House boat

Wanderlust at The Cove - Luxury Houseboat - Downtown Wilmington

Photo gallery for Wanderlust at The Cove - Luxury Houseboat - Downtown Wilmington

Second floor patio overlooking Cape Fear River and Wilmington Riverwalk
Aerial view of The Cove from the South side
Outdoor dining
First floor open concept living/dining/kitchen
Full kitchen

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 4

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Air conditioning
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Wilmington, NC
  • Riverwalk
    ‪1 min walk‬
  • Wilmington Convention Center
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Battleship North Carolina
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)
    ‪11 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

2 bedrooms (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 King Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo · Hair dryer

Bathroom 2

Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area

About this property

Wanderlust at The Cove - Luxury Houseboat - Downtown Wilmington

Welcome to The Cove, Wilmington's most unique vacation rental community.

Floating atop the Cape Fear River, our Riverwalk Villa community offers an experience unlike any you've had before.

From the gentle rocking of the river, to the peaceful view of the sunset, your stay at The Cove is sure to leave you feeling refreshed, restored, and wanting to return again soon.



@thecove_wilmington (IG)

The space

After parking in our free lot (1 spot per villa) and making the 4 minute stroll down onto the docks of the Port City Marina, you’ll arrive at The Cove, Riverwalk Villas. Secured with dock ties and connected to electricity and water, you'll quickly realize that a stay at our dockside community offers the perfect mix of adventure, luxury and relaxation.

Upon entering your villa, you’ll notice the spacious open concept kitchen/dining/living area and think to yourself, "I should have brought more friends!" (Don't worry, there's always next time.)

Cooking & Eating:
With a dining table that seats four, three benches along the island, and a kitchen stocked with everything you need to make a great meal, you could actually host your next Thanksgiving here. Complementary coffee, creamer and sugar are provided, alongside a drip coffee maker.

Living Room 1:
If cooking isn't your idea of fun, you may be more drawn to the beautifully decorated downstairs living space, where you can relax on the cozy couch surrounded by tall windows that overlook the Marina.

Bathroom 1:
Just past the common area is the first floor bathroom, which features a walk-in shower and full size washer and dryer. Complementary shampoo, conditioner and body wash are provided in each of the bathrooms, as well as laundry pods, dryer sheets, hair dryer and a steamer.

Bedroom 1 (Queen):
Connected by a pocket door is the downstairs bedroom with a Queen bed, large closet, ceiling fan, 40" Smart TV, and access door to the quaint back patio; a great spot for some quiet reading or alone time.

Living Room 2:
As you make your way upstairs, you'll discover another large living space with a 55" Smart TV and a beautiful view of the Cape Fear River through the sliding glass doors.

Upstairs Patio:
Just outside those doors, you'll find yourself on a large patio featuring an outdoor bar (sink & mini fridge), and a variety of comfortable furniture options. This patio is a fan favorite for everything from morning coffee, afternoon reading, evening spirits, or enjoying a meal. In the Summer months, you'll often hear live music coming from Marina Grill, our delicious on-site restaurant, or Live Oak Bank Pavilion Amphitheater, which is only a block away.

Bedroom 2 (King):
Back inside and beyond the living room is the second floor bedroom, featuring a King bed, dresser, large closet, ceiling fan & 55" Smart TV.

Bathroom 2:
The pocket door connects you from the bedroom to the second floor full bath.

Location:

The Cove is located in Port City Marina, which sits on the North end of the Riverwalk in Downtown Wilmington. Just a few steps from the Wilmington Convention Center and one block from both The Wilson Center, and Live Nation's Live Oak Bank Pavilion Amphitheater, a stay at The Cove offers the perfect solution for those wanting to avoid the chaos of parking, event traffic, and needing a DD.

Less than a mile away you'll find the heart of Historic Downtown Wilmington. Whether you choose to stroll along the Riverwalk, take the free trolley, or drive a few blocks down Water Street, getting there is easy. With many local shops, restaurants, breweries, live music, and events, Downtown offers something for everyone to enjoy. Check out our Guidebook or "Wilmington and Beaches" online for recommendations and events.

