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    5. Private Waterways Excursion of Beaufort and Shackleford Banks
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    Private Waterways Excursion of Beaufort and Shackleford Banks

    Experience scenic waterways, historic Beaufort, and Shackleford Banks with up to 6 guests on a private cruise.

    From$539

    Duration

    2.5-3 Hours

    Ideal For

    Up to 6 people

    Includes

    Cooler and ice, bottled water

    Highlights

    Discover the beauty of the Intracoastal Waterway, Shackleford Banks, and historic Beaufort on a private cruise. Enjoy close-up views of local landmarks and the chance to spot wild horses along the way.

    • Explore the Intracoastal Waterway and Shackleford Banks
    • See the Rachel Carson Preserve and Carrot Island
    • Pass by the NC Maritime Museum and USCG Station Ft. Macon
    • Experience the sights of Beaufort and Morehead City
    • Enjoy a cooler with ice and bottled water provided

    What's Included

    • Cooler and ice
    • Bottled water
    • Instructional review from the captain

    You must bring a photo ID for the tour, including Military ID if applicable. If Small Craft Advisories are in effect, the captain may reschedule, delay, or cancel the trip for safety.

    Cancellation policy

    No refunds if canceled within 8 days. If canceled more than 8 days in advance, 75% refund. No-shows will not be refunded. The operator may cancel or stop any tour at any time due to weather, safety, mechanical, or passenger behavioral issues. If delayed or canceled for weather, a gift voucher or reschedule may be offered. Bookings can be canceled during the grace period after creation.

    Experience provided by H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions
    Experience provided by H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #7E6JTE

    Private Waterways Excursion of Beaufort and Shackleford Banks

    $539

    4 passengers included in base price • Up to 6 passengers total

    1

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • Greetwell Approved

      This experience meets our quality and safety standards

    • Includes Concierge Support

      Our team is here to help with questions, timing, or special requests

    • Flexible Cancellation

      Plans change? Most experiences offer flexible cancellation

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    5.0 stars• 139 reviews

    Review summary

    5.0
    Excellent
    139 reviews•Google Maps

    Captain Mark has built an exceptionally loyal following with his private boat excursions around the Beaufort area. Guests consistently praise his extensive knowledge of local history, wildlife, and the coastal ecosystem, along with his genuine warmth and accommodating nature. He's described as safety-conscious, punctual, and excellent at customizing trips to match what families want to experience. The typical excursion includes visits to Shackleford Banks and Sand Dollar Island, where you'll likely spot wild horses roaming freely, collect beautiful shells, and possibly encounter dolphins along the way. Several reviewers mention returning multiple times, which speaks volumes. His boat comfortably fits groups of 2-6 people, and he's particularly attentive to guests with special needs or mobility concerns. The tours work well for diverse groups, from young children to seniors, and he even handles more sensitive occasions like memorial services with compassion and professionalism.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    ​A Fantastic Day with Captain Mark! ​We recently took a repeat BWB (Bulls, Water, Beach) tour with Captain Mark from H2O Captain, and it was just as fantastic as our first trip. Right from the start, Captain Mark was on time and prepared, waiting for us to arrive. ​As we coasted out to the Intracoastal Waterway, he gave a detailed safety briefing while also pointing out the sights we were passing along the way. We crossed the inlet and quickly arrived at our destination to find a group of wild horses waiting for us. After watching them for a bit, we took a walk further into the island. Thanks to Hurricane Erin, there was a flooded area we had to cross, which added a bit of a unique adventure to our trek! We continued on to the beach and were amazed by the incredible number of beautiful shells we found. ​What truly made the trip exceptional was Captain Mark's vast knowledge. He not only identified the different types of shells we found but also provided fascinating information about the wild horses and the island's ecosystem. We even spotted more horses on our way back to the boat! The excitement didn't stop there. On our return to the marina, we enjoyed a show from a family of dolphins near Beaufort. ​The trip was a perfect blend of adventure, learning, and natural beauty. Captain Mark is a wonderful guide, and we would absolutely book with him again. We're already planning our next trip down!

    Photo of Justin Dalton

    Justin Dalton

    August 27, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    ​A Fantastic Day with Captain Mark! ​We recently took a repeat BWB (Bulls, Water, Beach) tour with Captain Mark from H2O Captain, and it was just as fantastic as our first trip. Right from the start, Captain Mark was on time and prepared, waiting for us to arrive. ​As we coasted out to the Intracoastal Waterway, he gave a detailed safety briefing while also pointing out the sights we were passing along the way. We crossed the inlet and quickly arrived at our destination to find a group of wild horses waiting for us. After watching them for a bit, we took a walk further into the island. Thanks to Hurricane Erin, there was a flooded area we had to cross, which added a bit of a unique adventure to our trek! We continued on to the beach and were amazed by the incredible number of beautiful shells we found. ​What truly made the trip exceptional was Captain Mark's vast knowledge. He not only identified the different types of shells we found but also provided fascinating information about the wild horses and the island's ecosystem. We even spotted more horses on our way back to the boat! The excitement didn't stop there. On our return to the marina, we enjoyed a show from a family of dolphins near Beaufort. ​The trip was a perfect blend of adventure, learning, and natural beauty. Captain Mark is a wonderful guide, and we would absolutely book with him again. We're already planning our next trip down!

    Photo of Justin Dalton

    Justin Dalton

    August 27, 2025

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