Sunset Sailing ILM offers Wilmington, North Carolina’s premier sailing adventure. From romantic sunset cruises on the Cape Fear River to private charters and ASA-certified sailing lessons, we deliver unforgettable moments on the water.
Our Fleet
| Vessel | Type | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carolina Breeze | Catalina 36 | 6 passengers | Sunset cruises, couples |
| Salt Life | Beneteau 40 | 8 passengers | Private charters, groups |
| Wind Dancer | J/105 | 6 passengers | Performance sailing, lessons |
| Island Time | Lagoon 40 (Catamaran) | 10 passengers | Family charters, stability |
All vessels: USCG inspected, licensed captain, safety equipment exceeding requirements.
Sunset Cruises
Classic Sunset Cruise
Duration: 2 hours | Departure: 1.5 hrs before sunset
| Includes | Details |
|---|---|
| Route | Cape Fear River → Intracoastal → Masonboro Inlet |
| Wildlife | Dolphins, pelicans, sea turtles, manatees (seasonal) |
| Landmarks | USS North Carolina, Wilmington skyline, lighthouse views |
| Beverages | Complimentary water, soda; BYOB welcome |
| Photo Ops | Professional captain knows best angles |
Pricing: $75/person (min 2, max 6) | Private charter: $450
Premium Sunset Experience
Duration: 2.5 hours | Includes:
- Artisan cheese & charcuterie board
- Premium wine/beer selection (or BYOB)
- Blankets for cooler evenings
- Professional photos included (digital gallery)
Pricing: $125/person (min 2, max 6) | Private charter: $650
Specialty Cruises
| Cruise | Schedule | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Full Moon Sail | Monthly (full moon) | Night sailing, bioluminescence |
| Dolphin Watch | Daily 10 AM / 2 PM | 95% dolphin sighting rate |
| Fireworks Cruise | July 4, NYE | Best seats on the water |
| Proposal Package | By arrangement | Private, photographer, champagne |
Private Charters
Half-Day (4 Hours)
- Route Customization: Your choice — river, ICW, ocean
- Activities: Swimming, shelling, fishing, exploring
- Masonboro Island — Pristine barrier island beach
- Pricing: $850 (up to 6) | $1,100 (up to 10 on catamaran)
Full-Day (8 Hours)
- Extended Range: Figure Eight Island, Wrightsville, Masonboro
- Picnic Lunch — Catered or bring your own
- Multiple Stops — Shelling, snorkeling, beach time
- Pricing: $1,500 (up to 6) | $2,000 (up to 10)
Multi-Day Adventures
- 2-Day: Cape Lookout / Shackleford Banks (wild horses)
- 3-Day: Outer Banks cruise (Ocracoke, Hatteras)
- Custom Itineraries — Your dream sailing vacation
Sailing Lessons (ASA Certified)
ASA 101 — Basic Keelboat
Prerequisites: None | Duration: 2 days (14 hours)
| Module | Hours |
|---|---|
| Classroom theory | 4 |
| On-water skills | 10 |
| Written exam | 1 |
Outcome: Skipper 20-27 ft keelboat in light-moderate conditions
Pricing: $595 (includes textbook, logbook, certification)
Course Materials:
ASA 103 — Basic Coastal Cruising
Prerequisites: ASA 101 | Duration: 2 days + overnight
Outcome: Skipper 25-35 ft auxiliary-powered vessel in moderate conditions
Pricing: $795 (includes provisions, mooring fees)
ASA 104 — Bareboat Cruising
Prerequisites: ASA 103 | Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
Outcome: Charter 30-45 ft vessel worldwide
Pricing: $1,195 (includes all fees, provisions)
Advanced Materials:
Private Lessons
- Hourly: $125/hr (2 hr minimum)
- Custom Curriculum: Docking, anchoring, spinnaker, heavy weather
- Couples/Family Packages: Discounted rates
Corporate & Group Events
| Event Type | Capacity | Popular Options |
|---|---|---|
| Team Building | 8-30 | Regatta format, multiple boats |
| Client Entertainment | 6-20 | Premium sunset, catered |
| Company Retreat | 10-30 | Half-day sail + strategy session |
| Holiday Party | 20-50 | Fleet raft-up, catering, DJ |
Location & Logistics
Departure Dock: 2100 Marina Drive, Wilmington, NC 28401
Parking: Free at marina (validated)
Check-in: 30 minutes prior to departure
What to Bring: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, light jacket, non-slip shoes
Cancellation: 48 hrs for full refund | Weather cancellations = full refund or reschedule
Sailing Gear Essentials
| Item | Purpose | Buy |
|---|---|---|
| Sailing Gloves | Grip & protection | Check Price |
| Polarized Sunglasses | Glare reduction | Check Price |
| Sailing Knife | Safety tool | Check Price |
| Waterproof Phone Case | Phone protection | Check Price |
| Life Jacket | Safety | Check Price |
| Sailing Watch | Navigation | Check Price |
Why Choose Sunset Sailing ILM?
“Captain Mike knew exactly where the dolphins would be. We saw a pod of 20+ playing in our wake at sunset. Unforgettable.” — Sarah M., Charlotte
“ASA 101 was the perfect blend of classroom and hands-on. Mike and Sarah are patient, knowledgeable instructors. Got my certification and confidence.” — James T., Raleigh
“Proposed to my fiancée on the Premium Sunset cruise. Captain coordinated everything — photos, champagne, perfect spot. She said yes!” — David R., Wilmington
Book Your Adventure
Online: sunsetsailingilm.com/book
Phone/Text: (910) 555-0178
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: Daily 8 AM - 8 PM (seasonal)
The water is calling. Will you answer?
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