Took a 1 hour cruise of the Cape Fear River on the Henrietta. Left on time and was as expected almost exactly 1 hour. We asked for and received the senior discount (pays to be old!). Was $24 each. We sat up top under the canopy and it was not too hot. Captain was good and pointed out enough without being too "cute". It would have been nice to have some activity at the port when we went by but it was Sunday and all was quiet. Our trip on the Henrietta was unplanned but we had no problems walking up and getting tickets. Good for everyone if you are looking for an alternative view of Wilmington riverfront. Seating on the top deck is plastic chairs so not super comfortable. read more

Not being from the area my colleagues booked our group a river boat tour. Over all had a great time and would recommend it fully. The captain wasn't overly talky...pointed out some significant landmarks but let the river do all the talking. The boat does have a bar of wine, beer and pop. My colleagues and I enjoyed the tour completely, was a good opportunity for us to relax, hangout and enjoy each others company. read more

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Interesting tour.. lasted the duration of time but not that engaging. Saw the ports and turned back before going all the way past them. Not the most comfortable seating read more

Cape Fear Riverboats - View from the front, pretty rocky so suggest seating - Boat Charters Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

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I took another sunset cruise with Cape Fear Riverboats as they were the only company operating on a Monday. I'm not sure if the possible storms or the cloudy conditions kept folks away but there were just a handful of us on board so we could move around. I was surprised that the tour has a commentary now so that was nice to learn more about the area and industries there. Although some of the folks talked over the commentary making it difficult to hear and I thought it was rude and disrespectful to the Captains. The clouds prevented seeing the sunset but I really enjoyed catching some of the machines operating at the docks. The lumber chips were being made to send to Turkey for them to build the board to send back here. Another was grabbing something white and moving it. I took videos but they haven't posted so I will try again. I just found it interesting to learn about all that goes on. I don't remember seeing the machinery in action before. read more

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Fun and informative cruise. We took the family, including a toddler and had a wonderful time.

The sunset was lovely! Captain Mike was lovely. My friends and I loved spending the evening learning about Wilmington history and seeing the beautiful sunset on the water! Highly recommend! read more

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I was in Wilmington to enjoy some fall craft markets and browse some antique stores. The weather was beautiful and I had a feeling sunset was going to be beautiful. I decided to stay and do the sunset cruise and am so glad I did. My experience is definitely influenced by the fact that sunset was absolutely spectacular on the evening I went. By the end, the sky was glowing with bright pink and red. I enjoyed the narrated parts of the ride and liked learning more about the area. Some parts were not narrated and we could just enjoy some music while taking in the scenery. When the sun set, the boat stopped for a few minutes and staff came around to ask if you wanted your picture taken on your phone or camera. There are bathrooms on the boat and drinks were available for purchase. The ride was 90 minutes so I thought the price was average. While my favorite is still the sunset sail in Newport, Rhode Island, this was definitely a great time for me. I love taking photos and sunsets, ... and like I said, the sunset on the evening I went was so colorful and dramatic. I included a picture I took walking back to my car to show the range of colors. I wish the ride had been maybe 10-15 minutes longer (or started a few minutes later) to fully enjoy the view of the post-sunset glow. read more

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The captain was pleasant and gave a nice overview of the river, it's history, past industrial use, and construction. The tour is about 50 minutes and overpriced in my opinion--$25. read more

The captain had all kinds of information about the area. Friendly staff. There was seating upstairs and downstairs was enclosed with table and chairs to sit at. Nice little tour for the money. read more

Cape Fear Riverboats - Port, container ship loading. - Boat Charters Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

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My friend and I did the Black River Nature Cruise yesterday. Even at 4 hrs, it was an informative, beautiful, relaxing day. Capt Jay was courteous and skilled as he steered us through the ancient, black water. Our tour guide and narrator was biologist/naturalist/environmentalist Andy Wood, who provided us with knowledge of area's flora and fauna. He is a wealth of pertinent ecological information. I felt like I did a mini course in Cape Fear and Black River history.. The boat was double decker with open air, covered top tier. The air- conditioned downstairs came with full bar (delicious bloody mary) and 2 restrooms. This area provided a cooling retreat from the upper level if needed, although the day's ample river breeze was enough for us. Quiet time was also provided to simply absorb the fantastic colorful scenery around us. A variety of birds posted up in the shallows looking for lunch. 500 year-old cypress trees clung to river banks and alligators lounged on the sunny banks, giving the river's remote route a primordial sense. My senses were cleared and calmed when we returned after a cessation of traffic and human hustling. I highly recommend this excursion. Bring a lunch- picnic on the river! Or munch on the freshly made popcorn in the bar area. Don't forget your binoculars! read more

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The captain was friendly, accommodating, and was great to work with. Our party enjoyed the cruise.

