Pirate's Cove Marina in Manteo, North Carolina is a full-service sportfishing destination offering deep-sea charters, scenic dockside views, and access to the storied waters of the Outer Banks.
Pirate's Cove Marina has long been one of the premier sportfishing hubs along the North Carolina coast, drawing anglers from across the country to the productive Gulf Stream waters accessible from Manteo. The marina sits at a natural crossroads between the sounds and the Atlantic, giving captains relatively quick access to offshore fishing grounds that yield marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi, and wahoo throughout the warmer seasons.
The facility itself is well-equipped, featuring slips for both transient and resident vessels, fuel docks, and a full range of amenities that make extended stays comfortable for serious fishing crews. Charter fishing is the heartbeat of the operation, with a fleet of experienced captains offering half-day, full-day, and offshore trips tailored to different skill levels and target species. Families new to saltwater fishing find the staff approachable and knowledgeable.
Beyond fishing, Pirate's Cove Marina serves as a pleasant destination in its own right. The waterfront setting offers views across the sound toward the marshes and barrier islands that define this stretch of the Outer Banks. The marina's restaurant provides a relaxed spot to enjoy a meal with the water close at hand, and the dockside atmosphere carries an easy, convivial energy that reflects the character of the broader Manteo community.
For anyone drawn to the working waterfront culture of coastal North Carolina, Pirate's Cove Marina offers a genuine and rewarding experience rooted in the region's deep connection to the sea.
Visit during the annual Pirate's Cove Billfish Tournament in summer to witness one of the Outer Banks' most celebrated sportfishing events and soak in the competitive dockside atmosphere.
Arrive at the docks early in the morning to watch charter boats depart at sunrise, which is one of the most photogenic moments the marina has to offer.
Bring a light jacket even in warmer months, as the breeze off Roanoke Sound can be cooler than expected, especially in the early morning and evening hours.
Try the local seafood at the waterfront restaurant on site, where freshly caught fish often makes its way onto the menu the same day it was pulled from the water.
Walk the docks after the charter fleet returns in the afternoon to see the day's catch being weighed and to speak with experienced captains about the fishing conditions offshore.
Ride a 1-hour airboat eco-tour with two stops, weather permitting
Ride an airboat to Outer Banks sandbars, private islands, and Bodie Island Lighthouse stops
Cruise Roanoke Sound at sunset on a private water shuttle
Parasail above the Roanoke Sound with flights up to 10–12 minutes