hours ashore on average
Ships typically dock in Wilmington NC for around — hours. That's enough time for a full island tour, a beach day, or a combination of shorter experiences.

Tours & Experiences in Wilmington NC

30 experiences available — book through our trusted partners

Sailing Charters in Wilmington
Sailing Charters in Wilmington
★★★★★ 5.0 (202 reviews) ⏱️ 2.0h
After a successful first three seasons I am happy to be here for a fourth season!!! Sail in style on the historic Wilmington river walk. Enjoy a personalized Charter experience with up to six guests. Very few sailboats are up for public charters and this can be your chance to feel the thrill of sailing on the largest/fastest and most roomy charter sailboat on the Wilmington Waterfront. Breathtaking views and exciting action awaits.
Free cancellation VIATOR
The Escape Game Concord: 60-Minute Adventures at Concord Mills
The Escape Game Concord: 60-Minute Adventures at Concord Mills
★★★★★ 5.0 (148 reviews) ⏱️ 1.2h
Our location at Concord Mills is right by countless eating and retail options, perfect for pairing an escape room with a day or night out. Some of our fave places to eat include On The Border and Razzoo's Cajun Cafe. The Escape Game Concord features 5 unique themes including The Depths, one of our newest escape rooms, and Prison Break, our most challenging game. Each family-friendly option includes multiple rooms and can hold up to 8 players, except for Playground, which can hold up to 12 players. These adventures offer a one-of-a-kind premium experience. Follow clues and solve puzzles to complete your mission together. We offer the best escape rooms and the fastest customer support. Come see why our escape rooms win awards.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Privately Guided Half Day Hike
Privately Guided Half Day Hike
★★★★★ 5.0 (147 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
Whether you want to see waterfalls, wildflowers, enjoy a quiet walk on a forested path, or climb a 6,000 foot peak, we will customize these trips based on your desired distance, difficulty, and destination. After booking, our office will contact you to discuss your preferences. Hike will meet our office in downtown Asheville at 8:30am, and will last approximately 4-5 hours including transportation time. Snacks are included, but transportation is not. Transportation between Asheville and the trailhead (including hotel pickup) can be added for an additional fee. Your guide can provide trekking poles upon request at no additional charge. We hike rain or shine! Hikers should arrive prepared for all weather conditions and pack a rain jacket, an extra warm layer, and water. We may cancel or reschedule your hike in the event of severe or dangerous weather conditions. Curious about the other hikes we offer? Check out our website!
Free cancellation VIATOR
THE Wilmington History, Haunts & Breweries E-Bike Tour (4 hr)
THE Wilmington History, Haunts & Breweries E-Bike Tour (4 hr)
★★★★★ 5.0 (122 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
This Family Friendly tour is operated by Wilmington Bike & Brew Tours here in Wilmington, NC. Be sure to check out our reviews here on Trip Advisor and also on Google. Search for us on Google Maps to find our reviews. Experience historic Wilmington, NC, and its historic & haunted sites by E-Bike while sampling Wilmington Craft Breweries. Sample some of the best craft beer on the coast! Each E-bike tour will include stops at multiple historic and significant sites throughout downtown and beyond! This tour is the perfect balance of history, interesting and haunted stories making it popular with solo travelers, couples, families with kids, and groups alike. Spend the day cruising around town on an electric bike checking out the Wilmington scene, and sample a beverage or two. Whether you’re just visiting or you’re a local looking for an adventure, our E-Bike Tour highlighting the culture and history of Wilmington is a fun and popular activity for people looking for a unique adventure!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Explore Asheville on E Bike
Explore Asheville on E Bike
★★★★★ 5.0 (43 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
(We have switched to electric bikes! Please be advised!) No longer segway. Now electric bikes! What makes this tour unique is you have the ability to be at the eye level of someone walking, but you will see 10 times more of the city in comparison. Segways are a fun way to move around and see all that Asheville has to offer. We see all the sites in Asheville! The river arts district. Montford, Greenways, The south slope brewing district and more!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Raleigh Guided E-Bike Tour: Tacos, Margaritas, and History
Raleigh Guided E-Bike Tour: Tacos, Margaritas, and History
★★★★★ 5.0 (39 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Triangle Adventures is excited to announce in 2026 we have launched something new on our tours: AI-powered digital video! This will allow stories to be told from the perspective of the actual historical figure, creating a wildly immersive experience like nothing else out there. See, hear and feel their personal story in their own voice... It's like stepping into the past. What's a Triangle Adventures tour like? Ride through town and on the smooth NC Greenway trail with fun and interesting stops along the way. Expect to learn about local heroes, NASCAR origins, moonshining, native tribes, Neuse River, milling towns, play alcohol trivia, and lots more! Plus, authentic street tacos and fresh-squeezed margaritas are included! ** Non-alcoholic and vegetarian substitutions available. ** Enjoy the outdoors, laugh and make memories! And don't worry about the pedaling, the e-bike does all the work for you! Want to save money? Book directly on our website to save on fees.
