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From Seed To Table

North Carolina Oyster Trail Aquaculture Tours

This excursion focuses on the cultural and economic history of oyster harvesting in North Carolina. Our tour will introduce the importance of oyster cultivation, and how this industry benefits water quality, contributes to habitat restoration, provides living shorelines, increases estuarine resources, and creates coastal resilience.

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Visit the Oyster Seed Nursery

Your adventure will start with a visit to the Three Little Spats Oyster Seed Nursery at the Turkey Creek dock to view and learn about the oyster aquaculture process. The presentation will cover oyster biology, permitting, challenges and benefits of mariculture.

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View Oyster Farms in the Estuary

Next stop will be at an operating oyster farm where you will view water column shellfish aquaculture techniques and learn about the regulatory, maintenance, and harvesting processes of this sustainable industry.

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Sample and Compare Oyster Tastings

Passengers will have an opportunity to shuck and sample oysters for comparison tastings while at the farm and in comfort on your private chartered vessel.

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What You Can Expect

  • Coastal Eco Adventures will be launching a 19’ Hurricane 198 FunDeck (fiberglass tri-hull) from Soundside Park in Surf City. Maximum capacity for Oyster Tours is limited to five (5) passengers.

  • Complimentary concierge pick up and drop off service by automobile is offered from New Hanover County, Leland, and Hampstead areas to Soundside Park. This service will provide a stress-free excursion without the worry of high season parking and traffic issues for our guests. Other locations may be negotiated.

  • The two to three-hour boat excursion will begin with a visit to the Three Little Spats Oyster Company on Turkey Creek. Passengers will  get a first hand look at  the oyster aquaculture process starting with the oyster seed nursery. The presentation will cover oyster biology, permitting, challenges and benefits of mariculture.

  • Next stop will be at a working oyster farm. Here you will view water column shellfish oyster farm techniques and learn about the regulations, maintenance, and harvesting processes of the industry. Passengers will have an opportunity to sample oysters on the boat.

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Important Information & What to Bring:

  • Times are approximate and subject to change due to weather, tides, wind and current.

  • Start off on the right foot. Wear closed-toe shoes that will stay on your feet. Shoes may get wet and muddy!

  • Safety First! All passengers will be provided with a life jacket that is required to be worn while on the boat.  Passengers must feel comfortable on a boat, and should be able to walk unassisted on an uneven gravel path at the oyster nursery. This tour may not be advisable for those with mobility or balance issues. Please discuss with us in advance any concerns you and those in your party may have.

  • Come Prepared. We will be out on the water, it will be cooler than when on land. Please dress appropriately for the weather. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen (or SPF 50 Clothing), rain jacket/wind breaker, and bug spray.

  • Reduce. Re-use. Recycle. Water in a single-use plastic bottle is highly discouraged. Water and reusable containers will be provided along with a cooler and ice. You may bring your own reusable water container.  Help us cut down on single-use plastics.

  • Bring your own favorite snacks and beverages. Adventure can work up an appetite! Feel free to bring your own snacks and favorite beverages including wine/beer on board. 

  • Order Oysters Ahead. Oysters will be available from Carolina Beach Oyster Company, and must be ordered in advance of the trip. Call for more information regarding this service! 

  • Tip! A camera and binoculars will enhance your experience.

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The NC Oyster Trail is a grassroots effort from people who love our state’s oysters. Oysters play an important role in coastal communities. In the environment, oysters improve water quality and create habitat for other animals. Their unique flavor makes them a desirable dish, supporting the livelihoods of watermen and local economies across the state.
 

Our mission is to provide experiences that help sustain and grow N.C. oysters, resulting in economic, environmental and social benefits to the state’s seafood industry and coastal communities. The North Carolina Coastal Federation and North Carolina Sea Grant, in partnership with the North Carolina Shellfish Growers Association, administer the NC Oyster Trail.

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Enjoy FREE Transportation

All tours offer Complimentary Auto Transport to Launch Site - Coastal Eco Adventures offers complimentary pick up and drop off service by automobile to the tour launch site from New Hanover County, Leland, and Hampstead areas. This service provides a stress-free excursion for passengers without high season parking and traffic concerns.

Call 704-560-1500 for more information regarding this complimentary service!

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