Private boat eco tour Shackleford Banks with local captain

Four hours on the water: wildlife, fishing, clamming, crabbing, or whatever the weather and your interest allow

A private eco tour of Shackleford Banks on a small boat captained by Chris, a lifelong local who spends 200+ days a year on the water. You choose the focus (wildlife watching, fishing, clamming, crabbing, swimming or hiking), and the captain adjusts the plan to weather and tide. All fishing and crabbing gear, bait and licenses are included. No experience required.

The experience

The boat is small enough to reach shallow areas and quieter spots that larger ferries can't access, which is what makes it possible to avoid the crowded routes and see the island the way locals do. Captain Chris grew up on Shackleford Banks, left only for his time in the Navy, and has spent nearly 20 years as a full-time fishing guide in these waters. That means he knows where the wildlife congregates, which beaches hold clams, and how the tides move through the channels: knowledge that changes what a four-hour trip can actually hold.

What you do depends on what you want and what the weather allows. Fishing, crabbing and clamming all come with gear and bait already onboard. The blanket license covers everyone, so you don't need to arrange permits. You can also swim, hike to the lighthouse, photograph the day, or simply watch for dolphins and birds. The captain makes a tentative plan before you leave, then adjusts it once you're out there: that flexibility is what a private boat gives you that a scheduled ferry doesn't.

Bring your own drinks and snacks in a small cooler (soft or hard, under 40 quarts) that can load easily onto the boat. Service animals are welcome, and infants can ride on an adult's lap. The tour suits all fitness levels.

What’s included

• All fishing and crabbing gear, bait and licenses.
• clamming equipment.
• a local captain with 20 years of experience on the water.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 1 Jan 2027

Book up to12h before

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 16 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortPets welcomeInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Shackleford Banks Eco Tours

Is this one for you?Four hours is long enough to fish, forage or explore without eating the whole day. If you're staying on the island and want to do something else afterward, this leaves room for it. If you want a full-day immersion in one activity, ask the captain about extending the trip.

Traveler reviews

5.00★★★★★★★★★★

16 verified traveler reviews

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What can I actually do on a four-hour private boat tour of Shackleford Banks?

Fishing, crabbing, clamming, swimming, hiking to the lighthouse, wildlife watching and photography are all possibilities. The captain adjusts the day based on weather, tide and what interests you. You're not locked into a set itinerary.

Do I need my own fishing license or crabbing license for this tour?

No. All fishing and crabbing gear, bait and a blanket license that covers everyone on the boat are included. You don't need to arrange permits yourself.

What makes Captain Chris's boat different from the larger ferry tours?

The smaller boat can reach shallow areas and quieter spots away from the crowded routes. Captain Chris is a local who has fished these waters for 20 years, so he knows where wildlife congregates and how to adjust the plan to conditions in real time.

What should I bring on the boat?

Bring drinks and snacks in a small cooler (soft or hard, under 40 quarts) that loads easily. Wear clothes and shoes suitable for water and sun. The captain will advise on what else depending on the season and what you plan to do.