Free cancellation VIATOR
French Broad River Kayak Tour in Asheville
French Broad River Kayak Tour in Asheville
★★★★★ 5.0 (29 reviews) ⏱️ 2.5h
Semi-Private guided tour with certified naturalist kayaking through the city of Asheville on the serene French Broad River. Includes peak-a-boo views of the Biltmore Mansion and Estate.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Historic Music Scene Walking Tour in Asheville
Historic Music Scene Walking Tour in Asheville
★★★★★ 5.0 (28 reviews) ⏱️ 2.0h
Explore Asheville’s Music Scene! Yesterday and Today! We will tell you about Asheville’s connections to members of national and regional Music Halls of Fame. You will learn the local venues for national touring acts, as well as, the spots for our area’s amazing local talent! We will discover Asheville’s historic Grove Arcade, Citizen-Times Building (AKA Citizens Vinyl) and the Flatiron Building. Learn about Asheville’s historic connection to the early days of America’s radio and record industries. After an informative walk around our historic city, the tour will finish at Asheville’s famous Moogseum: A first rate museum to Bob Moog and his historic Moog Synthesizers. Discount tickets will be available to continue your tour with the good folks at the Moogseum. A must see for all serious musicians!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Queen’s City Black Legacy Walking Tour
Queen’s City Black Legacy Walking Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (27 reviews) ⏱️ 2.0h
Welcome to Charlotte, North Carolina, better known as the "Queen City". Come and explore this beautiful city and learn about the Queen of African and mixed heritage from which the city was named. See the sites of a once historic thriving Black neighborhood and come to understand how African Americans were critical in building the city and the wealth tied to it.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Smoky Mountain Elk & Waterfall Jeep Tour
Smoky Mountain Elk & Waterfall Jeep Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (26 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
• Guided safari-style Jeep tour through Great Smoky Mountains National Park • Scenic Blue Ridge Parkway adventure through 5 historic mountain tunnels • 20+ mile mountain views from elevations over a mile high • Panoramic overlooks across Cherokee and deep into the Smokies • 99% elk sighting success rate on PM Elk Tours • Explore prime elk and wildlife habitat • Possible sightings of elk, deer, wild turkey, black bears, and more • Visit 120-foot Mingo Falls on the Qualla Boundary • Explore historic Occonaluftee Baptist Church and local legends • Scenic drive across Soco Gap at 4,340 feet elevation • Guided by local Cherokee & Appalachian descendant guides • Authentic Smoky Mountain storytelling and history • Incredible scenic and wildlife photography opportunities • Small-group open-air safari Jeep experience
Free cancellation VIATOR
Forest Bathing & Nature Therapy Walk
Forest Bathing & Nature Therapy Walk
★★★★★ 5.0 (25 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Forest Bathing is the simple practice of walking slowly through the forest, connecting with the environment with all senses rather than rushing to a destination. Enjoy the magic along the way! I invite you to breathe deep and pause long enough to notice the gentle breeze on your skin, the sounds of the forest, and your busy mind relaxing its pace. Studies show that time in nature offers physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits that linger even after you've left the trail behind. A guided forest therapy walk is a unique avenue to unlocking these benefits. Hope to see you on the trail soon!
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Half-Day Tour With Instruction in Vistas & Waterfall Photography
Half-Day Tour With Instruction in Vistas & Waterfall Photography
★★★★★ 5.0 (25 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
All photo tours include hands-on coaching and instruction to help you improve your photos both artistically and technically. Most tours include two guides, a husband and wife team who are skilled, award-winning Nature & Fine Art photographers. You get lots of personal attention and guidance, and tours are customized to the types of photography and natural locations that interest you the most.
Free cancellation VIATOR
One Tree Hill Superfan E-Bike Tour (4hr)
One Tree Hill Superfan E-Bike Tour (4hr)
★★★★★ 5.0 (23 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
"There is only One Tree Hill, and it's your home!" - Karen One Tree Hill lives on here in Wilmington, NC. In a collaboration with TRIC & FWB Charity Events, we are now offering E-Bike tours of the most famous One Tree Hill shooting sites around downtown Wilmington and beyond. After we meet, we move on to visit places like Brook Davis's house, Nathan's House, Clothes over Bros, the site of the Leyton Wedding, The Cracker Jack Table...and much more! Enjoy a guided tour through Wilmington on our effortless E-Bikes as we relive so many OTH moments together! This tour lasts about 4 hours and includes lunch and one or two beverage/bathroom stops! I will take pictures for the group throughout the tour, and share all photos through a google photos folder, and we may even have a couple props along with us to enhance the experience!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Raleigh Guided E-Bike Tour: Burgers, Cocktails, History
