The state has several major ports such as Wilmington, Morehead City, and Beaufort that are popular departure points for cruises. These ports offer a variety of cruises, including:
- Coastal cruises: These cruises depart from Wilmington, Morehead City, and Beaufort and sail along the coast of North Carolina, visiting destinations such as the Outer Banks, the Crystal Coast, and the Cape Lookout National Seashore.
- Dinner cruises: Some companies offer dinner cruises along the coast of North Carolina, which include live entertainment and a meal.
- Harbor cruises: These cruises depart from Wilmington, Morehead City, and Beaufort and sail to destinations such as the Cape Fear River, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the Bogue Sound, where passengers can see historic ships, lighthouses, and the city's skyline.
- Dolphin-watching cruises: These cruises depart from Wilmington, Morehead City, and Beaufort and sail to destinations such as the coast of North Carolina, where passengers can see different types of dolphins and other marine life.
- Fishing cruises: These cruises are focused on fishing, and they offer the opportunity to catch different types of fish along the coast of North Carolina. They can vary in duration from a half-day to a full day, and typically include a guide.