Wilmington: Eagles Island Boat Cruise & Battleship Views

Summary

Wilmington’s river life up close with stories, shipwrecks and the battleship

You’ll glide down the Cape Fear River on a comfortable catamaran with locals sharing real stories—think shipwrecks, rice plantations, and unique views of the Battleship North Carolina. Snap photos, catch unexpected laughs with strangers, and feel Wilmington’s quieter side come alive for just under an hour.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really know what to expect when we stepped onto that catamaran in Wilmington — just felt like I needed a break from sidewalks and screens. The Cape Fear River looked quiet but somehow alive, you know? Our captain (he introduced himself as Mike, just “Mike”) had this way of talking that made me want to listen, even when I thought I’d zone out. He pointed out Eagles Island first — it’s not flashy or anything, but there’s something about the marsh grass and old wooden posts sticking out of the water that made me wonder what kind of stories they’d seen.

We drifted past the Battleship North Carolina, and Mike started telling us about rice plantations and shipwrecks along the riverbank. I could smell brackish water mixed with something sweet — maybe wildflowers? Someone behind me snapped a photo right as a tugboat honked and startled us all. It was funny how everyone laughed together for a second, even though we didn’t know each other. If you book this day trip to Eagles Island from Wilmington, you get these little moments where history feels less like a textbook and more like someone’s memory.

The sun kept shifting through clouds, making the whole place look different every few minutes. Mike told us no two cruises are ever exactly alike — I believe him now. There was this part where he pointed at an old ship skeleton half-sunk in mud; I tried to picture it moving again but couldn’t quite manage it. Still think about that view sometimes. The cruise is only 50 minutes, but it messes with your sense of time in a good way.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 50-minute narrated boat cruise

• Board comfortable 46' catamaran
• Cruise north past Historic Downtown and Eagles Island
• View Battleship North Carolina and rice plantations
• Observe shipwrecks, flora, and fauna
• Alternatively, cruise south under Cape Fear Memorial Bridge
• See State Ports and WWII shipyard history
• Watch tug boats, container ships, and pleasure boats
• Enjoy photo opportunities throughout the cruise

Top questions

How long is the Eagles Island boat cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately 50 minutes.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on board the catamaran.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible.

What will I see during the cruise?

You’ll see Eagles Island, Historic Downtown Wilmington views, Battleship North Carolina, shipwrecks, flora and fauna.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board.

Can infants join the cruise?

Yes, but infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap.

Do cruises go north or south along the river?

If you book on even hours you go north past Eagles Island; odd hours go south under Cape Fear Memorial Bridge.

Is public transportation nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near departure point.

What’s included

Your trip includes a 50-minute narrated boat cruise along Cape Fear River with views of Eagles Island and Battleship North Carolina; there’s a restroom onboard for comfort throughout your ride.