Raleigh Guided E-Bike Tour: Burgers, Cocktails, History
★★★★★ 5.0 (22 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Hear the stories your history teacher skipped. Explore Wilmington's most infamous crimes, bizarre legends, forgotten scandals, and strange local history as you explore Historic Downtown, Greenfield Lake, the Cargo District, and other unforgettable stops. After check-in and a brief safety tutorial, we will do quick orientation rides so everyone feels comfortable on the bikes. From there, the group begins an easy ride on the Connector Bike Trail to Forest Hills, then toward Historic Downtown, Greenfield Lake, the Cargo District, and back to the starting point. Along the way, expect stories about a radical social experiment gone wrong, unsolved murder mysteries, a local Civil War spy, local unsung heroes, and a few weird and wild surprises. Google us, and check out our 5 star Google Reviews. Get ready for a fun time!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Wrightsville Beach Sunset Cocktail Sail
Wrightsville Beach Sunset Cocktail Sail
★★★★★ 5.0 (20 reviews) ⏱️ 2.0h
Relax aboard our 44' catamaran Bella on this evening sail. Enjoy a Caribbean-inspired cocktail while you cruise our local waterways and watch the sunset. Wind permitting, we'll turn off the engines and enjoy the beauty of sailing! There is little that can compare to a sunset sail around NC's barrier islands and marshlands at sunset. 2 hours aboard Bella is the perfect way to wind down and end your summer day. The experienced captain and crew will ensure you have an enjoyable time, serving drinks, offering local insight into the area, and snapping a few memorable family photos if you'd like. For locals, this is a great cruise to explore your own backyard or show out-of-town guests the best of Wrightsville Beach!
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Customizable Private Day Trips out of Asheville
Customizable Private Day Trips out of Asheville
★★★★★ 5.0 (19 reviews) ⏱️ 6.0h
Outta Asheville specializes in curating unforgettable private tours for your family or small group, that transport you beyond the vibrant heart of Asheville, North Carolina, into the hidden treasures of its charming outskirts. Our intimate tours offer a personalized experience, inviting you to explore the quaint allure of nearby small towns. We want you to feel like you came to visit a friend that will take you to see the local sights you will love. We can customize the day to fit your needs with a variety of locations to choose from. These tours are for up to five guests, ages 12+.
Free cancellation VIATOR
4 hour - 16 Person Pontoon Rental in Nags Head
4 hour - 16 Person Pontoon Rental in Nags Head
★★★★★ 5.0 (18 reviews) ⏱️ 2.0h
Embark on the ultimate Outer Banks adventure with a pontoon boat rental in Nags Head! Perfect for families, friends, and groups, this activity blends relaxation, exploration, and fun into one unforgettable day. Cruise the scenic Outer Banks coastline, fish in prime spots, or anchor at a secluded cove to swim, sunbathe, or enjoy a picnic surrounded by natural beauty. Our modern pontoon boats are designed for your comfort and convenience, featuring bimini shade tops for sun protection, GPS navigation for easy exploration, Bluetooth stereos for your favorite tunes, and plenty of space to relax. Keep an eye out for dolphins and other wildlife as you soak in the stunning OBX views. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or an exciting outdoor adventure, a Nags Head pontoon boat rental is the perfect way to experience the Outer Banks. Create lasting memories on the water—book your rental today and start your OBX journey in style!
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Picnic Experience in the Queen City
Private Picnic Experience in the Queen City
★★★★★ 5.0 (18 reviews) ⏱️ 1.5h
The Private Picnic Experience is a great way to unplug, relax, and learn a little about the Queen City. It is the perfect addition to a stay or a wonderful way to explore what's right in your own backyard. We cordially invite you to spend a relaxing afternoon or evening at the park with breathtaking views of Uptown Charlotte while indulging in refreshing beverages. We also provide a variety of couples activities to help you relax and reconnect. This is a private experience. Only guests in your party will participate.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Historic Oakwood: History & Architecture Tour
Historic Oakwood: History & Architecture Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (17 reviews) ⏱️ 1.0h
Raleigh's historic Oakwood and North Blount neighborhoods are famous for their array of fascinating historic houses, displaying a multitude of historic architectural styles from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. Travel through Oakwood with a professional historian guide and experience the evolution of American architecture, from the elegant Second Empire style to the playful Queen Anne style and much more.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Durham African-American Historic Walking Tour
