Holiday Lights Cruise

A cozy holiday cruise on Wilmington’s waterfront — is it worth the $30? We haven’t done this cruise ourselves, but based on the details and what travelers seem to enjoy, it’s a charming way to celebrate the season without too much fuss. Whether you’re visiting Wilmington during the holidays or just looking for a relaxing evening out, this cruise offers a festive twist on a boat ride.

What we really like about this experience is the welcoming atmosphere—with friendly staff and local musicians setting the mood—and the beautiful views of Wilmington’s waterfront decked out for the holidays. Plus, the full-service bar and holiday treats make it feel more like a holiday party than just a sightseeing trip.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that it’s not a guided tour — it’s more of a social cruise with entertainment, so if you’re after a deep dive into local history or specific sights, this might not be the best fit. Overall, it seems well-suited for those wanting a relaxed, festive evening with friends or family.

If a cozy, music-filled holiday cruise sounds appealing, this experience could be just the ticket. Now, let’s break down what makes it tick and whether it’s worth your time and money.

Key Points

• Festive atmosphere: The boat is decorated for the holidays, creating instant cheer.
• Live local music: Enjoy familiar holiday tunes performed by local musicians.
• Comfortable setup: Heated enclosed space and comfortable seating make it a cozy experience.
• Affordable price: At $30 per person, it offers a festive outing without a big splurge.
• Inclusive amenities: Full bar, holiday treats, and clean onboard bathroom add to the comfort.
• Parking options: Nearby street parking and lots are convenient, with some free after 6:30 pm, though proximity varies.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The Setting and Atmosphere

Imagine stepping onto an enclosed, heated catamaran that’s been decked out with holiday decorations—think twinkling lights, festive ribbons, and a cheerful vibe. The moment you arrive, you’re welcomed warmly by staff, setting a friendly tone for the evening. The boat is designed for comfort, with plenty of seating so you can settle in and relax while cruising along Wilmington’s waterfront.

The full-service bar offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, along with holiday treats that make the experience feel like a seasonal gathering. Whether you’re sipping a cocktail or just enjoying the view, the atmosphere is relaxed and festive. The boat is wheelchair accessible for single non-motorized wheelchairs, which makes it more inclusive than many similar experiences.

The Live Music and Entertainment

One of the highlights is the local musicians playing familiar holiday tunes. This live music adds a lively, warm touch to the cruise, creating an ambiance that’s both joyful and intimate. We’ve heard from other travelers that the music is a real mood booster—familiar songs that evoke holiday cheer.

The Sights and Views

Cruising along the Wilmington Waterfront, you’ll see the city dressed up for the holidays. The dressed-up scenery is part of what makes this experience special—lights reflecting on the water, decorated buildings, and the peaceful flow of the river all contribute to a charming backdrop. Since the cruise is about an hour, it’s a brief but lovely window into Wilmington’s holiday spirit.

Food, Drink, and Treats

The cruise includes holiday treats and a well-stocked bar. The drinks menu features tasty cocktails and non-alcoholic options, perfect for warming up or just enjoying the evening. The treats are typically festive, adding to the celebratory feel—think holiday cookies or small bites, though specifics aren’t listed.

The Practical Details

Boarding is at 5:30 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sunset and then settle in for the cruise. Parking can be straightforward with street meters or lots nearby—some free after 6:30 pm—and the options are not far off. The boat’s amenities include a clean bathroom onboard, which travelers appreciate.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start Point: Wilmington Water Tours LLC

Your adventure begins here, where you’ll meet friendly staff ready to welcome you aboard. The cruise runs on Friday and Saturday nights, from late November through December 30th, making it an ideal holiday outing.

The Cruise: Spirit of the Holidays

The cruise lasts about an hour, providing a relaxed pace to take in Wilmington’s waterfront decorated for the holidays. As you cruise along the Cape Fear River, you’ll enjoy the sights, sounds, and tastes of the season. The live music, combined with the festive décor, turns a simple boat ride into a celebration.

