With the sound serving as Roanoke Island’s backyard, so who can resist the temptation to head out and play on the water? Set sail or start your engines and venture out to explore the island’s soundside. Several marinas offer docking locations and boat services island-wide to enjoy nautical things to do in Manteo, NC. You can dock your boat there, or if you don’t have your own, meet head boat services and charter boat captains here who will get you on the water. Watersports companies also offer avenues for getting your maritime adventures underway with rentals and tours on sailboats, skiffs, motorboats and other Roanoke Island things to do.
Featured for Your Visit
Charter fishing on the Outer Banks is one of the most popular activities. Thousands of visitors and locals take advantage of the excellent fishing these waters offer, so not surprisingly there are many businesses that can connect you with the sort of charter you're interested in. Without a doubt, the offshore charter boats that go after the Gulf Stream big game of tuna, wahoo, mahi and more are king! You leave early in the morning, and if Neptune is with you, you come back in the afternoon with a bounty of tasty fish. These charters often book out months in advance, so plan ahead. Most of the time, a predetermined group of up to six anglers book a boat, but it is possible to be part of a make-up charter where you'll be paired with others who are booking individually. If offshore boats are king, then the headboats are definitely queen. These charters stay inshore in the sound or near-shore in the ocean, charge by the head (person) and can take 40 or so out for fish such as drum, flounder, blues, spot, striped bass and croaker. There's a mate on board if you need help baiting that hook. These trips are great choices for kids or those of you who might be susceptible to seasickness since they're half-days and within sight of land. You'll also find charter companies here that will take you fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes.
Charter fishing on the Outer Banks is one of the most popular activities. Thousands of visitors and locals take advantage of the excellent fishing these waters offer, so not surprisingly there are many businesses that can connect you with the sort of charter you're interested in. Without a doubt, the offshore charter boats that go after the Gulf Stream big game of tuna, wahoo, mahi...read more
Charter fishing on the Outer Banks is one of the most popular activities. Thousands of...read more
Charter fishing on the Outer Banks is one of the most popular activities. Thousands of visitors and locals take advantage of the excellent fishing these waters offer, so not surprisingly there are many businesses that can connect you with the sort of charter you're interested in. Without a doubt, the offshore charter boats that go after the Gulf Stream big game of tuna, wahoo, mahi and more are king! You leave early in the morning, and if Neptune is with you, you come back in the afternoon with a bounty of tasty fish. These charters often book out months in advance, so plan ahead. Most of the time, a predetermined group of up to six anglers book a boat, but it is possible to be part of a make-up charter where you'll be paired with others who are booking individually. If offshore boats are king, then the headboats are definitely queen. These charters stay inshore in the sound or near-shore in the ocean, charge by the head (person) and can take 40 or so out for fish such as drum, flounder, blues, spot, striped bass and croaker. There's a mate on board if you need help baiting that hook. These trips are great choices for kids or those of you who might be susceptible to seasickness since they're half-days and within sight of land. You'll also find charter companies here that will take you fishing in the nearby rivers and lakes.
Charter fishing on the Outer Banks is one of the most popular activities. Thousands of visitors and locals take advantage of the excellent fishing these waters offer, so not surprisingly there are many businesses that can connect you with the sort of charter you're interested in. Without a doubt, the offshore charter boats that go after the Gulf Stream big game of tuna, wahoo, mahi...read more
Charter fishing on the Outer Banks is one of the most popular activities. Thousands of...read more
Pirate's Cove Yacht Club & Marina
Boating & Sailing in Manteo, NC
2000 Sailfish Drive, Docks at Pirate's Cove Marina, Manteo
Looking to get out on the water? Crystal Dawn, docked at Pirate's Cove Marina on the Nags Head/Manteo Causeway, is a comfortable, 65-foot, double-decker party boat / head boat that's all about good times on the water. Whether you want to take the kids fishing in the sound and around Oregon Inlet or gather up your friends and family for a party cruise around Roanoke Island, they have got you covered. For sightseeing on the sound, Sunset Cruises are offered from 6 to 7:30 pm nightly in April, May, September and October. During the summer season in June, July, and August cruises are from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Along the way you'll see lighthouses, historic sites, working watermen and wildlife like birds and dolphin. Crystal Dawn is available for private charters for birthday and anniversary celebrations, bachelor and bachelorette parties, small weddings, school groups, ashes at sea ceremonies, family functions and more. The boat can accommodate up to 100 passengers. On one of their half-day head boat fishing trips, you'll catch fish such as flounder, croaker, spot, trout, sea mullet, sea bass and more, depending on the season and conditions. All bait, tackle and licenses are furnished, and this is a great way to introduce kids to fishing. The on-board mate can help with everything. They limit the number of passengers on fishing trips to 50 for the comfort of all passengers. Ask about other tours, including the 4th of July Fireworks Cruise and Purple Martin Excursions in late July and early August.
