The Windfall is a 57' traditional gaff-rigged schooner offering daily cruises from Ocracoke, North Carolina. She is inspected and certified by the U.S. Coast Guard for up to 30 passengers. Although she looks and sails like the schooners that plied these waters in a bygone era (or, according to some, like a pirate ship!) she is fully equipped with all the modern conveniences to ensure your safety and comfort.

Home Port of Ocracoke, North Carolina

Windfall sails from the Community Store dock in Ocracoke village from May through October. We offer up to three one-hour cruises per day as well as a 1.25-hour sunset cruise. We sail on the sheltered waters of Pamlico Sound in the vicinity of Teach's Hole where the infamous pirate Blackbeard (a.k.a. Edward Teach) was defeated and beheaded in 1718. The captain always points out the spot where Blackbeard died and is happy to tell passengers as much as they want to know about Blackbeard and some of the other pirates who used Ocracoke as a hideout. While passengers are welcome to assist with hoisting sail and steering the schooner if they wish, it's not required of them as the crew can, and often does, handle the vessel without help.

The one-hour trips are $20 for adults, $10 for children aged 4 through 11, and free for children under 4. The sunset cruise is $25 per person regardless of age. There is no sales tax and passengers may pay as they board with cash or check. Sorry, we do not accept credit cards.

For space availability and reservations, come to the boat and sign up or call us at (252) 928-SAIL.

Private Charters

The Windfall may be chartered for private groups of up to 30 on an hourly basis. Rates vary depending on dates and times.

Weddings

The captain is an ordained minister of the Universal Life Church making it legal for him to officiate at weddings. There is no extra charge for this service when the schooner is chartered for the event. We've put together a brief secular ceremony that many couples have used, but will be happy to work with the involved parties to tailor it to their preference (within limits: we draw the line somewhere short of live animal sacrifices!).

Gift Certificates

A sunset sail for two on the Windfall goes hand-in-hand with a bottle of good wine for the perfect gift for loved ones visiting Ocracoke. Gift certificates are available for the regular fare.