Great job needs more boats but thanks for the afternoon. I'd advise more viewing for top deck

The website is deceiving. I thought I had booked my family on the Henrietta river boat. Every picture on the website shows the Henrietta. I booked what I thought was a trip on the Henrietta, the ship with a/c and an indoor sitting area. In a small picture when I went to book, there was a picture of another ship. I didn't think anything of it since the picture was so small. When I arrived, we were put on the smaller catamaran instead of the Henrietta. This was disappointing. The trip itself is fine. It's about 50 minutes in length and the captain had some interesting facts to share. There was a large container ship turning around in the water so we had to wait for about 10 minutes before we could move again. You could tell the captain was trying to find anything to say to fill the time. At $25 a person, I think was expensive especially since we were not placed on the boat we expected to be on. read more

We booked our tour for 6 participants after 8PM on Tue 29Jul for the Wed 30Jul 1PM cruise in keeping an eye on the weather forecast. Yes - the website indicates cruises take place rain or shine. The website also indicates a cruise can be cancelled due to severe weather, mechanical breakdown, or lack of participation. Well ... the weather in Wrightsville wasn't cooperating late Wed morning with thunder and lightning. We called to inquire if the cruise was still scheduled with an answer of yes. There was a light drizzle in Wilmington when we arrived at the port, and we departed promptly at 1PM. Unfortunately, our tour was cut short due to severe weather. Appreciate the captain's concern for our safety. But Cape Fear Riverboats seems to be interested more in your money than satisfaction of your experience. No offer was made to rebook for another tour or a partial refund when severe weather is expected in the area before departure or during a cruise. Be aware of your weather forecast when booking a tour. Expect to push off the dock regardless of the forecast or weather. Don't expect any offer to 'make your experience over the top' when the weather doesn't cooperate. read more

This was my second time on the Cape fear Riverboats, and I have to say this was a total snooze fest. It was hot, and boring. The dude just read in a monotone voice over the speakers. They have now set up the chairs so that we are sitting in an audience style Instead of being able to sit wherever and actually see the speaker. It pretty much was a snooze fest and I wouldn't ever go again. The first time I went in 2021, it was interesting and fun and they served rum punch and we were able to interact and see our speaker and it was very educational and interesting. So I don't know what they're doing but they're going the wrong direction. read more

Cape Fear Riverboats - Meh - Boat Charters Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

Took the new Henrietta riverboat sightseeing cruise aboard the Cape Fear river. It takes about 1 hour and takes you north to the US battleship and south to the Wilmington ports. It is narrated live and provides useful information about the sights that you pass by. Price is $20 person. Outdoor seating on the top floor is covered, and breezy during the ride. The main floor seating area is air conditioned and has snack bar and restrooms. Recommend it if you are in town and looking to pass 1 hour sitting on the riverboat instead of walking on the riverwalk with the kids in summer heat. read more

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Nice, short (~1 hour) scenic cruise. The captain gives a good presentation of some of the local history. A pleasant cruise but somehow lacking. I would say it ok but overpriced. read more

Riverboats...sigh. Is there anything more romantically Southern? Love 'em. You will catch me in the front of the line for the Disneyland "Mark Twain' cruise, and it was no different when we spotted this beauty. Lazy 1.5 hour cruise along Cape Fear with a frosty Corona and our iPhone cameras set to Panorama, we toured the historic riverfront on down to the massive workings of a modern operating port. This was an afternoon cruise where you could buy sundries and cold drinks at the little bar. I get the suspicion that some of the other reviews were for lunch or dinner cruises, and may have been disappointed with the higher cost and the quality of their food. read more

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My husband and I had a good time on our sunset river cruise. I am surprised to see so many low ratings. If you're deciding whether to go, I wouldn't put too much stock in some of these older reviews. It seems clear to me that a lot has changed over the years. New management maybe? I don't know. But the cruise lasted exactly an hour and a half. We got to see a lovely sunset and get a different vantage point of the downtown river walk. I personally didn't mind the fact that they didn't narrate the entire time (it was still most of the time). There was a covered top deck and an air conditioned lower level where the bar was. I would go back! read more

A lunch river cruise was a good time for all the family, a little historical blurb about local rice paddies, why the river was the color it was, the bridge, shipping, shipyards and naval activity. Henrietta III was a decent boat to ride for the cruise, albeit slow, and the lunch was an okay cold cut buffet on the middle deck after the boat mc finished his commentary. The dining room had a dance floor, but nobody was cutting a rug, we were just sitting down, enjoying the comfort of the AC. By the time we got back dockside, we were pretty much finished eating - great timing for us to do a little more exploring before going off on the next adventure. read more

