic and the Pamlico Sound.

Boating is an activity that you can enjoy year-round in New Bern, North Carolina. There are several public boat ramps, including the Flanners Beach Recreation Area. If you don't have your own vessel, you can go on a charter trip. These tours are popular and can be booked in advance.

In addition to the ICW, you can take a tour of the Trent River. This river flows through the southern part of New Bern. Tours take you on a 90-minute adventure that takes you through the river's history. You will encounter wildlife and historical points of interest.

For a more rustic experience, you can charter a tugboat or sailboat. Downtown New Bern is home to numerous sailing and cruise companies. Take a guided paddle or embark on a sightseeing tour of the downtown area.

There are also many marinas in the New Bern area. Many offer on-site services, gas, and marine supplies. They can accommodate any type of traveler, from transient to full-time mariners. Several marinas are located near the Neuse River and the Trent River.

There are also a number of fishing charters available. During the prime summertime, fishing is particularly good. You can catch a variety of blue fish, tuna, and flounder. Also, you'll find crappie, bass, and bluegills.

New Bern is also known for its tasty southern food. Whether you're in the mood for cheesy grits or fresh caught fish, you can find a restaurant to satisfy your palate. Some of the best restaurants include Morgan's Café and Bern Bar & Grill.

Final Word

Exploring the North Carolina coast by yacht is a fabulous way to experience the beauty of this unique region. From the Outer Banks and Cape Lookout National Seashore to historic ports and quaint villages, there are many wonderful places to explore.

The waters of North Carolina provide ample opportunities for fishing, sailing, kayaking, and other water sports. With its mild climate and beautiful scenery, North Carolina is an excellent choice for a relaxing yacht charter experience.

Whether you want to explore the coastline or relax in a secluded bay, you will find plenty of places to explore the beauty of this coastal area.