Durham African-American Historic Walking Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (16 reviews) ⏱️ 1.0h
Durham is a special site in the African American experience. The city served as a thriving hub of business and commerce, an economic refuge, and a symbol of progress. Visitors like W.E.B. DuBois and Booker T. Washington marveled at the city as a model for the black middle class, and it's no wonder why when you learn what Durham's African American population achieved: from the foundation of the largest black-owned company of the 20th Century to the formation of a brick-making juggernaut that physically built much of the city, and much, much more. Durham also hosts "Parrish Street", the best preserved "black business district" in the country, an attraction that leaves quite the impression. This tour is hosted by a local historian who wants to share his love of Durham's history with you. Travel between these sites and gain a new perspectives on the triumphs and challenges of Durham's history.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Blue Ridge Mtns Hiking Tour with the areas top rated trail expert
Blue Ridge Mtns Hiking Tour with the areas top rated trail expert
★★★★★ 5.0 (16 reviews) ⏱️ 5.0h
There are a number of beautiful places to visit and things to do while you are in Asheville, but your search is over. When you leave this area our goal is to make This experience the one you remember and enjoyed most! Our licensed LOCAL guides will take you to some of the best locations in the Blue Ridge Mountains and show you what makes this area so special. They live to be outside and love these mountains - and love showing what this great region has to offer. They will talk about the history, the mountains, the wildlife, flora, fauna and so much more. They might even tell some of the local secrets - like where to grab a beer or great food too! Hike will be 3-5 miles depending on the group, including a stop in front of a waterfall and maybe a small lake to see if the Bald Eagles are out. If we do not have at least 2-3 guests booked for the hike we may cancel.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Boutique Blue Ridge Parkway Full Day Tour
Private Boutique Blue Ridge Parkway Full Day Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (15 reviews) ⏱️ 6.0h
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Western North Carolina on this full-day private adventure along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway. Departing Asheville, we’ll head south into some of the highest scenery in the eastern United States, stopping at overlooks including Mount Pisgah, Looking Glass Rock, Cold Mountain, Graveyard Fields, Devil’s Courthouse, and Richland Balsam—the highest point on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Guests wanting adventure can choose the short optional hike to Devil’s Courthouse for panoramic views. Descending into Cherokee, we’ll visit the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, where elk are often spotted, and continue to beautiful Mingo Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the Southern Appalachians. We’ll also make scenic photo stops, including a charming mountain suspension bridge, before returning to Asheville through stunning mountain landscapes. As this is a private tour, the day is flexible and tailored to your group while we handle the driving.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Boone, NC Walking Food and History Tour
Boone, NC Walking Food and History Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (15 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Explore the vibrant streets of Boone, NC, on this guided walking food tour, where local cuisine meets rich history. Indulge in tastings from beloved restaurants, bakeries, and breweries showcasing the flavors of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Discover captivating stories of Appalachian folklore and traditions as you stroll through scenic downtown Boone. Perfect for foodies and curious travelers, this tour supports local businesses while offering a fun and flavorful journey through the heart of the town. - 3-hour tour with up to 10 delicious stops - Sample a variety of local dishes and beverages - Learn about Boone's history and community connections - Optional Sips upgrade available for alcoholic beverages
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Private Tarot Reading - For Groups or Solo Adventurers
Private Tarot Reading - For Groups or Solo Adventurers
★★★★★ 5.0 (15 reviews) ⏱️ 1.0h
Personalized, one-on-one attention within a group setting can be both nourishing and deeply meaningful. We come to you so there's no need to worry about getting out of the house on time! Note that locations more than 10 miles from downtown Asheville will incur an additional travel fee.
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The Badass Women of Old Wilmington: A Historic Walking Tour
The Badass Women of Old Wilmington: A Historic Walking Tour
★★★★★ 5.0 (14 reviews) ⏱️ 1.5h
