The Downeast Rover crew is excited about another great season on the Outer Banks! We take sailing charters and reservations from May through October. If you would like to reserve your seat on any of our daytime or sunset cruises or inquire about a private sailing charter on the Outer Banks, please book online or contact us via phone: 252-473-4866.
We look forward to sailing with you! As the day ends and the evening begins, join the crew of the Downeast Rover and experience the natural splendor of an Outer Banks sunset cruise. OBX was voted 5th best location in the U.S. to watch a sunset, by USA Today. So reserve your front row seat today! Leave reality behind as you climb aboard the 55-foot topsail schooner, moored at Manteo's waterfront.
We look forward to sailing with you! As the day ends and the evening begins, join the crew of the Downeast Rover and experience the natural splendor of an Outer Banks sunset cruise. OBX was voted 5th best location in the U.S. to watch a sunset, by USA Today. So reserve your front row seat today! Leave reality behind as you climb aboard the 55-foot topsail schooner, moored at Manteo's waterfront.
Services
Before you plan your sailing charter, explore the ship! Take a look at the fun our guests and our crew are having as they cruise the Roanoke Sound from downtown Manteo. We love being able to share the beauty and perspective that sailing the open waters can give. Some of our guest have NEVER been aboard a sailboat before, so we make it our goal to provide a safe, enjoyable time for every passenger.
Step off the docks of Roanoke Island and set sail on the Downeast Rover for a unique, exciting and unforgettable cruise. The Rover hosts regular daily sailing cruises. There is a limit set by the US Coast Guard of a max of 25 people for each tour. Everyone is counted in this total including children, infants and seniors.
Over the last 23 years, we've entertained thousands of guests with our private charters on the Rover. From water-loving locals to vacationers looking for the ultimate sailing experience, nothing is quite like relaxing away the summer hours on the Downeast Rover. With gentle waves caressing the boat and sweet breezes across the sound, allow the Downeast Rover crew to take you on a memorable sailing cruise.
The OBX has been voted by USA Today as the 5th best location in the United States to watch a sunset. Join us for a leisurely sound cruise to witness a spectacular site. There is no finer place to relax and celebrate the end of a perfect day at the beach. Adults are encouraged to bring a beverage of choice to toast the end of a special day or special occasion.
A visit to the Outer Banks would not be complete without a chance to meet the Rover. Built in 1984 by Shon Walter of Rover Marine Yachts in Norfolk, VA, the Rover is a 55-foot topsail schooner designed by Merritt Walter and built to ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) rules.
Certified for 25 passengers plus two crew members, the Rover is US Coast Guard-inspected; and while modified above deck to accommodate charters, the Rover's cabin features a salon, kitchen, two bathrooms and sleeping for up to six people, making her perfect for any Outer Banks sailing activity.The Rover's hull is welded steel, her spars are aluminum and her sails are tanbark Dacron.
Certified for 25 passengers plus two crew members, the Rover is US Coast Guard-inspected; and while modified above deck to accommodate charters, the Rover's cabin features a salon, kitchen, two bathrooms and sleeping for up to six people, making her perfect for any Outer Banks sailing activity.The Rover's hull is welded steel, her spars are aluminum and her sails are tanbark Dacron.
Reviews (28)
Nicholas Leheney
Oct 01, 2021
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Najib Khan
Sep 30, 2021
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Jen Becker Harrison
Sep 27, 2021
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Lori Duckett
Sep 18, 2021
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Debbie D.
Sep 13, 2021
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Elieen Emblidge
Sep 13, 2021
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Very fun and unique way to spend time on the water. We booked on a Friday night for a sunset tour. The weather didn't fully cooperate, but it was still beautiful.
The first mate does assign your party a seat, fyi.
You can bring your own drinks and snacks. The General Store Stock Aide down the street had wine and champagne cold, so that was a plus!
The captain was very nice, and first mate Ethan was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and fun.
We recommend this sailboat tour.
The first mate does assign your party a seat, fyi.
You can bring your own drinks and snacks. The General Store Stock Aide down the street had wine and champagne cold, so that was a plus!
The captain was very nice, and first mate Ethan was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and fun.
We recommend this sailboat tour.
Josh Backes
Aug 30, 2021
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Michelle Morris Davies
Aug 30, 2021
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Lisa Besharian Walker
Jul 01, 2021
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Marie Landrum Reeves
Jun 19, 2021
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Rita Young
Jun 17, 2021
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Positive: Professionalism, Quality
Took my family and we all had a blast! First mate Tim was hilarious and engaging. He shared some fun local history/facts and kept everyone’s drink filled the whole time. Captain Kim was friendly and kept us at ease. Will definitely be coming back next year! Don’t forget to bring cash for the tip. :)
Took my family and we all had a blast! First mate Tim was hilarious and engaging. He shared some fun local history/facts and kept everyone’s drink filled the whole time. Captain Kim was friendly and kept us at ease. Will definitely be coming back next year! Don’t forget to bring cash for the tip. :)
Evie VanderMeer
May 27, 2021
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Obx Lyfe
Dec 18, 2020
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Absolutely a great trip. The seating is really great. Still feels private and intimate, even though there are other people around. Captain Kim was friendly, knowledge and engaging. The Mate Tim was a absolute riot, helpful, accommodating and answered all of our questions. We brought dinner with us and enjoyed libations, all in the foreground of a gorgeous sunset.
