Electric Catamaran in the Afternoon Light: Sailing the Roanoke Sound Aboard the Ellen Ripley

HAMPTON GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Electric Catamaran in the Afternoon Light: Sailing the Roanoke Sound Aboard the Ellen Ripley

A 2.5-hour afternoon cruise aboard Ellen Ripley, a 38‑ft all‑electric catamaran, exploring the Roanoke Sound with public and private charter options; this guide explains what to expect and what to bring.

Electric Catamaran in the Afternoon Light: Sailing the Roanoke Sound Aboard the Ellen Ripley.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Hampton
Operator
Native Island Sailing
Category
Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

On a 2.5-hour Afternoon Expedition from Hampton, you board Ellen Ripley, a 38-foot Maine Cat, and slip into the glassy channels of the Roanoke Sound. The vessel’s all‑electric, zero‑emissions propulsion lets the boat move with a quiet, deliberate hush, and the afternoon sun becomes the trip’s steady companion as you explore the sound and shoreline.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE BOAT

Ellen Ripley — a zero‑emissions catamaran

Ellen Ripley is a 38‑ft Maine Cat and operates as a first‑of‑its‑kind zero emissions, all‑electric charter powered by 100% renewable energy—an opportunity to sail with a minimal footprint.

THE ROUTE

Sailing the Roanoke Sound

The cruise explores the calm waters of the Roanoke Sound in the afternoon, offering a relaxed passage across coastal North Carolina’s sheltered waterways.

THE FORMAT

Flexible public or private charters

The Afternoon Expedition can be booked as a public charter—requiring a minimum party size to depart—or as a private charter for small groups who want exclusive use of the boat.

What the day feels like

What the Afternoon Feels Like

The outing is an easygoing, 2.5‑hour afternoon cruise: guests board and cross the Sound aboard the Ellen Ripley, soaking up sun and coastal views while the electric catamaran moves with a quiet hum. Options include joining a public sailing or booking the boat privately for a small group, and guests may bring their own refreshments to enjoy on board.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip suits — and who should consider alternatives.

1
Small groupsIdeal for groups seeking a private outing: private charters accommodate up to six people.
2
Public‑charter participantsThose joining a public sailing should note that a minimum number of participants is required for the charter to depart.
3
Families and mixed‑age groupsThe outing is described as suitable for all ages, making it appropriate for family groups with children and elders.
4
Solo travelers and pairsSolo travelers or pairs can join public charters when the minimum is met but should be aware that private bookings are limited to small groups.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Food and drinks are not provided; guests are welcome to bring their own refreshments for the cruise.

Duration

The expedition lasts 2.5 hours.

Booking

The cruise can be booked as a public charter (subject to a minimum to depart) or as a private charter for up to six people.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

How long is the Afternoon Expedition?

The cruise lasts 2.5 hours.

What vessel is used for the trip?

The trip sails aboard Ellen Ripley, a 38‑ft Maine Cat all‑electric catamaran.

How many people can join?

Public charters require a minimum number of participants to set sail; private charters accommodate up to six people.

Are food and drinks provided?

No — food and drinks are not included, but guests may bring their own refreshments.

Where does the cruise take place?

The cruise explores the Roanoke Sound in the Hampton, Virginia area.

Is the trip suitable for children?

The outing is described as suitable for all ages.