Looking to get out on the water? Crystal Dawn, docked at Pirate's Cove Marina on the Nags Head/Manteo Causeway, is a comfortable, 65-foot, double-decker party boat / head boat that's all about good times on the water. Whether you want to take the kids fishing in the sound and around Oregon Inlet or gather up your friends and family for a party cruise around Roanoke Island,...read more
Looking to get out on the water? Crystal Dawn, docked at Pirate's Cove Marina on...read more
Boating & Sailing in Wanchese, NC
4457 Mill Landing Road, Wanchese
Playful dolphins are some of the most intriguing coastal creatures. If you want to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat in the sound, take a tour on Harbor Star. Based at Wanchese Marina, the wide and stable 50-foot Harbor Star runs two-hour cruises multiple times a day, including sunset. A good thing about this boat is its wide canopy that provides a shady retreat from the summer sun! Cost is $20 for adults and $15 for kids ages 12 and younger (infants ride free). Look for the boat at the docks by The Landing Grill, and be sure to enjoy a meal or snack there if you're hungry.
Playful dolphins are some of the most intriguing coastal creatures. If you want to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat in the sound, take a tour on Harbor Star. Based at Wanchese Marina, the wide and stable 50-foot Harbor Star runs two-hour cruises multiple times a day, including sunset. A good thing about this boat is its wide canopy that provides a shady retreat from...read more
Playful dolphins are some of the most intriguing coastal creatures. If you want to see...read more
Boating & Sailing in Wanchese, NC
708 Harbor Road, Safe Harbor Marina, Wanchese
Paradise Dolphin Cruises operates the Kokomo, a 40-foot catamaran that carries 40 passengers and offers a comfortable ride with a canopied top, cushioned seats and a restroom. The boat's location at Safe Harbor Marina offers the closest access to the waters where these amazing creatures are most often found. Paradise offers four two-hour dolphin trips daily plus sunset cruises. As you search for dolphins, you'll also enjoy the local scenery and learn about the other wildlife you will encounter. The boat is handicapped accessible and is available for private parties and catering. Reservations are required for dolphin tours and sunset cruises so call ahead.
Paradise Dolphin Cruises operates the Kokomo, a 40-foot catamaran that carries 40 passengers and offers a comfortable ride with a canopied top, cushioned seats and a restroom. The boat's location at Safe Harbor Marina offers the closest access to the waters where these amazing creatures are most often found. Paradise offers four two-hour dolphin trips daily plus sunset cruises. As you search for dolphins, you'll also...read more
Paradise Dolphin Cruises operates the Kokomo, a 40-foot catamaran that carries 40 passengers and offers a...read more
Boating & Sailing in Nags Head, NC
2000 Sailfish Drive, Nags Head/Manteo Causeway, Manteo
Just about every afternoon between 4 and 5 p.m., a dozen or more sport fishing boats return from the Gulf Stream to the Pirate’s Cove Marina to unload their catches of tuna, dolphin, wahoo and other deep-sea fish. If you’re interested in seeing the fish before they’re cleaned, head down to the docks and watch the mates hurl the whopping creatures onto the docks. Kids love this, and the anglers are friendly about sharing their experiences of the day.