Took the Cape Fear riverboat tour today with my family. We had a great time. Sat up top for the first part of the cruise and down stairs for the second half to cool off on a hot day. I felt that Everyone was sitting socially distance and wearing masks when needed to. My children really enjoyed this family friendly tour. read more

For what it's worth, not bad. The boat tour is only $12, and $6 for kids so you really can't expect a lot. It was a cool trip, that teaches a lot about the history of some of the boats, buildings and houses. They let you bring food and drinks on the boat if you want (non-alcoholic). Overall, it's very relaxing and family friendly of nothing else. They allow you to come up and ask questions on the way back. The captain even came to the back to welcome us to the tour! read more

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4 stars because they no longer do the Murder Mystery on the boat because it was sold this year so you're on a barge & it's pretty hot & kinda hard to hear the actors. Luckily they turned a fan off so that helped with hearing. They have a show every Tuesday $17 per adult. You can let them know ahead of time what show you watched last time so it's not a repeat. Should book tickets ahead of time so you can let them know what show you have watched just in case. The 3 actors did really well & got everyone involved. Lots of laughs!!!!! & the hour flew by. You can order food from the River Grill. I personally didn't but that's because we had plans after the show. read more

Cape Fear Riverboats - Boat Charters Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

We had an awesome time taking the kids out on Father's Day. This is a great way to get some fresh air and learn a little history about Wilmington. They loved cruising under the bridge and looking up to see the bottom of the cars passing overhead. You cannot beat the view of the battleship and it was just nice to get out on the water! Everybody was super friendly and accommodating. Bring your own drinks and snacks. Mom and dad will definitely go back to hang out in their little waterfront bar for live music. Thanks for a fun adventure! read more

Cape Fear Riverboats - Bring your binoculars! - Boat Charters Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

Had my wedding here early October 2012. Positives: Great view for a wedding. Staff, upon arrival, were nice in trying to resolve issues that I had with their company Negatives: MaryAnn Beachemin was a complete hag to work with the whole 4 months I had to plan my wedding. Being that we live out of town, we couldn't come inspect the area before hand. You would think she would be a bit more helpful when trying to explain details to me. She was always short and snippy. I would even send her thank you emails to see if she would get the hint that she was being rotten the hole time! She didn't. IF she would answer emails, they wouldn't be clear. She told me to call her, not email her with questions (now I know why! NO PROOF!!!!) She booked me on Riverfest weekend and didn't tell me until 2 weeks beforehand. Parking was a complete nightmare for me and my guests. I had to walk almost 5 blocks, in my wedding dress and heels just to get to the boat. My poor guests had the same treatment. They only allotted me 30 minutes for my wedding, and one hour to decorate. The 3rd deck, where they do the weddings, was slanted (oops, forgot to tell me that too.) I stood my whole wedding, on a slant, and my guests felt like they were going to fall back in there chairs. MaryAnn told me I had 2 options when it came to music for the ceremony (had a DJ for the reception), either I could use their stereo, or use there jack (for an Ipod). We opted for the stereo. Upon arrival, there was NO STEREO. Music was a HUGE factor in my wedding and this ruined it. Luckily, my DJ had a laptop, but you could hardly hear the music. I couldn't even have that special moment with my hubby because I was so irritated! I couldn't hear my own music and wasn't even sure if it was time for me to come out..... Food was mediocre. I would expect more, a lot more for $40 per person. The staff butchered my cake. They were supposed to keep my top layer. They were supposed to serve ice cream along with the cake. They only served it to half my guests without asking if they wanted any or not. I was told that hubby and I would get any leftover champage that was unused, I didn't. Groomsman told us later he saw the staff drop a whole tray of it by the bar....wow, that's where my champagne went. To top it off, afterwards, when I complained, MaryAnn told me that they have done their jobs, and they felt as though there was nothing to resolve. Even tried to lie and say they didn't promise some of the things she had, even though I had SOME email to back it up (mind you, she hardly responded via email, always phone). I now know why they have so many bad reviews all over the web. I recieved no compensation for them ruining what was supposed to be the most happiest day of my life. Mind you, we paid completely upfront, followed all deadlines and the ways of the ship. We even helped clean up, and this is how they treated us. Do yourself a favor, and have your wedding somewhere else. Just because they have beautiful scenery doesn't mean they should be able to treat people this way. read more

The Henrietta III Riverboat was the kind of experience I might've enjoyed if I were a senior citizen. The food was a buffet of greasy, soggy, country fixings that reminded me of 'Golden Corral' chain food (which I hate). If you want to sit and enjoy slow-paced scenery, this is PERFECT for you. Otherwise? This is not the kind of tour that promotes excitement or even romanticism for dating. However, I did enjoy myself for novelty's sake. There's plenty of places on the boat to explore, and find a private place to be alone if you're with a date, but it all looks the same. By mid-tour, I was so bored I was getting the urge to hide in a closet somewhere and have a quickie. Classy, I know. read more

