Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where do we go to load Book A Cruise Pontoon?
A: The address put in for directions is to the DoubleTree Hotel in New Bern; however, we suggest you park behind Truist bank. Looking at the DoubleTree Hotel go to the right (between Skysail condos and DoubleTree Hotel). Go to the flag pole, you will see B Dock of New Bern Grand Marina on the Riverwalk. Take a right and go towards the train tracks. You will see A Dock, directly behind Skysail condos. Pick up is next to A Dock.
Q: Are your tours wheelchair and walker friendly?
A: Yes, please message us if you need additional assistance. Our captains will assure you and your loved one boards with ease.
Q: Do children ride free?
A: No, USCG regulations limit 6 customers on board each tour; therefore, children and infants are included and charges are per head.
Q: What is your refund policy if 2 River Cruises has to cancel due to weather, safety, or a Captain became unavailable?
A: You will receive a full refund.
Q: What if I need to cancel 1 or all of my reservation ticket (s)?
A: We have a 48 hour Cancellation Policy. In order to receive a refund or to reschedule your trip, you must contact us at least 48 hours prior to your scheduled departure date. If you are unable to reschedule and your event is more than 48 hours out, there will be $3 processing fee for each ticket. The Wix program charges us processing fees for each transaction order placed that does not get reimbursed when refunded as well as a refund fee for refund transaction.
Q: Do we need to bring our own lifejackets?
A: Lifejackets are supplied, children 13 and younger are required by USCG to wear a PDF 1 life vest.
Q: Is Alcohol allowed on Book A Cruise Boat tours?
A: No
Q: What if our trip is cut short due to weather?
A: Credit will be given at a prorated rate based on time for another cruise, or a monetary discount reimbursement,
Q: Are any snacks or drinks provided during the event?
A: On HOT days bottled water is available, but we do not provide food. You are encouraged to bring plenty of water to stay hydrated. You may bring snacks on the cruise.
Q: What can we expect during the cruise?
A: This is a tour for fun, adventure on the rivers, relaxing, sightseeing of nature, wildlife, and waterfront homes up the Trent River, Brice's Creek, and up part of the Neuse River.
*If you want to hear about some of the history of the rivers, be sure to ask the Captain.
Q: What type of wildlife could be seen during the cruise?
A: Alligators, Deer, Dolphins, Mallard ducks, rare Neuse River waterdog (Necturus lewisi), a salamander found only in the Neuse and Tar-Pamlico river basins, Sea Gulls, Warblers ducks during migration, Herons, Osprey, American Wigeon duck, Muscovy ducks,
The Neuse River is home to the rare Neuse River waterdog (Necturus lewisi), a salamander found only in the Neuse and Tar-Pamlico river basins.
​The Trent River is known for its diverse fish population, including species like catfish, eels, sturgeon, perch, large-mouth bass, and needle-nose gar.
Here are some history tidbits of New Bern on the water:
New Bern evolved from a Tuscarora village to a thriving colonial port and the state's first capital; named it after Bern, Switzerland; major seaport, facilitated trade with New England, and the West Indies; the banks of the Trent River were lined with marine industries, including wharfs, boatbuilders, warehouses, and fish shops.
New Bern's Alfred Cunningham Bridge is only one of 11 remaining drawbridges in the state. He was a US Marine Corps officer and aviator, born in Atlanta, Georgia. The airfield at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point is named after him: Cunningham Field.
Union Point served as the site for commercial sawmill operations, seafood processing and naval stores.
Baxter clock located on Pollock Street is extremely rare; it is one of three Seth Thomas post clocks still in use
Sudan Temple- In the 1950’s Elvis and his small band performed here. Future plans to tear it down due to codes
Hatteras Yachts is further up the Neuse River past the train trestle.
Films-New Bern has been a backdrop for three films including "A Bend in the Road," "The Wedding" and "The Notebook."
The Neuse—The River of Peace- derived from the Native American Neusiok tribe and translating to “peace” the longest river in NC, 6 miles wide, 275 miles long, depth 8-12 feet.
The Tuscarora War, a conflict between European settlers and the Tuscarora and other Native American nations, erupted on the banks of the Neuse River after years of growing trade tensions.
The Tuscarora were ultimately defeated in a battle at Fort Neoheroka, and many survivors migrated north to rejoin the Iroquois League or to South Carolina.
New Bern, NC was severely impacted by Hurricane Florence in September 2018, experiencing record flooding, storm surges, and significant damage to homes and businesses, resulting in over $100 million in damages, Tryon Riverfront Inn just opened up after much damage from Florence.
Barbour Boat Works was noted for its high-quality work, and built numerous naval and Coast Guard vessels starting in World War II, along with commercial tugs, tankers and barges, as well as private pleasure craft which is now the following museum.
North Carolina History Center: This modern museum, located adjacent to the palace, offers dynamic exhibits and hands-on activities that delve into the stories of North Carolina's people, environment, and culture, The area features a waterfront patio and beautiful river views, with Lawson's On The Creek offering a deli-style cafe. Not directly on the River- Tryon Palace was completed in 1770 and served as the first permanent capitol of North Carolina and was home to Governor Tryon and his family.
Lawson Creek Park has The Marsh walk, which was originally a 400-foot boardwalk, has been extended to nearly a quarter mile, offering scenic views of the coastal marshes.
Croatan National Forest U.S. National Forest, was established on July 29, 1936 160,000 acres have pine forests, saltwater estuaries, bogs and raised swamps, home to the carnivorous Venus fly-trap, deer, black bears and turkeys to wading birds, ospreys and alligators.