It’s for the Birds!  The Birds of Cape Lookout National Seashore

First of all, what and where is the Cape Lookout National Seashore?  This is a National Park located in the State of North Carolina which encompasses three undeveloped and uninhabited barrier islands on the southern Outer Banks along the Crystal Coast.  The first is Shackleford Banks, located east of Emerald Isle and Atlantic Beach.  The other two are North and South Core Banks.  These are part of North Carolina’s Outer Banks.  At the Southern end of South Core Banks the Cape Lookout Lighthouse is hosted.  North Core Banks hosts the site of the deserted village of Portsmouth, which was the first town established on the Outer Banks.  All together these islands make up a 56 mile-long section.

This National Park is only accessible by private or commercial boat. If you intend to hire a boat and a Captain, both would require a National Park Permit and be inspected by the U.S. Coast Guard.

Most visitors are attracted to The Park to experience the Wild Horses of Shackleford Banks or to discover great shelling opportunities.  But to round off a trifecta of ecotour outdoor activities at this beautiful seashore, birdwatching must be a part of your plans.

Below is a tabulation of the birds of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Feel free to write to Captain Mark atThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., a National Park Permittee and Owner/Operator of H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions, to ask specifically which birds, such as Sparrows, warblers, Sandpipers, vultures, etc., are prevalent and in which season on these barrier islands.

Photo by Captain Mark and Courtesy of H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions

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"Shellebrate" on Shackleford Banks on the Crystal Coast in North Carolina

Some of the best shelling in NC, and indeed on the Atlantic Coast, is located on Shackleford Banks in the Southern Outer Banks of NC.

It is on this uninhabited, except for the wild horses who have resided here for the past 400-500 years where you will find 8.25 miles of pristine beach containing an abundance of shells including:

•The Official Seashell of NC, the Scotch Bonnet (Note: difficult to find fully intact)

• The Official Seashell of Virginia, the Eastern Oyster (same as Mississippi)

• The Official Seashell of SC, the Lettered Olive

• The Official Seashell of Georgia, the Knobbed Whelk

• and on a lucky day The Official Seashell of Florida, the Horse Conch

Other shells to be found are:
Bay Scallops, The Atlantic Moon Snail also called Shark's Eye, Atlantic Jackknife Clams, Queen or Empire Helmets, Coquinas, Lightning Whelks, Sand Dollars, Augers, Florida Fighting Conch, and Wampum, etc.

The best times of the day to find shells for your collection are on an ebb tide, at times of low visitation by humans for example between Memorial Day through Labor Day, after a storm, or when you find yourself at the beach.

To avoid the crowded eastern and western shores of Shackleford, where ferries offload up to 50 tourists at a time, consider engaging a private boat captain. They can guide you to the less-traveled central areas of the island, away from the ferry routes. However, it’s important to choose a captain who holds a National Park Permit, as Shackleford is protected under the National Seashore regulations. Before embarking, verify their permit, which is typically displayed as a decal on the boat’s windshield. These authorized boats can accommodate 1-6 passengers and offer personalized tours, including guided walks to the island’s prime shelling locations.

H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions proudly stands among the select group of operators granted a National Park Service permit. To ensure an exclusive and environmentally conscious shelling adventure, reach out to them directly. You can secure your booking by visiting https://h2ocaptain.com or by calling 202-369-1063. As part of their commitment to sustainability, every group embarking on a shelling excursion receives a complimentary reusable shelling bag to cherish as a memento from their eco-friendly journey.

Happy Shelling! 😊

Photo Courtesy of H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions

The Turtles of Cape Lookout and Shackleford Banks at the Crystal Coast, NC

Shackleford Banks as well as Cape Lookout is a renowned nesting ground for four distinct sea turtle species: the Loggerhead, Kemp’s Ridley, Green, and Leatherback turtles. These magnificent creatures deposit between 80 to 150 eggs, carefully camouflaging their nests with sand using their hind flippers. Approximately 59 days later, the hatchlings, each about two inches in length, must excavate their way out of the nest and embark on a perilous trek to the sea, dodging predators like seagulls and ghost crabs.

To safeguard these vulnerable nests, The National Park Service staff, which gives its permit to H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions to bring passengers to both the Cape and Shackleford Banks, diligently patrols the beaches daily. During the critical incubation period, nests are encircled with white PVC pipes to shield them from vehicular harm and facilitate monitoring. Additionally, plastic screens fortify the nests against predatory interference and erosion due to wave actions. Visitors to Cape Lookout National Seashore are urged to respect these conservation efforts by steering clear of marked nesting sites, which its tour guides will show you, ensuring the undisturbed development of the next generation of sea turtles. 🐢🌊

Illegal Boat Charters

The goal of uncovering illegal charters, whether illegal fishing or sightseeing boat charters, is to ensure public safety by detecting and deterring illegal passenger vessel operations through a robust on-water presence, education and outreach, termination of unsafe operations, and justified enforcement actions.