On this entertaining and informative walking tour, you'll discover the women who challenged conventions, changed minds, and left an indelible mark on Wilmington's rich history. Their stories are courageous, surprising, inspiring, funny—and 100% true. 30-year-resident Steven S. Little has led more than 500 local tours in just the last 3 years. This tour goes well-beyond the familiar landmarks to uncover remarkable lives too often left out of the history books. Here are just some of the women you'll meet: The Spy and Her Final Voyage — A celebrated socialite risks everything for "the cause," but fate had other plans. The Woman Without a Name — An ordinary woman becomes an unwilling witness to the day Wilmington changed forever. The Two Elizabeths of the Port City — Two women from two different worlds become forever linked by one extraordinary mansion. The Undisputed World Champion - The remarkable woman who shattered barriers, capturing one of the world's most coveted titles.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Brewery Tour in a '72 VW Bus - Roadies Local
Private Brewery Tour in a '72 VW Bus - Roadies Local
★★★★★ 5.0 (14 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Your brew bus tour is fully customizable and private for up to 7 people. Cruise around Wilmington in a classic 1972 VW bus! This is a one of a kind brew bus tour in Wilmington, NC. The itinerary here is just a suggestion. We will pick you at your place in Wilmington, Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, or Kure Beach. Wilmington is home to 20 craft breweries, and counting! What better way to visit them than cruising around in a classic VW Bus? Step 1: After booking, we will contact you to confirm pick up location & start time. Example - your home, hotel, airbnb, or agreed upon location within Wilmington. Step 2 - Pick your stops. Need help? Let us recommend the stops and itinerary based on what you like or where you are staying. Step 3 - We pick you up and take you on your tour! We safely drop you back off at your final destination. Travel back in time in our vintage VW with custom interior and seating for 7. Hop on, and drink local.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Alligator River Refuge at Buffalo City
Alligator River Refuge at Buffalo City
★★★★★ 5.0 (13 reviews) ⏱️ 2.0h
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge provides habitat to an extensive list of over 300 living species. On our kayak tours, we get the chance to see a variety of birds like the Prothonotary Warblers, Wood Ducks, Northern Cardinals, Killdeer, and Pileated Wood Peckers. Oftentimes, we spot an alligator swimming in the distance or sunning on the shore. The refuge is also home to the largest concentration of black bears on the East Coast. Black Bears can sometimes be seen roaming or relaxing on land or climbing the trees.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Blacksmith Your Own Blade at a Historic Asheville Area Forge
Blacksmith Your Own Blade at a Historic Asheville Area Forge
★★★★★ 5.0 (13 reviews) ⏱️ 3.0h
Engage in a hands-on blacksmithing experience at a historic Appalachian forge led by Jeremy, a seventh-generation blacksmith with Viking roots back to Viking Rollo. This unique opportunity invites you to forge your own knife, dagger, or axe as you learn the art of shaping red-hot steel. With over 1,600 five-star reviews, Jeremy’s confident and patient guidance ensures that every participant, regardless of skill level, leaves with a masterpiece in hand. Create not just a weapon, but unforgettable memories as you immerse yourself in the craftsmanship of blacksmithing.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Asheville Street Art Gems of the South Slope Downtown
Asheville Street Art Gems of the South Slope Downtown
★★★★★ 5.0 (13 reviews) ⏱️ 1.0h
Creativity abounds in Asheville and our artists love to take to the streets. Join us on a colorful urban art tour of the South Slope of Downtown Asheville with an amazing collection of murals and street art installations. You’ll learn about the creators’ stories and inspirations, local history, and the community businesses of the South Slope that have made Asheville a national tourist destination.
Free cancellation VIATOR
Private Island Eco Tours on a Private Boat from Shackleford Banks
Private Island Eco Tours on a Private Boat from Shackleford Banks
★★★★★ 5.0 (12 reviews) ⏱️ 4.0h
Unlike the larger ferry boats on our private tours using smaller boats we have the ability to do so much more and stay away from the more crowded areas. Captain Chris is local to the area, having grown up here only leaving the area during his time in the US Navy. Since returning home he has been a full time fishing guide in the area for nearly 20 years spending 200+ days each year on the water. Not only do you get to see sought after areas and sights but, you’ll have an opportunity to “see it like a local, with a local!” Great beach areas, wildlife, sea life, fishing, cast netting, clamming, set a crap pot, photograph your adventure and so many more possibilities.
Free cancellation VIATOR

When to Visit Wilmington NC

Cruise season patterns based on scheduled ship visits and passenger volumes

Spring Season
Mar – May
654 estimated passengers across 4 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.
Autumn Season
Sep – Nov
1,774 estimated passengers across 11 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.

Cruise Lines Visiting Wilmington NC

3 cruise lines. View full breakdown →

American Cruise Lines Cruises (16) American Queen Voyages Cruises (10) Scenic Cruises Cruises (6)

Ships Arriving Soon

Next scheduled visits to Wilmington NC

Tue 6 Oct
Scenic Eclipse
Scenic Cruises Cruises
Sat 10 Oct
Scenic Eclipse
Scenic Cruises Cruises

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