There is something different about being able to set your own course, choose your own stops, and spend the day on the water without following somebody else’s schedule. At Nauti Times Boat Rentals, we offer self-captained boat rentals in Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach, NC, for experienced boaters who want that freedom. Our Carolina Skiff boat rentals are also available for half-day, full-day, multi-day, and longer trips, giving families, friends, anglers, and vacationers an easy way to explore the Intracoastal Waterway, Masonboro Island, Cape Fear River, nearby beaches, and waterfront destinations at their own pace.
Captain Your Own Boat and Explore on Your Schedule
Our self-drive boat rentals are designed for people who are comfortable operating a powerboat and want more independence than a traditional captained cruise provides. Instead of following a fixed route, you can decide whether the day is about fishing, beach-hopping, waterside dining, water sports, or simply cruising the ICW.
We have spent more than 17 years helping boaters enjoy the Wrightsville Beach and Carolina Beach areas. That local experience helps us make the rental process straightforward while giving customers useful information about the boat, nearby waterways, and the equipment included before they head out.
Carolina Skiff Boat Rentals Built for Versatility
Our fleet includes reliable 21-foot center-console Carolina Skiff boats powered by 140 HP four-stroke engines. These boats are well suited for cruising local waterways, finding quiet beaches, fishing the ICW, and enjoying a day with family or friends.
Each boat can accommodate up to 10 people and comes equipped for a practical day on the water. Our goal is to give renters a capable boat without making them bring every basic piece of boating equipment themselves.
Boat Rentals Near Masonboro Island
One of the biggest advantages of renting locally is spending less of the day traveling just to reach the places you actually want to enjoy. Our Wrightsville Beach location near the Seapath Yacht Club and Causeway Drive area puts customers just minutes from Masonboro Island and other popular ICW destinations.
That central position can mean less wasted fuel and more time swimming, relaxing, fishing, or exploring. Masonboro Island is a favorite destination for boaters looking for a more secluded beach experience away from the busier mainland shoreline.
Carolina Beach Rentals Near the Cape Fear River
Our Carolina Beach service area gives boaters convenient access to another side of the local waterway system. With access near Carolina Beach State Park Marina, renters can quickly reach sections of the ICW, the Cape Fear River, nearby beaches, and other waterfront destinations.
That location works well for customers staying in Carolina Beach, Wilmington, or surrounding communities who do not want to spend unnecessary time trailering or repositioning a boat. It is a practical starting point for both casual cruising and fishing trips.
ICW Fishing Boat Rentals
A Carolina Skiff can be a strong fit for anglers who want to fish the Intracoastal Waterway without booking a full charter. Our boats include features such as rod holders, a live bait well, a depth finder, and room for gear, making them useful for a relaxed fishing day with friends or family.
Fishing conditions and target species can vary by season, tide, and location, so renters should plan accordingly. Our role is to provide a reliable rental boat and equipment that gives experienced boaters flexibility to fish on their own schedule.
Long-Term Rentals and Delivery Options
Some customers need more than a standard one-day rental, particularly during longer vacations or extended stays near the coast. We offer long-term rental options for qualifying customers who want access to a boat over a longer period.
Delivery services may also be available depending on the rental and location. This can be useful for customers staying outside our primary pickup areas or looking for self-captained powerboat rentals near the Topsail Beach area and other nearby coastal communities.
What Comes With Your Rental
We equip our boats with the essentials needed for recreation, navigation, and general boating convenience. Before departure, our staff can walk you through the boat and answer questions about the onboard equipment.
Included equipment may feature:
- Bimini top for shade
- Life jackets and flotation devices
- Two anchors
- Depth finder
- Live bait well
- Rod holders
- Nautical charts
- Center-console layout with room for passengers and gear
We also offer optional rental extras such as tubes, water skis, wakeboards, and knee-boards. Those additions can turn a regular day of cruising into a more active day on the water.
Half-Day, Full-Day, and Multi-Day Boat Rentals
Not every group needs the same amount of time on the water. Half-day boat rentals can be a good fit for a shorter cruise, beach visit, or fishing session, while full-day boat rentals give you more time to explore several stops without rushing.
For longer stays, we also offer multi-day boat rentals and long-term boat rentals. These extended options can be especially convenient for vacationers who want regular water access throughout their trip instead of arranging a separate rental every day.
Add a Captain if You Prefer
Self-captained rentals are a great fit for experienced boaters, but not everyone wants to operate the boat themselves. If you would rather relax and let someone else handle navigation and operation, ask us about adding a captain.
Having both options lets groups choose the experience that best fits their comfort level. Some customers want complete independence, while others simply want to enjoy the water without thinking about operating the boat.
Convenient Extras Before You Leave the Dock
Getting on the water is easier when you do not need to make several stops first. Our locations offer free parking and convenient access to fuel, helping simplify the start and end of your rental.
Customers can also pick up water, drinks, snacks, ice, and other extras before heading out. That convenience helps you spend more of your rental time boating instead of trying to track down supplies after departure.
Rental Policy
- Prior boating experience is required
- No reservation will be valid until you receive a confirmation by phone from a Nauti Times Boat Rentals staff member.
- Boating restricted to the intracoastal waterways (ICW) from Carolina Beach to Topsail Island. Other areas negotiable depending on boaters experience.
- To comply with all United States law as it applies to the operation and regulations of water vessels.
- To pay appropriate service charge for any service required as a result of their carelessness or neglect in respect to the boat.
- To return the boat in the same condition as when first rented and to reimburse the Owner for the cost of repairs and service in respect to any and all damages.
- To be responsible for any legal costs or expenses connected with the collection of any debts incurred due to any damages to the boat during the rental period.
- The rental of the boat does not include gas.
- Rates and terms are subject to change without notice.
- Renter shall provide a valid credit card to act as a security deposit should any damage to the vessel occur.
- BE RESPONSIBLE, AND HAVE A GREAT DAY ON THE WATER
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do self-captained boat rentals cost?
Pricing depends on the rental length, boat availability, season, and any optional extras. Contact Nauti Times Boat Rentals for current half-day, full-day, multi-day, and long-term rental pricing.
Do I need boating experience to captain the boat myself?
Self-captained rentals are best suited for customers who are comfortable operating a powerboat. We can discuss experience requirements and the rental process before booking so you know what to expect.
How many people can ride on the Carolina Skiff?
Our 21-foot Carolina Skiff boats can accommodate up to 10 people. Actual comfort can depend on the number of passengers, gear, and how you plan to use the boat during the day.
Can I take a rental boat to Masonboro Island?
Our Wrightsville Beach location provides convenient access to Masonboro Island and other nearby ICW destinations. Boaters are responsible for operating safely and following applicable navigation and access rules during the rental.
Can I rent a boat for several days?
Yes. We offer multi-day and longer-term rental options in addition to half-day and full-day rentals. Contact us with your dates so we can discuss availability and the best rental arrangement.
Take the Helm and Make the Day Your Own
A day on the water is better when you have the freedom to decide where it goes. At Nauti Times Boat Rentals, our self-captained boat rentals give experienced boaters flexible access to Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, Masonboro Island, the ICW, Cape Fear River, and all the surrounding coastal destinations without the cost or responsibility of owning a boat. Plus, with 21-foot Carolina Skiffs, convenient locations, optional water-sports equipment, long-term rentals, and more than 17 years of local experience, we make it easier to enjoy coastal North Carolina your way. So don’t wait: be sure to contact Nauti Times Boat Rentals today to reserve your boat and start planning your time on the water.