Combating illegal passenger vessel operations is a persistent and dynamic issue the U. S. Coast Guard faces throughout the country and here in North Carolina around Cape Lookout and Shackleford Banks. Illegal passenger vessels may be dangerously overloaded, operated by an unlicensed and inexperienced individual who is more likely to engage in negligent operations due to a lack of training, lack of adequate safety or lifesaving equipment, and failure to comply with vessel maintenance, repair, and construction safety standards.
The Coast Guard urges the public to exercise caution before operating or chartering a vessel.

“It’s important the public be aware of the dangers associated with illegal passenger vessel operations and immediately report signs of illegal operations to the Coast Guard,” said Lt. Cmdr. Sonha Gomez, chief of investigations for Coast Guard Sector Maryland-National Capital Region. “Not only is it against the law, unlicensed operators and uninspected vessels pose a significant risk to passengers and other boaters on our waterways.”

For their safety, paying vessel passengers are asked to consider these key questions:
• Does the vessel have a Coast Guard licensed master aboard?
• Does the vessel have proper documentation and safety equipment aboard?
• Is the master enrolled in a Department of Transportation Drug and Alcohol Testing program?
• If carrying more than six passengers, does the vessel hold a valid Certificate of Inspection issued by the Coast Guard?
• Does the vessel display an up-to-date UPV Inspection Decal?
• Does the vessel display other permits, an annual pass, e.g. an up-to-date National Park Service permit?

Owners and operators of illegal passenger vessels can face maximum civil penalties of $60,000 or more for illegal passenger-for-hire operations and over $100,000 for violating a Coast Guard Captain of the Port Order. Moreover, a violation of a Captain of the Port Order is a felony, punishable by up to six years in prison or fines up to $500,000.

To report illegal operations or for information regarding charter operations or passenger vessel regulations, please contact Coast Guard Sector North Carolina, or other locations throughout the USA or go to http://illegalcharters.com/.

Please note that H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions is a legal charter company that operates in the Crystal Coast of NC, including Emerald Isle, Atlantic Beach, Morehead City, and Beaufort, NC areas. Ask Captain Mark for any/all of the key elements above.

Be safe out there as we embark on Memorial Day and the summer season!

For the Coastal Visitor: Embracing the Ocean’s Grip at The Crystal Coast, NC

Embarking on a Nautical Journey: Imagine yourself aboard a small powerboat, the cool embrace of the sea caressing your skin. As you inhale deeply, the briny zest of the ocean air mingles with your breath, a flavor as ancient as time itself. Your gaze is met with a kaleidoscope of blues and greens, while the sun’s rays perform a shimmering ballet upon the undulating waves.  Or, as the tune by Otis Redding, "Sittin' on the Dock of the Bay" goes:

I'm sittin' on the dock of the bay
Watching the tide roll away
Ooh, I'm just sittin' on the dock of the bay
Wastin' time

The Ocean’s Allure: What is it about the sea that beckons passengers of all ages? Its hues, reminiscent of the depths and the skies, evoke feelings of serenity, vastness, and sagacity. Science is now uncovering what we’ve always felt: our brains are intrinsically attuned to water’s presence, finding solace, connection, and a wellspring of creativity and healing in its proximity.

Water’s Spiritual Essence: Across the globe, water is revered as a source of life and vitality. It’s not uncommon for seekers to traverse many US States for a chance to see waters believed to be charged with not only pastoral colors but serenity. Water, in its boundless grace, is thought to carry our hopes, purify energies, and offer its curative powers.

The Emotional Voyage: Navigating through water on a modest craft can stir a spectrum of emotions. There are moments of profound peace and stillness, and times when the sea’s might summons focus and awe. From the tranquil river to the majestic ocean, each body of water can evoke feelings ranging from serene contemplation to exhilarating joy and respectful wariness.

The H2O Captain Experience: Join us at H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions, where each journey is a transformative odyssey. Our guests depart our marina docks feeling rejuvenated and enriched. We cherish the magic of uniting people with the water, crafting unforgettable experiences that resonate long after the voyage ends.

Step aboard and share in this aquatic passion. Your adventure awaits. Embark on Your Water Odyssey: Book Your Journey today. Welcome aboard!

Photo of the sunset over the Crystal Coast, NC by Captain Mark, H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions

The Cape Lookout Lighthouse

2024…another year when the Cape Lookout Lighthouse, located at the most southern point in the beautiful Outer Banks and Crystal Coast of North Carolina, will be closed to the public for climbing, the Lightkeeper’s House, located directly in front of the Lighthouse is open. The Lighthouse is expected to be open again at the earliest in 2027!