If you’re more of a hands-on type, escape from the same old beach routine and head over to Pirate's Cove Marina and Yacht Club to experience the thrill of a lifetime fishing from one of their offshore charter boats. Your adrenaline will be pumping listening to the scream of the drag while you are reeling in your tuna, dolphin, wahoo and marlin. Or book a near-shore trip and drop deep to catch tile fish, sea bass, trigger fish and grouper, or troll for Spanish mackerel and bluefish. No matter what you choose, Pirate's Cove’s charter fleet will show you a great time. Back at the docks you can stop by the Pirates Cove Ship's Store, where you'll find a great selection of t-shirts, resort wear, gifts and one of the best selections of sunglasses on the Outer Banks. Or you can visit Mimi's Tiki Hut, a dockside bar open in the warmer months, and Blue Water Grill & Raw Bar, a full-service restaurant on the second floor overlooking the marina.
The Pavilion at Pirate's Cove Marina is home base for three renowned summer fishing tournaments – Pirate's Cove Billfish Tournament, Alice Kelly Memorial Ladies Only Billfish Tournament and Dare County Boat Builders Foundation Tournament – as well as other events. The Pavilion is the largest venue on the Outer Banks and is available for rental, including 24-hour rental, for weddings and other events. A variety of accommodations are available on-site through Pirate's Cove Realty.
Just about every afternoon between 4 and 5 p.m., a dozen or more sport fishing boats return from the Gulf Stream to the Pirate’s Cove Marina to unload their catches of tuna, dolphin, wahoo and other deep-sea fish. If you’re interested in seeing the fish before they’re cleaned, head down to the docks and watch the mates hurl the whopping creatures onto the docks. Kids...read more
Just about every afternoon between 4 and 5 p.m., a dozen or more sport fishing...read more
Whether you enjoy the thrill of parasailing or the excitement of a Waverunner, it's waiting for you at Causeway Watersports. This adventure mecca is on the Nags Head/Manteo Causeway (look for the 30-foot observation tower near Basnight’s Lone Cedar Cafe). They offer Jet Ski rentals and tours and pontoon boat rentals so you can be your own captain of a dolphin tour. For a great deal...read more
Boating & Sailing in Manteo, NC
The Sea'scape is a beautiful 41' ketch that takes guests on private sailing charters in the Roanoke and Albemarle sounds. Tours leave from the downtown Manteo boardwalk. Co-captains Dan and Katherine Bottjen (both Coast Guard-licensed charter boat captains) can take up to six passengers out at a time. Since these are private charters the only people on the boat (besides the captains) will be you...read more
Boating & Sailing in Manteo, NC
Coastal Sols offers private day sails and sunset sails on Pelican, a beautifully restored and well-kept 35-foot Hinckley Custom Pilot built in 1964. With a spacious cockpit, galley and dining table, the boat accommodates personalized cruises with drinks, charcuterie boards and music. They also offer an option for a chef-prepared dinner at anchor after your sail. A sail on this boat is a great way...read more
Boating & Sailing in Manteo, NC
Downeast Rover is a 55-foot topsail schooner offering sailing tours into the Roanoke Sound daily. The ship’s home berth is right on the Manteo waterfront, and several restaurants are close by if you want to pick up a meal or snacks to take on your cruise. You’ll see Roanoke Island and Nags Head from the water plus birds of all kinds and perhaps some dolphin....read more
Boating & Sailing in Manteo, NC
Kitty Hawk Kites has been teaching the world to fly since 1974. With 10 retail locations from Corolla to Ocracoke, Kitty Hawk Kites boasts an impressive selection of kites, flags and spinners, toys, apparel, gifts and games on the Outer Banks. Kitty Hawk Kites specializes in kites, from the single-lines for kids to high-tech stunt varieties. The stores also sell fun outdoor goodies such as...read more
To access Croatan Sound, N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission operates a boat ramp at Manns Harbor on the western side of the old Manns Harbor bridge. Plentiful parking is available for vehicles with trailers, and there are three launching lanes and courtesy docks.read more
Boating & Sailing in Manteo, NC
A great place to stroll and pass some time is the boardwalk that winds along most of the Manteo waterfront. One end is quiet, with benches that look out over the sound and marsh grasses tickling the edges of the walk. The boardwalk stretches from Marshes Light development marina to downtown Manteo, past Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse and a children’s playground with swings and a pirate...read more
