Adventure brief
Private Sunset Cruise
Discover the perfect evening on the water with a customizable Private Sunset Cruise departing from Wrightsville Beach, NC. Tailor your route, enjoy stunning coastal views, and savor a glass of wine as the sun sets.
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, offers an unmatched backdrop for a serene, personalized sailing experience with the Private Sunset Cruise operated by Epic Excursions. Just a short drive from Wilmington, this salty barrier island is known for its crystal-clear waters, sandy shores, and dynamic coastal habitats. This private two-hour sunset cruise invites you to witness the coastline's golden hour from a completely unique vantage point—the water itself.
Departing from the Public Boat Ramp at 109 Causeway Drive, the cruise is led by a USCG Certified Master Captain who ensures safety and expertise as you set sail. What makes this trip stand out is its tailor-made itinerary. Whether you prefer a guided tour to the iconic Masonboro Island, a peaceful glide past Figure 8 Island and Mason's Inlet, or a leisurely harbor cruise around Wrightsville Beach, the journey can be designed around your interests.
You can even choose to disembark at waterfront restaurants such as BridgeTender Grill or South Beach Grill—favorites known for dock-and-dine access—perfect for extending your evening. As the sun dips into the horizon, the landscape transforms around you: serene islands shift into silhouettes, sandbars reveal their quiet charm, and coastal homes shimmer with sunset hues. This area’s unique ecosystem, featuring protected salt marshes and maritime forests, often introduces guests to playful dolphins and seabirds that frequent the waters, adding an intimate wildlife element to your cruise.
Epic Excursions enhances this experience with thoughtful amenities including a complimentary bottle of white wine, a cooler for your own beverages, and all safety gear on board. While food isn’t provided, guests can order artisanal charcuterie boards through a trusted local partnership, elevating your sunset into a small celebration. Towels, cameras, and additional beverages are encouraged to complete the comfort and capture priceless moments.
This customizable private cruise is more than just a scenic tour—it's an opportunity to connect deeply with the natural beauty and coastal culture of Wrightsville Beach. Whether you're marking a special occasion or simply soaking in the peaceful end to a day, the flexibility and expert guidance make it a standout in local outdoor recreation. Booking well in advance is recommended due to limited boat capacity (maximum 13 guests), ensuring an intimate, unhurried adventure.
Arrive 15 minutes early to settle in at the dock and prepare for an unforgettable evening on the Southern shores of North Carolina.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring your own beverages and snacksessential
While a complimentary bottle of white wine is included, feel free to bring additional drinks and your favorite snacks to enhance your cruise.
- 02Arrive 15 minutes earlyessential
Plan to arrive at the Public Boat Ramp dock early to ensure smooth parking and waiver signing before departure.
- 03Consider ordering a charcuterie boardinfo
Enhance your experience by ordering a local charcuterie delivered to the boat through the recommended partner, Host and Graze.
- 04Bring a camera or phoneinfo
Golden hour offers stunning photo opportunities of coastal islands, wildlife, and the sunset over the Atlantic, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Light jacket or sweater
Evenings can get cool in spring; a light layer keeps you comfortable while on the water.
springSunscreen
Protect your skin from sun exposure during the daytime portions of your cruise.
summerEssentialBug spray
An extra layer of protection against mosquitoes in the cooler months enhances comfort.
fallWarm hat
Keep warm during chilly winter evenings on the open water with a cozy hat.
winterLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Secluded sandbars near Masonboro Island perfect for quiet beach walks, Tide pools along the shorelines revealing small marine life at low tide
Local fauna
Bottlenose dolphins frequently seen playing near the boat, Various seabirds such as pelicans and terns sailing overhead
Historic heritage
Wrightsville Beach has long been a fishing and recreational hotspot, developing into a popular coastal destination by the mid-20th century.
Mindful exploration
Efforts to protect the delicate barrier island ecosystem include regulated boating routes to minimize disturbance to wildlife and habitats.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Approaching Masonboro Island, Near Figure 8 Island inlet, From the boat dock at Public Boat Ramp
- Subjects
- Sunsets over the water, Coastal wildlife such as dolphins and seabirds, Island shorelines and sandbars
- Best times
- Golden hour, Sunset, Early evening
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Can we customize the cruise route?
Yes, the Private Sunset Cruise is fully customizable—your captain will discuss route options to tailor the trip to your preferences.
Are children allowed on the cruise?
There is no minimum age specified, but life jackets are provided for all guests to ensure safety.
Is alcohol allowed onboard?
Yes, you may bring your own beverages, including alcohol; a complimentary bottle of white wine is also provided.
What happens if there is bad weather?
If weather conditions cause cancellation, the operator will do their best to reschedule or apply your deposit toward a future booking.
Where do we meet for the cruise?
Departure is from the Public Boat Ramp at 109 Causeway Drive, Wrightsville Beach, NC.
Can we dock at waterfront restaurants during the cruise?
Absolutely; you can request to be dropped off at several waterfront restaurants with dock access for dining options.