That house however was not the original Lightkeeper’s House. Interestingly, the Lighthouse as we know it today also was not the original Cape Lookout Lighthouse!

The First Lightkeeper's Quarters was built in 1812. This Keeper's Quarters was built at the same time as the first Cape Lookout lighthouse. The house was to be 24 feet by 24 feet and one and a half stories tall. Each of the three rooms had a fireplace which fed into the chimney in the center of the house. The exterior was made of pine and covered with pine or cedar shingles. In 1869, this house received extensive repairs.

A kitchen was to be built at least 6 feet away from the house and connected with a covered walkway. The proposal request indicated that this kitchen should be 14 feet by 16 feet and one-story tall. A well was also part of this request.

It is unknown how long these structures remained standing. Photographic records indicate that the Keeper's Quarters remained standing at least until 1893. Part of the foundation of this dwelling can be seen on a sand dune in the lighthouse area. Sadly, the structure was destroyed.

The Second Keeper's Quarters, the one that we know today, was built in 1873. Soon after the second Cape Lookout lighthouse was completed, Assistant Keepers were assigned to the station. A new Keepers' Quarters was built in 1873 to accommodate these keepers. The house was designed as a single-family residence, but by the early 1900s, all three keepers were living in this building. In response to complaints that their families could not be with them, a new Head Keeper's Quarters was built in 1907. The two Assistant Keepers and their families then shared the 1873 dwelling.

Today, this Keepers' Quarters serves as a museum, giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of Lighthouse Keepers and Surfmen of the US Life-Saving Service, now the US Coast Guard. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week during the spring, summer, and fall.

H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions offers journeys from Morehead City to the Lighthouse across the North Atlantic Ocean. As the sole powerboat operator authorized by the National Park Service for this route, Captain Mark will guide you to anchor near the beach by the Lightkeeper’s house. From there, he'll lead you ashore, providing a guided tour of the Lighthouse and its surroundings.

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Explore the Majesty of Shackleford Banks: Tips for Viewing the Wild Horses

Shackleford Banks, on North Carolina's Crystal Coast, home to 110-130 wild horses, boasts a captivating sight of nature's beauty. These majestic creatures roam in groups known as "harems," comprising stallions, mares, and foals, as well as "bachelor bands," which consist solely of stallions. While they traverse various parts of the island, encountering them might require some trekking unless you're accompanied by an authorized National Park Service tour guide, such as those provided by H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions. Remember, these horses are wild beings, self-sufficient in finding sustenance and protecting themselves from threats. To them, humans and dogs pose a potential danger, and they may react defensively if approached too closely, resorting to charging, kicking, or biting.

For the safety of both you and your furry companion:
• Maintain a safe distance when observing the horses. If a horse stops and gazes directly at you, halt your approach. If the horse begins to move away, you're already within their comfort zone.
• Equip yourself with binoculars and a telephoto lens to observe without disturbing the horses or risking your safety.
• Keep your dog leashed at all times, not just for their safety but also for the well-being of the horses, as mandated by law.
• Carry an ample supply of fresh water for yourself and your pet.

Maintain a viewing distance of at least 50 feet, roughly equivalent to the length of a large bus. Should the horses approach you, step back or, if that's not possible, remain still until they pass by. Always yield to the horses, giving them the right-of-way.

Disrupting the horses' natural behaviors like grazing, drinking, or resting can jeopardize their social dynamics and overall health. Moreover, wild horses and other wildlife do not recognize human food as suitable nourishment.

Feeding them or leaving food scraps can harm their well-being, so it's crucial to refrain from such actions.
Feeding, touching, teasing, or intentionally disturbing wildlife, including the wild horses, is both perilous and illegal, potentially leading to legal consequences.

Accessing the pristine barrier island of Shackleford Banks requires authorization from the National Park Service. We recommend booking your adventure with an authorized permittee such as H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions for an unforgettable journey.

Photo Courtesy of passenger David J from an H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursion

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Keep your Eye on the Prize:  Photographing the Wild Horses of Shackleford Banks, Crystal Coast, North Carolina

Keep your gaze fixed on the eyes of the horse, while keeping a distance of at least 50 feet. Engaging in a direct eye-to-eye connection with a wild horse can be exhilarating, an unforgettable experience that truly captivates. The magic intensifies when you manage to capture the wild horse’s gaze directed straight at you. Just like photographing a person, focusing on the eyes is paramount.

Pay close attention to the lighting conditions and their source. The direction of light dictates whether adjustments to your camera settings are necessary or if you need to request your guide to reposition the people for optimal angles, while always considering the safety of the horses as well as the humans.

