Spirit of the Holidays Cruise
Passengers cruise the Cape Fear River and take in views of magical lights along the historic Wilmington Riverwalk aboard the 46-foot catamaran, the Wilmington. Guests can listen to local musicians perform live holiday tunes while sampling festive cocktails and light appetizers.
Nov 27 – Dec 30, 2026 All ages
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Plan Your Visit
Tickets
Adults: $30; kids age 3–12: $18; under 2 years: free. Pre-registration is required.
Hours
5:30 PM and 7:00 PM departure times.
Food & Drink
Guests can sample yuletide cocktails and light appetizers on board.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Pre-register as soon as you know your evening, because registration is required and this holiday cruise often sells out.
- Choose your night early, since the holiday cruises only run on select evenings from late November through the end of December.
- Dress warmly for an evening out on the river, since you'll be on the water watching the lights along the Riverwalk.
- Bring the kids, because there are tickets for ages 3 to 12 and children under 2 ride free.
Links & Contact
Run by Wilmington and Beaches Convention & Visitors Bureau
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cruise like?
You cruise the Cape Fear River on the 46-foot catamaran the Wilmington. Along the way you take in the lights along the historic Wilmington Riverwalk.
Is there live entertainment on board?
Yes. Local musicians play live holiday tunes during the cruise.
Is food or drink served?
You get samples of yuletide cocktails and light appetizers while you cruise.
Do I need to book ahead?
Yes. Pre-registration is required, and this cruise often sells out.
Can kids come along?
Yes. There are kids' tickets for ages 3 to 12, and children under 2 ride free.
Browse Christmas in Wilmington
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.