My husband and I chartered the Henrietta for our son's rehearsal dinner. We were looking for something unique and this was perfect. The wedding party and family members had a blast eatting dinner while cruising the Cape Fear River. Captain Daren and his crew were very accommodating and so helpful. I highly recommend the Henrietta for your next special event! read more

You can get aboard for about 20 bucks without food, which is what I would recommend. Food was ok, stick to the chicken, fresh veg and potato...its home cooking, worth about 8 bucks max. Beer was reasonable, $4.25 corona. Not much in the way of scenery, but its the Cape Fear River. You are not gonna turn a corner and see the ruins of Pompei! read more

Nice, clean, and exactly what they say it is nothing more. Lunch was sandwiches, cookies, and salad, no pops. Went with my family and enjoyed it. Lots of history. Just no wow factor. We will do it again, just not pay extra for lunch. read more

Cape Fear Riverboats - Boat Charters Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

I took the one hour tour for $10. It was a very pleasant experience. The boat captain narrated the majority of the trip and I learned a lot about the history of Wilmington. For ultimate comfort, I do recommend bringing a cushion to sit on because the seats are hard. It's okay for an hour but if you take any longer trips it would be very uncomfortable. Overall it's well worth $10 for this enjoyable tour and to get out on the Cape Fear river. read more

Cape Fear Riverboats - Boat Charters Near Me - Wilmington, North Carolina

Very affordable, easy going Riverboat tour. The captain was friendly & informative. The staff member aboard was also very friendly. Patrons are able to grab drinks @ the stationary riverfront tiki bar to bring on the boat. Restrooms are available on the boat. Glad we took this 1 hour sunset tour! read more

Great if you want a romantic night along the Cape. Favorite part was riding during sunset. Mystery show is average unless they've improved it since 2014. Would not recommend first date for anyone under 25. Pregame (dinner ticket does not include bar drinks). Tip the staff! They are underpaid and all staff split the total tips at the end of the night. They are under original management that are stuck in their ways & their schedules are never consistent week to week. read more

My friend just had a wedding here. We all had a great time! The staff was super friendly and polite. The boat is a little bit older, you can tell.. but the food definitely made up for it. The food was absolutely delicious! Not sure how much the cruise would be by itself, but I would love to go back and do it. They served roast beef, roasted chicken, rice pilaf, mixed vegetables, salad, and bread. YUM! :) loved it. read more

Went with a group on the dinner cruise. Well, the cruise is good on a hot summer night. The tour guide provide a lot of info. However, I would suggest eating at a local restaurant before or after the boat ride. The food was some kind of baked ziti with ground beef, spaghetti with either a meat sauce or a white sauce, basic salad, bread and a chocolate pudding, graham cracker, cool whip dessert. Pretty much the boat ride as a 4, but the food was a-1, which make 3. read more

We recently booked the Murder Mystery Dinner & Cruise for our wedding anniversary. We had a ball! The food and service was excellent and the show was so much fun. Love the interaction the actors had with the audience during the show. I also love how they topped it off with the fun line dances at the end. We had a great time and I would highly recommend the Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise to anyone looking for a fun evening. I would love to book another one! Thanks Henrietta III crew for a great evening! read more

For $40 a person for a dinner cruise they could at least replace the moldy ceiling tiles.

Relaxing. Great on a hot day. Learned a bit about Wilmington while onboard. Not a whole lot to look at but I found it to be very relaxing and only $10. Covered boat so no need to worry about the sun beaming on you the entire time. Tour lasts an hour. read more

Took the lunch, sightseeing tour. The buffet was cold cut sandwiches and potatoe salad. There's absolutely nothing close to interesting to sightsee. The boat was kinda rundown and not very clean. The only saving grace is the beer they sell on board. read more

Took the 1 hr cruise. Though all was clean and the captain narrated well ... was disappointed not to have seen more (or any) of the natural river system (rather than the port docking machinery, etc.). Could have left my camera in the hotel. read more

My husband and I thoroughly enjoy the Lunch Cruise on the Henrietta III Riverboat today. It was a great experience from beginning to end. Everyone was so courteous and friendly from the ticket booth attendant, to the boat captain and crew and especially our dining room attendant who took care of our every need making the cruise so enjoyable. The food was delicious and satisfying too! We have wanted to go on this cruise for a long time so today in celebration of our 28th anniversary we made it! Thanks to everyone at Henrietta III for making our anniversary so special! Linda & Philip read more