Maintain a steadfast focus on the horse’s eyes through your camera lens or smartphone. Utilize features such as focus tracking or face detection if available to ensure sharpness. The eyes are the storytellers, breathing vitality into your photographs.

Opt for shooting from a low perspective rather than a high one. Lower angles, captured from ground level, if possible, or with an upward tilt, tend to yield more impactful results. They accentuate the animal's size and presence, creating a striking silhouette. Consider employing a monopod—a single-leg tripod—to stabilize your camera and achieve leveled shots, even from the confines of the horse trail you are probably standing on!

To travel to Shackleford Banks along the Crystal Coast of NC you will need boat transportation and a knowledgeable Captain to escort you on land to assist in finding the elusive wild horses.  We recommend H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions.  https://h2ocaptain.com.  Or call Captain Mark directly at 202-369-1063 who has been walking and studying this uninhabited, undeveloped, barrier island for a decade.

Photo Credit:  Jill Jordan Imagery

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The Cape Lookout National Seashore

The United States boasts 423 National Parks, encompassing 88 ocean and coastal parks, national wildlife refuges, and other public lands under the management of the Department of the Interior.

In Morehead City, nestled between Emerald Isle and Atlantic Beach along North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, residents are fortunate to have one such National Park: Cape Lookout National Park, a unique combination of ocean and coastal landscapes.

Among the attractions drawing visitors to this region, which spans from Swansboro to Beaufort, NC, is the opportunity to encounter the legendary wild horses of Shackleford Banks. These horses, believed to have inhabited the island for centuries, offer a captivating glimpse into the area's natural heritage, along with ample opportunities for shelling on the barrier island.

Accessing Shackleford Banks is limited to two options: either by ferry, accommodating up to 49 passengers, which disembarks on the sound side of the island, or by private charter boat. H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions holds a National Park Service permit, serving as the official tour guide for both boat and land excursions to observe the wild horses and explore the island's treasures. Their USCG Licensed Boat Captain anchors the vessel, accompanying visitors on foot for an enriching and educational experience.

As of the end of 2023, the population of wild horses on Shackleford Banks numbered 117, predominantly comprised of females (62%) and males (33%). Among the elder equines aged 17 years and older, 23 are females, while only one is male. The island's eldest inhabitant is a 29-year-old mare, with five foals born during the spring and summer months. Remarkably, these horses roam freely across the island, unrestricted by enclosures.

Spring emerges as an ideal time to visit Shackleford Banks, characterized by minimal human activity, the blossoming of wildflowers, and the vibrant greenery of cordgrass—a true renaissance of nature inviting all to partake in its splendor.

Photo:  Two wild horses on the banks of Shackleford. Courtesy of H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions

Understanding Nautical Nomenclature

What is the difference between a nautical mile and a knot?
The nautical mile measures distance and the knot measures speed.

Nautical Miles
Nautical miles are used to measure the distance traveled through the water. A nautical mile is slightly longer than a mile on land, equaling 1.1508 land-measured (or statute) miles. The nautical mile is based on the Earth’s longitude and latitude coordinates, with one nautical mile equaling one minute of latitude.

But why use a different measurement system for marine navigation? Using latitude and longitude coordinates is more practical for long-distance travel, where the curvature of the Earth becomes a factor in accurate measurement. Nautical charts use latitude and longitude, so it’s far easier for mariners to measure distance with nautical miles. Air and space travel also use latitude and longitude for navigation and nautical miles to measure distance.

The word “mile” might leave you wondering if there’s a “nautical kilometer,” too. There’s not. The international nautical mile is used throughout the world. The measurement was officially set at exactly 1.852 kilometers in 1929 by what is now known as the International Hydrographic Organization. The U.S. and the United Kingdom both used slightly different measurements after that time, but the U.S. adopted the international nautical mile in 1954 and the U.K. in 1970.

Knots, on the other hand, are used to measure speed. One knot equals one nautical mile per hour or roughly 1.15 statute mph.

The term knot dates from the 17th century, when sailors measured the speed of their ship using a device called a “common log.” The common log was a rope with knots at regular intervals, attached to a piece of wood shaped like a slice of pie. Mariners would lower the wood piece into the water and allow it to float freely behind the ship for a specific amount of time (often measured with an hourglass). When the time was up, they would count the knots between the ship and the piece of wood, and that number estimated their speed.

At H2O Captain Eco-Tour Private Boat Excursions, Captain Mark teaches boat handling, including docking and anchoring as well as local knowledge for mariners in the Beaufort, NC area on either the H2O Captain vessel or your own. The H2O Captain’s boat's top speed is approximately 40 knots at just under 6000rpm!