Local guide · Wilmington
Cape Fear Riverboats (Henrietta)
Since 1987, the Henrietta has carried visitors on narrated cruises from downtown Wilmington’s Riverwalk past the Battleship North Carolina and the port. The boat is named for the Cape Fear’s pioneering 1818 steamboat.
Why families go
Visitors love the captains’ narration and the views of downtown, the port and wildlife. Bald eagles are spotted on some trips. It’s an easy, steady hour on calm water, so seasickness isn’t a concern. The enclosed, climate-controlled lower deck makes it a rain-or-shine option. Pair it with the battleship using a combo ticket, or follow a sunset cruise with dinner downtown.
Don’t miss
- The 1-hour sightseeing cruiseNarrated, past downtown, the battleship and the port.
- The Black River nature cruiseBlackwater cypress swamps, in season.
- A Battleship comboCruise and battleship admission together.
- The sunset cruiseA 1.5-hour evening trip with a full bar; best for older kids and adults.
Another river cruise
Another good option from the same Riverwalk: Wilmington Water Tours, a few doors down at 212 S. Water St., runs 50-minute narrated cruises on a fully enclosed catamaran with an accessible restroom, plus specialty history and blackwater nature trips (wilmingtonwatertours.net).
Photo: Cape Fear Riverboats
Before you go
- Runs rain or shine. The upper deck is open-air; the lower deck is enclosed and climate-controlled.
- Wheelchair users can board the lower deck by ramp; the top deck and onboard restrooms aren’t accessible.
- No outside food or drink; refillable water bottles are fine.
Plan your visit
- Where: 106 S. Water St., Wilmington, NC 28401 (Riverwalk dock)
- From Topsail: About 45–50 minutes from central Surf City.
- Hours: Daily cruises in season; see the online schedule.
- Admission: Paid; child rates; very young children free with an adult.
- Tickets: Cruise schedule and tickets
- Official site: capefearriverboats.com
- More nearby: more family fun in Wilmington
A short drive from the island. Browse our Topsail Island vacation rentals, all cared for by our local team.
Based on official information from the attraction and on recurring themes in public reviews; checked October 2026. Hours, seasons and prices change, so confirm before you go.