For Those Who Have Visited Shackleford Banks Before
Journey to the Past: Ye Olde Cemetery & Beyond…
Graveyard on Shackleford
The trees are silent on the shore
And from the few time-rotted stumps
Which mark our fathers' resting place
There grow thick vines and briar clumps.
Tribal chief meets family head
In time rolled back through many doors
Ancestral Bankers talk tonight -
The trees are silent on the shore. --Gretchen Guthrie from "Carteret Love Song"
Embark on a voyage through time as we transport ourselves back a couple of centuries to explore The Old Cemetery on Shackleford Banks, the only one of the two on this pristine island. In homage to those who came before us, we'll pay our respects to the departed before embarking on a scenic hike through the maritime forest, leading us to a tranquil clearing on High Hill. If the day permits, our adventure will continue as we descend to the plateau just beyond the dunes, shielding us from the North Atlantic Ocean. Here, we hope to catch sight of the wild horses indulging in the nourishing green grasses. Time and energy permitting, a stroll over the dunes will grant us a breathtaking view of the Sea. Our path will be mindful, following the trails carved out by the island's wild horses, residents for 400-500 years.
While the hike may pose challenges in terms of length, weather conditions, and insect activity, the reward lies in the sheer beauty and seclusion of this Custom Excursion—an exploration rarely ventured by others who visit the island.
This exclusive eco-tour private boat excursion caters to the intrepid and those familiar with Shack, providing a distinctive experience. Passengers are advised to consider additional physical requirements, so a preliminary call to Captain Mark at 202-369-1063 is recommended before securing reservations. It's essential to note that this exploration is not designed as a shelling tour.
The beach or the boat provides alternative spots for those less inclined to hike. Captain Mark can arrange a dining table on the boat, allowing guests to bask in the sun, enjoy the vibrant waters, and possibly catch a glimpse of dolphins or the wild horses passing by.
Special Pricing: $699 for up to 4 passengers. Add $30 for passengers #5 and #6. Duration: 5 hours. Departure time 10:30am. Available Wednesday through Sunday. For your convenience, complimentary parking is available at Coral Bay Marina in Morehead City.
Photos by Captain Mark. The Cemetery and the wild horses at the plateau
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Whale Creek Exploration
If you've visited Shack before, perhaps with H2O Captain, what's next on the agenda? Passengers frequently inquire of Captain Mark, "Where do the horses find water to drink?" To their surprise, I elucidate the various places where fresh water can be sourced. One might assume that Whale Creek is the answer, but here's the twist – there is no Whale Creek! Nonetheless, the spot, particularly during low tide, is right on the beach where an aquifer surfaces. It operates incessantly, but its purity is evident at low tide, confirmed by a handheld refractometer.
Upon anchoring the H2O Captain boat in the sheltered waters along Shackleford Banks, a 20-minute walk leads us to Whale Creek and its clandestine puddle. Here, we may witness up to two herds competing for a specific freshwater "pool." Captain Mark has observed two stallions engaging in a fierce struggle for their herd's priority in drinking. It can be quite intense. However, when only one herd is present, a more orderly rotation unfolds within the social hierarchy.
Before securing your spot for this adventure, please reach out to Captain Mark at 202-369-1063, as the timing must align with the tides to encounter our wild horses at this unique location. From $569 for up to 4 passengers, with an additional $30 for passengers #5 and #6. Complimentary parking is available at Coral Bay Marina in Morehead City for your convenience.
Photo by Captain Mark of the wild horses at Whale Creek
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Serenity Now
Indulge in the ultimate blend of relaxation and tranquility with our Serene Getaway Private Excursion! Envision the H2O Captain boat gracefully anchored in the turquoise waters just off the beach, setting the stage for a serene experience as we eagerly anticipate the potential arrival of the wild horses. Pack a delectable lunch, and we'll furnish a roomy, iced cooler for you to stow it away during this exclusive private adventure. An idyllic Bahamian-inspired spot featuring a carefully placed picnic table nestled among the enchanting Shackleford trees, just a few steps from the water's edge. This secluded oasis promises a private retreat, complete with an all-sandy beach on the sound side – a secure and easily accessible area for individuals of all ages to relish in a refreshing swim. From $569 for up to 4 passengers, with an additional $30 for passengers #5 and #6. Complimentary parking is available at Coral Bay Marina in Morehead City for your convenience.
Photo by passenger Dave Tolley taken at the picnic table looking out to the water
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A Most Secluded Place
The Ultimate Retreat Spot Discover the Hidden Picnic Table on Shackleford! Consider leaving your lunch behind for this exclusive journey, as this secluded picnic spot is discreetly tucked away amidst the cordgrass dunes at the heart of the island. Accessible via a 20-minute walk, it provides unparalleled privacy. Please note that on warmer days, this area can be 10 degrees hotter than our beach landing spot. However, the upside includes a strong likelihood of encountering the renowned wild Shackleford Banker Horses on our way to this unique destination. From $569 for up to 4 passengers, with an additional $30 for passengers #5 and #6. Complimentary parking is available at Coral Bay Marina in Morehead City for your convenience.
Photo by Captain Mark. The wild horses near this Secluded Place
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