NEBO WATER ACTIVITIES FIELD GUIDE
Lake James by MasterCraft: Captain Eric’s private wake sessions for big waves and smooth slaloms
Private charters on Lake James aboard GreenFlash Watersports’ MasterCraft NXT20 offering waterskiing, wakeboarding, wake surfing, tubing or a booze cruise for groups of up to 10.
Lake James by MasterCraft: Captain Eric’s private wake sessions for big waves and smooth slaloms.
Adventure brief
Lake James by MasterCraft: Captain Eric’s private wake sessions for big waves and smooth slaloms
On Lake James, Captain Eric Eastridge takes groups aboard a MasterCraft NXT20 for a day of waterskiing, wakeboarding, wakesurfing, tubing—or simply a relaxed booze cruise. The operator runs private charters that combine equipment, adjustable ballast for bigger or cleaner wakes, and on-the-water coaching to shape a session around the group’s goals.
Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake James in Nebo, North Carolina, offers an exhilarating playground for water sports enthusiasts and scenic adventurers alike. The Wake Surf Waterski experience, guided by Captain Eric Eastridge aboard the MasterCraft NXT20, brings a dynamic blend of adrenaline-pumping activities to this expansive 6,812-acre reservoir known for its clear waters and dramatic shoreline cliffs. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of wakeboarding, mastering wake surfing, slicing through the water on skis, or enjoying a leisurely tubing trip, this outing is tailored to fit every skill level and taste.
Lake James is a standout destination in western North Carolina, combining natural beauty with a vibrant recreational culture. Surrounded by steep forested slopes and dotted with rocky outcrops, the lake invites visitors to engage with the outdoors in a way that balances challenge and relaxation. Captain Eric’s expert coaching elevates the experience, offering personalized tips that sharpen your technique while keeping the day fun and safe. For those wanting to soak up the scenery, there's the option to unwind on a booze cruise, drifting past panoramic views of forested hills and tranquil coves.
The MasterCraft NXT20, a top-of-the-line wake sports boat, is equipped for comfort and performance, providing smooth rides and ideal wakes for surfing and boarding. Eric’s deep local knowledge not only enhances your skills but also ensures you discover the best spots on the lake removed from the busier bays, capturing the essence of this pristine aquatic playground.
Nebo, just minutes from the lake, offers a quiet small-town charm with easy access to accommodations, dining, and local highlights like South Mountains State Park. This proximity makes Wake Surf Waterski Lake James an accessible yet immersive adventure — perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a unique day on the water.
In summary, this experience stands out by combining technical instruction, premium watersports gear, and the majestic backdrop of Lake James. From first-timers seeking guidance to seasoned wake surfers craving new challenges, this trip invites exploration across water, skill, and stunning natural surroundings. Whether aiming for the rush of the wake or the calm of a late afternoon cruise, the experience vividly captures what makes Lake James a treasured spot for outdoor recreation in North Carolina.
Route Schematic
Route & Stops
A typical charter follows a simple loop of marina departure, watersports zones for coached runs, and a scenic cruise segment before returning to dock.
Bear Creek Marina (Meeting point)
Groups meet at Bear Creek Marina on Lake James to board the MasterCraft NXT20 and brief the day’s plan.
Watersports zone
The boat positions in open water for slalom or double waterski, wakeboard, wake surf, or tubing; guests rotate through their chosen activities.
Custom wake runs
Ballasts are filled to build a larger wake for wakeboard or wakesurf sessions, or dumped for a cleaner ski wake depending on the group’s preference.
Booze cruise & return
If chosen, the group can switch to a relaxed cruise around the lake before returning to Bear Creek Marina to disembark.
Charters run on the MasterCraft NXT20 and accommodate up to 10 passengers; sessions are priced at $150 per hour for the group.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
MasterCraft NXT20 and a seasoned captain
Your group rides in a MasterCraft NXT20 under Captain Eric Eastridge, an experienced water-ski coach who runs private charters for up to ten passengers.
Waterski, wakeboard, wake surf and tubing options
Choose the discipline you want—slalom or double waterskiing, wakeboarding, wake surfing or tubing—and tailor the boat’s ballast to create a bigger wave or a smooth ski wake.
Private cruise or high‑adrenaline coaching
Sessions can be a relaxed booze cruise around the lake or focused coaching runs to improve your technique under Eric’s guidance.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
The outing is private and customizable: after meeting at the marina you head out on the MasterCraft NXT20 for coached runs, tow-sport rotations, or a leisurely circuit of Lake James, with ballast loaded or dumped to match the group’s chosen activity.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits (and who should look elsewhere).
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The charter is run aboard a MasterCraft NXT20; the boat carries ballast systems that can be filled or dumped to create larger wakes for wakeboarding and wakesurfing or a cleaner wake for waterskiing.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where do we meet for the trip?
Meet at Bear Creek Marina on Lake James.
How many people can come on a charter?
Charters accommodate up to 10 passengers.
How much does a charter cost?
The listing is priced at $150 per hour for the group (up to 10 passengers).
What activities can we do?
Choose from waterskiing (slalom or double), wakeboarding, wake surfing, tubing, or a booze cruise around the lake.
Is coaching available during the session?
Yes—Captain Eric Eastridge is an experienced water-ski coach and will help guests learn or improve whichever activity they choose.
Can the wake be adjusted for different sports?
Yes—the boat has ballast that can be filled to make a bigger wave for wakeboarding and wakesurfing, or dumped for a smoother ski wake.
What boat will we be on?
The charter uses a MasterCraft NXT20.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-03T23:21:05.208Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.