Highlights and Considerations

• Music and atmosphere: The live local musicians playing holiday tunes add a warm, communal feeling.
• Holiday treats: Included in the ticket—perfect for adding some extra cheer.
• No guided tour: Keep in mind, this cruise does not include narration or sightseeing commentary. It’s more about enjoying the mood and scenery.
• Nighttime ambiance: The evening timing is perfect for seeing Wilmington’s holiday lights, but be prepared for the potentially chilly weather if it’s a cold night.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included

• Holiday treats and snacks
• Live music performed by local musicians
• An admission ticket (which grants access to the boat and entertainment)
• Access to the full-service bar (with cash, debit, and credit accepted)
• A friendly crew ready to make your evening special

Not Included

• Guided commentary or sightseeing narration
• Specific sightseeing stops or tours—this is purely a scenic cruise
• Tipping is optional but customary for crew and musicians

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive by 5:30 pm to get settled before departure.
• Park nearby: Street parking is available at meters for $3/hour, free after 6:30 pm, or consider the private lots or parking decks for convenience.
• Dress warmly: Even though the boat is heated, outdoor views are best enjoyed when bundled up, especially in late fall or winter.
• Bring cash or cards: The bar accepts both, but it’s wise to have a bit of cash for tipping or additional treats.
• Accessibility: The boat is wheelchair accessible for a single-size non-motorized wheelchair, making it accessible for some travelers with mobility needs.
• Weather considerations: The experience is weather-dependent, with a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to poor weather.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This holiday lights cruise is best suited for those looking for a relaxed, festive evening. It’s perfect if you enjoy live music, scenic views, and holiday ambiance without a lot of fuss. Families with older children, couples, or groups of friends will find this a lovely seasonal outing. It’s not a guided tour with historical insights, but rather an enjoyable celebration of Wilmington’s holiday spirit.

If you’re craving a cozy, cheerful time on the water, and don’t mind a brief cruise, you’ll likely find this experience charming. Keep expectations realistic—this isn’t a destination-focused tour but rather a delightful way to soak in the holiday atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Holiday Lights Cruise offers a simple yet warm way to experience Wilmington’s waterfront during the holiday season. The combination of festive décor, live local music, and scenic views makes it a festive outing for those looking for a bit of holiday cheer. The ticket price is reasonable for what’s included, especially considering the drinks, treats, and ambiance.

It’s best suited for travelers who value atmosphere over sightseeing or historical commentary. If you’re after a laid-back event that captures the spirit of the season while cruising along a beautifully decorated waterfront, this could become a favorite holiday tradition.

Just remember, since it’s weather-dependent and not a guided tour, it might not be ideal if you’re seeking detailed information about Wilmington’s landmarks or a warm-weather outing. However, if you’re looking for a cozy, music-filled holiday experience, this cruise provides a relaxed and enjoyable way to celebrate.

FAQ

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible? Yes, it is wheelchair accessible for a single-size non-motorized wheelchair.

How long is the cruise? The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour.

What is included in the ticket price? Your ticket includes holiday treats, live music, and access to the bar, along with the scenic cruise itself.

Are drinks available onboard? Yes, the full-service bar offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, accepting cash, debit, and credit cards.

Is parking nearby? Yes, parking is available on the street (metered, free after 6:30 pm), or in private lots and parking decks nearby.

What about the weather? The experience is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I bring my service animal? Yes, service animals are allowed onboard.

Are children allowed? The experience is open to most travelers, but it’s especially suitable for older children who can enjoy the scenic, musical, and festive setting.

When does the cruise run? It’s available on Friday and Saturday nights, from late November through December 30th.

What should I wear? Dress warmly, especially in late fall or winter, since you’ll be outside for parts of the cruise and in a heated but potentially chilly environment.

If you’re after a cozy, cheerful way to celebrate the holidays on Wilmington’s waterfront, this cruise might just be the perfect fit. It’s a simple, enjoyable experience that captures the season’s spirit without any fuss—ideal for a relaxed night out or a lovely holiday tradition.