KITTY HAWK WINE FIELD GUIDE
From Duck to Decanter: A 2.5‑Hour Vineyard Voyage Across Currituck Sound
A 2.5-hour Vineyard Voyage that departs Duck, crosses Currituck Sound by boat, continues by open-air 4×4 safari truck to Sanctuary Vineyards, and includes a behind-the-scenes winery tour and private tasting.
From Duck to Decanter: A 2.5‑Hour Vineyard Voyage Across Currituck Sound.
Adventure brief
From Duck to Decanter: A 2.5‑Hour Vineyard Voyage Across Currituck Sound
The Vineyard Voyage threads together water and land: a short boat crossing of Currituck Sound from the village of Duck, an overland run through marsh and agricultural fields in an open-air 4×4 safari truck, and a close-up visit to Sanctuary Vineyards’ 33 acres for a backstage look at winemaking and a private tasting.
Located in the picturesque Outer Banks of North Carolina, Sanctuary Vineyards offers an immersive 2.5-hour Vineyard Voyage that merges nature, adventure, and wine culture into one unforgettable experience. Starting from the charming town of Kitty Hawk, this journey transports visitors across the tranquil waters of Currituck Sound before delivering them to the lush, award-winning Sanctuary Vineyards. The adventure begins on a rugged 4×4 safari truck, designed to navigate the varied terrain and allow guests to soak in the vibrant landscapes of this unique coastal region. As you roll across sandy trails lined with native grasses and wildflowers, there’s a vivid sense of the Outer Banks’ natural charm locked in every vista.
The highlight of this trip is the exclusive behind-the-scenes winery tour. Sanctuary Vineyards is renowned in the region for its innovative approach to winemaking, combining traditional techniques with the maritime climate’s influences. Guests gain insider knowledge about grape varietals carefully selected to thrive in this sandy, salty setting—crafting wines with distinct coastal character. Following the tour, a private wine tasting session presents an opportunity to sample several of the vineyard’s signature offerings, from crisp whites to bold reds, each reflecting the terroir’s unique imprint. The intimate setting ensures a focused and educational experience that appeals equally to seasoned oenophiles and casual sippers.
What makes Sanctuary Vineyards exceptional in the Outer Banks is how it bridges outdoor adventure with a refined sensory journey. Few destinations here pair the rugged exploration of sound and land via a safari truck with a sophisticated winery visit. It stands apart as an accessible and engaging option for travelers seeking a break from beach activities with culture and flavor.
Kitty Hawk is the ideal base for this excursion, offering numerous accommodation options and other coastal attractions. Given the limited spots on each vineyard voyage, booking early is recommended to secure your place on this popular excursion.
For those intrigued by natural beauty and regional craftsmanship, Sanctuary Vineyards offers an inviting gateway to the Outer Banks’ hidden depths. Discover why this vineyard has become a standout destination for visitors eager to blend exploration and relaxation in a coastal paradise.
Route Schematic
Itinerary at a Glance
Key stops move from Duck across Currituck Sound to a boathouse landing, an overland safari and the vineyard tour.
Duck — Departure
Depart from the Outer Banks community of Duck and board a boat for the crossing of Currituck Sound.
Historic Boathouse Landing
Land at a historic hunting lodge boathouse, where the overland portion of the voyage begins.
Overland Safari
Board an open‑air 4×4 safari truck and traverse marsh and agricultural fields on the way to the vineyard’s acreage.
Sanctuary Vineyards — Tour & Tasting
Arrive at Sanctuary Vineyards for a behind‑the‑scenes winery tour and a private wine tasting that explores the vineyard’s vine‑to‑glass process.
Reservations are required, and you should book at least 2–3 days ahead to secure a spot; the tour is open to participants aged 6 and older.
What the day feels like
What the Vineyard Voyage Feels Like
The trip compresses a variety of coastal landscapes into a short, deliberate itinerary: a brief boat passage, the open breeze of an overland safari truck, and quiet rows of vines. It culminates in an intimate, educational winery visit and tasting that reveals the farm‑to‑bottle craft of Sanctuary Vineyards.
THE APPROACH
Crossing Currituck Sound by Boat
The voyage begins in Duck and includes a scenic crossing of Currituck Sound by boat, delivering you to a historic hunting lodge boathouse before the overland portion begins.
THE ROUTE
Open‑air 4×4 Safari Through Marsh and Fields
From the boathouse the trip continues in an open‑air 4×4 safari truck, traveling through marshes and across agricultural fields en route to the vineyard’s cultivated parcels.
THE CELLAR
A Behind‑the‑Scenes Winery Tour and Private Tasting
At Sanctuary Vineyards you receive a behind‑the‑scenes tour and a private wine tasting—learn the vine‑to‑glass process, smell the French oak barrels and meet the winemakers behind a winery that produces over 7,000 cases seasonally and has earned more than 100 accolades.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this voyage suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Reservations are required; please call or book online at least 2–3 days ahead of time to secure your spot.
The voyage includes a boat crossing, an overland portion in an open‑air 4×4 safari truck, and a behind‑the‑scenes winery tour with a private tasting; reserve in advance to guarantee participation.
Plan for a 2.5‑hour Vineyard Voyage and confirm your reservation at least 2–3 days prior to your desired date.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Vineyard Voyage?
The trip is 2.5 hours in duration.
Where does the trip depart from?
The Vineyard Voyage departs from the Outer Banks community of Duck and crosses Currituck Sound by boat to reach the boathouse landing.
Is there a minimum or maximum age to participate?
The tour is open to participants aged 6 and older.
What happens at Sanctuary Vineyards?
Visitors receive a behind‑the‑scenes winery tour and a private wine tasting where they learn the vine‑to‑glass process and experience the cellar and barrels.
Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes—reservations are required; you should call or book online at least 2–3 days ahead to secure your spot.
What can I expect from the vineyard itself?
Sanctuary Vineyards spans cultivated acreage producing over 7,000 cases of wine seasonally and has earned more than 100 accolades for its wines.
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: 2026-09-05T19:27:25.476Z
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.