I have lived on the OBX for 20+years, and wish I had done this sooner.
My only complaint would be that Tim is a Oklahoma State football fan. BOOMER
I have lived on the OBX for 20+years, and wish I had done this sooner.
My only complaint would be that Tim is a Oklahoma State football fan. BOOMER
Jody Grantinetti-Svihlik
Oct 20, 2020
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Britney Thornton-Homco
Jul 05, 2020
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Celine W.
Jul 04, 2020
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My husband and I had a wonderful time on the Sunset Cruise on 7/1. It was an incredibly beautiful 2 hour tour. Throughout the cruise, the Captain and Watson provided a very interesting history of Roanoke Island. They were both very personable and enjoyed answering our questions. We were able to take some outstanding pictures of the gorgeous sunset. The sailboat was very nice. This is a classy and very friendly business. We would definitely take this cruise again!
Sarah N.
Jun 22, 2020
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It was so much fun and so peaceful! We took the 4:00pm boat and had 6 people and ended up having the boat to ourselves! It was a great time and the crew was kind and professional 12/10 would do again in a heartbeat! And you can bring your dog! Just make sure to ask first so they can make sure the other passengers are cool with it
James S.
Sep 19, 2019
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Hi fellow sailors!
I took my small family out on a sunset cruise on 09/17/19. It was unfortunately while the Outer Banks was experiencing the effects of Hurricane Humberto! That evening was marginal for sailing so we basically motored both out and in without raising the sails. The waves in the sound were pretty choppy so my group, myself wife, son and daughter-in-laws had been seated in the stern or back of the schooner. for that we were very grateful! The larger groups that were up front got a pretty healthy soaking! But since they were celebrating (read that drinking! lol) they were hooting an
I took my small family out on a sunset cruise on 09/17/19. It was unfortunately while the Outer Banks was experiencing the effects of Hurricane Humberto! That evening was marginal for sailing so we basically motored both out and in without raising the sails. The waves in the sound were pretty choppy so my group, myself wife, son and daughter-in-laws had been seated in the stern or back of the schooner. for that we were very grateful! The larger groups that were up front got a pretty healthy soaking! But since they were celebrating (read that drinking! lol) they were hooting an
Kim B.
Sep 05, 2019
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Kim Deaner Trachtenberg
Jul 26, 2019
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We had so much fun. It was a bit windy and the water was just rough enough to make it a big adventure. The sunset was breathtaking. We enjoyed our wine and cheese. Our only regret was that we did not wait until all of the cousins were here so we will do it again and make sure they are onboard next time!
Debby Knight-Clausen
Jul 23, 2019
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Tara Hanssard
Jun 11, 2019
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My husband Sam and I had an excellent sunset sailing experience this evening. The captain, and his first mate were well experienced, very knowledgeable and answered all questions. We definitely recommend them… for your sailing experience. You won’t be disappointed. On the way back in we got the added bonus of seeing some dolphins. Thank you for making our anniversary amazing. We will be back for another sunset cruise soon.
Dianne An Bill P.
May 25, 2019
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Meg E.
Sep 24, 2018
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The sunset cruise was better than expected! We were originally scheduled to sail on the weekend of Hurricane Florence. We were notified that it was cancelled and received a full refund. We booked the sunset cruise the following weekend and we could not have been happier. There were only two other guests on board in addition to my our party of two but the crew was nice enough to still take us out. The crew on board were very friendly and gave us lots of tips on where to go and what to do on our stay. The sunset was beautiful! We highly recommend this company as the staff was amazing and the sailing
Michael F.
Jul 13, 2018
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I went here with my family including 4 kids from 4-10 years old, along with our friends with a 9 month old. Had a great time. We lucked out and were the only passengers so basically had a private cruise. Captain and crew were friendly from the very start. Pricing was very reasonable, especially since you can bring your own food and booze (though drinking on the boat was much easier than eating). Definitely recommend attraction in the Outer Banks.
Desiree A.
Jun 09, 2018
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The Downeast Rover Sunset Sail was so beautiful. Very relaxing and smooth. The Captain and crew were courteous, answered questions, and were very hospitable to folks who brought food and spirits on the boat with them. The sunset we saw was an absolute bonus. It was a really great night with clouds and a gorgeous orange sunset. There was even another sail boat in the distance, which made for a great photo!
Tip: As with any evening sail, I'd bring a sweater or windbreaker with you.
Tip: As with any evening sail, I'd bring a sweater or windbreaker with you.
Andrew B.
Sep 07, 2017
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Jeff L.
Jul 27, 2017
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Beautiful ship. Great, friendly, knowledgeable crew. Helpful and friendly office staff.
Everything was great on a nice windy day. The ride was tamer than the expected. But, the crew used the time to reach the kids about the rigging, sails, and operation of the boat.
I recommend this for first time sailing and families with kids.
Everything was great on a nice windy day. The ride was tamer than the expected. But, the crew used the time to reach the kids about the rigging, sails, and operation of the boat.
I recommend this for first time sailing and families with kids.
