Destination Wrightsville | What to do: Watersports

With more than 300 000 boats registered in North Carolina waters boating is one of the state’s most popular pastimes. If you’re spending time on Wrightsville Beach at some point you’ll most likely find yourself on a boat or other watercraft. And if somehow you don’t but want to here are some tips on how to make it happen!

From scenic cruises to tours to rentals Wrightsville Beach offers many exciting ways to enjoy the pristine waters of the Carolina coast. Whether setting sail or starting your engines there’s fun to be had for all ages.

If you brought your boat with you there are specific regulations for Wrightsville Beach. All watercraft in operation must be equipped with each of the following: registration personal flotation devices fire extinguishers sound-producing devices flame arrestors ventilation exhaust mufflers and lights (from sunset to sunrise).

While in the water all watercraft must operate at reasonable speeds depending on the conditions and given situations. All must decrease to no-wake speed while entering passing or leaving state-controlled fishing or boating access areas.

Watercraft passing close to swimming areas moored boats or boats engaged in fishing servicing buoys or markings or similar activities must reduce their speed to prevent their wash or wake from causing damage to swimmers other occupants of the area or other watercraft.

Vessels operated in North Carolina waters must slow to no-wake speed when passing within 100 feet of a law enforcement vessel that is displaying a flashing blue light unless the vessel is in a narrow channel. Vessels in a narrow channel must slow to no-wake speed when passing within 50 feet of a law enforcement vessel that is displaying a flashing blue light.

When approaching another watercraft stay to the right. Sailboats not under power and boats propelled by oars or paddles have the right-of-way over motorboats. Small pleasure craft must yield to large commercial vessels in narrow channels.

If operating a watercraft adhere to all waterway markings or buoys that give the speed limit warn of danger zones or mark areas where boating is prohibited.

Finally be prepared. Know the water conditions before you set out. Be alert for notifications of changing conditions or current restrictions. The most successful trips to sea are those where all members of the crew pay attention work together and take every precaution to stay safe.

Visitors to the area looking for powerboat rentals will find a nice variety to choose from. Services are all pretty standard depending on the type and size craft you want to rent.

NautiTimes’s flat bottom Carolina Skiffs (center console) rentals available in 17- and 19-foot models are shallow draft craft that can be loaded with all the amenities for cruising diving and fishing to have a perfect day on the water. Prices start at $175 for as little as half a day or for multiple days (which includes a 10-percent discount too).

For those wanting more boat Entropy Boat Rentals has center console options from 17-20 feet. Rental boats come with U.S. Coast Guard approved safety equipment as well as marine radios compass and inshore/near-shore maps. Their 10-boat fleet — all Sea Mark boats built in Rocky Point — is available for half-day full-day or weekly rentals. Prices start at $195 for a six-hour (one-half day) excursion.

For those needing more power Reliant Marine offers a wide variety of sizes — from 18-37 feet skiff to luxury with a head (toilet). A half-day starts at $225 and can top out at $799 for the 37-footer. Multiple days bring a 30-percent reduction in price.

Rental pickup or delivery can be at your cottage at the town municipal dock or any place in between. All the rental locations take credit cards and handle the training and checkout needed for a safe day on the water. Don’t forget the sunscreen!