The tidal creeks and inlets around Wrightsville Beach and Figure Eight Island are a labyrinth of sandbars, marshes and hidden beaches. Many vessels can’t access these spots, but Eleanor, Cape Fear Charter Club’s Hinckley Picnic Boat 36, was designed for exactly this type of exploration. The photos below show Eleanor anchored on a shoal with ease thanks to her shallow draft and water‑jet propulsion.
Design features that unlock the inlets
- Shallow draft and “zero‑draft” innovation: Hinckley’s water‑jet propulsion and hull design allow the boat to skim across water only a few feet deep. Owners note they can quickly skim across shallow areas and sneak ashore at forgotten beaches without worry. The ability to drop a swim platform in inches of water lets passengers step directly onto sandbars and remote islands.
- JetStick® control for effortless maneuvering: Hinckley’s JetStick 4 integrates joystick steering with automatic boat‑holding functions. Experienced operators praise that JetStick becomes an extension of their boating intuition, enabling precise control in narrow creeks and anchorages. Navigating winding channels like Mason’s Inlet becomes easy and stress‑free.
- Quiet, smooth ride: Water‑jet propulsion eliminates exposed propellers, reducing vibration and allowing a whisper‑quiet cruise. In Hinckley’s SilentJet description, owners highlight how they depart the marina with only the sound of water passing by, making conversations comfortable even while underway.
- Spacious deck and swim platform: The Picnic Boat 36’s open cockpit offers cushioned seating, shade and a large swim platform perfect for lounging at anchor. A shallow boarding ladder enables kids and adults to climb aboard after swimming.
Where Eleanor takes you
Cruising aboard Eleanor opens up a world of secluded waterways:
- Figure Eight Island & Mason’s Inlet: Guided SUP tours from Mott’s Channel paddleboarders across calm water to Figure Eight Island, showing that these inlets are shallow and peaceful. Aboard Eleanor, you can relax while a captain navigates the same route, anchoring near sandbars where dolphins often swim. Charter operators note that private boat charters to Masonboro Island, Figure Eight Island and Lea Island are perfect for island hopping, sandbars and dolphin watching.
- Masonboro Island & Lea‑Hutaff Island: Masonboro Island is the largest undisturbed barrier island on North Carolina’s southern coast. It’s accessible only by boat and offers miles of deserted beaches, tidal creeks and wildlife habitats. Charter guides emphasize that all‑inclusive boat charters cruise to Masonboro Island, Mason’s Inlet and Lea‑Hutaff Island, allowing guests to swim in clear shallow waters, relax on the beach or enjoy time on a float pad.
- Calm creeks & hidden beaches: The waterways around Wrightsville Beach include lush salt marshes and channels lined with oyster beds. Local tourism guides encourage visitors to explore these coastal waterways on SUP or kayak tours to discover calm waterways and natural habitats filled with a variety of wildlife. Eleanor offers the same opportunity with more comfort and range, whisking guests to sandbars or quiet coves for picnics and swimming.
Why Eleanor stands apart
While many charter boats operate in the area, Eleanor combines luxury with capability. Her shallow draft means she can anchor close to shore where other powerboats must stay offshore; her JetStick control lets the captain position her precisely over sandbars; and her quiet, stable ride keeps conversations flowing. These features, coupled with Cape Fear Charter Club’s captained service, make Eleanor the perfect platform for exploring Wrightsville Beach’s inlets, spotting dolphins and seabirds, and stepping onto remote islands without ever worrying about tide charts or navigation.
Whether your ideal day involves beachcombing on Masonboro, paddleboarding beside Lea‑Hutaff or enjoying lunch on a sandbar near Figure Eight, Eleanor turns the dream into reality. With the boat’s elegant lines and innovative water‑jet propulsion, shallow‑draft
Contact us today
Speak to us to charter Elenor and explore the tidal creeks and inlets around Wrightsville Beach and Figure Eight Island.
