Mahanaim Adventures (Wilmington, NC)

Mahanaim Adventures in Wilmington, NC offers various adventure opportunities/locations in the Cape Fear area. Their adventures also vary in length, from 3 hours to 4 and 7 hours. Prices are very reasonable. They also offer kayaking with camping & hiking available as well. They are open 362 days/year, 7 days a week. Check their website for times. There are half day & full day rentals and single & tandem kayaks available. So whether you are an individual or a group, experienced or beginner, Mahanaim Adventures has an adventure for you. Corporate Team Building is also available (details on their website). They will provide you with all the gear you need to enjoy your adventure. You need to bring a water bottle, clothing that can get wet, water shoes, a hat and sun screen & bug spray. I brought my own PFD and paddle (Aqua Bound Tango 4-piece with a carbon handle) because it is super light weight and easy to travel with.

So, I signed up for the 3 hour Eagle Island Adventure, which was approximately 5.5 miles. We launched from the Riverwalk Park in Belville, NC. Once launched we crossed over the Brunswick River which is pretty open and exposed to wind conditions. On this day, it was quite windy, approximately 15-20 mph. However, when we reached the other side we were somewhat protected by the salt marshes along the Alligator River. Our guide , Don Harty (owner) was excellent and knew the best places to paddle, especially since our group included a very young boy. Don spoke of the history of the area throughout the tour. He is a very knowledgeable and friendly tour guide. He also made it a point to take pictures of all of us and share them afterwards. Eagle Island is a misnomer, it is named for the Eagle Family, one of the original developers/owners of the island. Although we didn't see Eagles, we did see many osprey and an alligator that swam directly in front of us, in spite of the chilly water/weather. Overall, this was an awesome trip and I can't say enough good things about Don. So, if you are in the Wilmington, NC area and are looking for an adventure, check out Mahanaim Adventures. You will not be disappointed.