Departures & Meeting Points
Two launch points. Emerald Isle if you are staying on the island. Swansboro if you are coming from the mainland. Your booking email confirms which one, with parking notes and a number for the morning of.
Emerald Isle Pickup: 6800 Emerald Drive, Emerald Isle, NC 28594. Public water access on the sound side, free parking on site. Most guests staying in Emerald Isle book this pickup. No bridge, no drive to the mainland.
Swansboro Pickup: the public boat ramp beside Clyde Phillips Seafood on West Corbett Avenue. We are the first slip at the ramp. Parking at the ramp. Downtown Swansboro is a short walk if you want coffee or lunch before or after.
Bear Island and Hammocks Beach: camping on Bear Island? We pick up and drop off at the boat ramp docks at Hammocks Beach State Park, 1572 State Road 1511, Swansboro. Book the shuttle online or call before you check in at the park so we can line up the timing.
Need a different launch? Call (910) 421-0013.
You book, we confirm, you arrive ready.
Meeting points are selected to keep the ride smoother, improve safety, and make the trip better based on wind, tide, and boat traffic.
What you’ll receive after booking
Exact meeting location and arrival instructions
Parking guidance and any access notes
A contact number for day-of coordination
Arrival timing
Plan to arrive 15 minutes early for parking and a short safety briefing.
Scheduled Boat Tours
Standard departure location
Scheduled tours leave from Emerald Isle (6800 Emerald Drive, free parking) or Swansboro (the public ramp beside Clyde Phillips Seafood). Pick the one closest to where you are staying.
Your booking email confirms the meeting point, parking, and a day-of number.
If you are camping on Bear Island please call prior to checking in at Hammocks Beach State Park.
Alternate Departure Location
Important: If conditions require a change, the meeting point will still be a public access location and you will be given clear instructions.
Private Custom Charters
Custom charters are inquiry-only because pickup options and timing depend on the plan, group needs, and conditions.
What to expect
You submit a request with preferred dates, group size, and goals
We confirm what’s feasible and provide pickup options if available
Your final meeting point is confirmed in writing before the charter
If you have a preferred area, include it in your inquiry. We will be direct about what’s realistic.
What to Expect at the Launch
Parking and access
Public access points vary. Some have limited parking, seasonal congestion, and walking distance to the ramp or shoreline.
Restrooms
Restroom availability depends on the access point. If restrooms are important for your group, tell us ahead of time and we’ll factor it in when selecting the meeting location.
Accessibility
If anyone in your group has mobility limitations, tell us during booking or inquiry. We will choose the most appropriate access point when possible.
What to bring
Pack Light
Sun protection and water
A light layer during shoulder seasons or evening trips
Closed-toe water shoes for the oyster farm tour
If You Are Running Late
If you think you will be late, contact us immediately using the number in your booking email.
Late arrivals can shorten your time on the water and may result in forfeiting the trip depending on the schedule and conditions
FAQs
Do you always depart from the same place?
No. We select meeting points based on trip type and conditions. Your meeting point is confirmed in your booking email.
Why can the meeting point change?
We may change meeting locations to optimize time on the water or to ensure favorable conditions.
Where do scheduled tours usually depart?
Most scheduled tours depart from Swansboro or Emerald Isle
Can custom charters depart from somewhere else?
Sometimes. Pickup options depend on the plan, timing, and conditions. We confirm feasibility after you submit your request.
Ready to book?
Choose the experience that fits your group and select a date.