Beyond the borders of Downtown, a quick 8 minute drive or Uber ride will get you to the Wilmington International Airport (ILM), and within a 10 mile radius you'll find Wrightsville Beach, Jungle Rapids amusement/water park, UNCW (Go Seahawks!) and much more.

If you're interested in bringing your boat, our friends at Port City Marina would love to rent you a slip! Please reach out to them directly to coordinate that for the dates of your stay.

Check in method:
Specific directions including getting to the marina, gate & door codes and wifi information will be messaged to you the morning of your stay.

If this Villa is not available during your preferred time frame, please check out the listings for our other Riverwalk Villas at The Cove, and don't hesitate to reach out for assistance. We would love to have you Stay Afloat!

Property manager

Erin Robinson
Premier Host

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Water view

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
-No flushing of anything other than natural waste and septic safe toilet paper(provided) -Children younger than 12 must be accompanied 24/7 for safety
-Absolutely no swimming allowed - the current in the Cape Fear River is strong and dangerous -No smoking or illicit drugs allowed in the marina
-Failure to return the front door key upon check-out will result in a $300.00 fee

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the area

Wilmington

Located in Downtown Wilmington, a neighbourhood in Wilmington, this houseboat is near theme parks and on the waterfront. Wilmington Railroad Museum and Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Children's Museum of Wilmington and Carolina Heights. Cape Fear Museum and Greenfield Lake Park and Gardens are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Wilmington, NC

What's nearby

  • Riverwalk - 1 min walk - 0.1 km
  • Wilmington Convention Center - 6 min walk - 0.5 km
  • Cape Fear Community College - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Live Oak Bank Pavilion - 10 min walk - 0.9 km
  • Battleship North Carolina - 5 min drive - 4.7 km

Getting around

  • Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.) - 11 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Mellow Mushroom Wilmington - Downtown - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Edward Teach Brewing - ‬11 min walk
  • ‪Cape Fear Wine and Beer - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Marina Grill - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Beer Barrio - ‬13 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Wanderlust at The Cove - Luxury Houseboat - Downtown Wilmington pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Wanderlust at The Cove - Luxury Houseboat - Downtown Wilmington?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Wanderlust at The Cove - Luxury Houseboat - Downtown Wilmington?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Wanderlust at The Cove - Luxury Houseboat - Downtown Wilmington located?

Located in Downtown Wilmington, this houseboat is within a 10-minute walk of Riverwalk, Wilmington Convention Center and Cape Fear Community College. Wilmington Railroad Museum and Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College are also within 10 minutes.

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
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Rating 10 - Excellent. 37 out of 40 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 40 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 40 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 40 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 40 reviews

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Michael G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great getaway spot

Great birthday weekend getaway at a very unique property. We will definitely visit again.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dave D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay!

Beautiful place and great location!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024

8/10 Good

Elizabeth H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique setting

Attractively furnished, comfortable unit that is a docked houseboat. Convenient to downtown Wilmington. Easily accommodates 4 people with two bedrooms and baths. Excellent kitchen amenities, including complimentary delicious coffee. Senior citizens (as we are) might be challenged by the stairs.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sharon T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dreamy Getaway

Slept so well on comfy beds with gentle (almost unnoticeable) rocking. Perfect space with excellent furnishings and appliances. The top deck was excellent for relaxing outside. And the pier ‘park’ at the end was excellent for watching sunsets, playing cornhole, or just enjoying the rocking chairs. Attentive, friendly office staff were a bonus. Definitely staying again!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ted T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful stay! Highly recommend!

Went for a short weekend stay and loved every minute. The unit was immaculate, so clean and well appointed. Furnishings were comfortable and the beds and linens were great! Good location - loved the sunset view! Was an easy check in process. Would recommend and will be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ashley S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The perfect getaway

This house was amazing. My husband & I live in Wilmington & have always wanted to stay. We were very pleased with the cleanliness, decor & cleaning/cooking supplies provided. We will be returning in the future! The view was unbeatable!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024

10/10 Excellent

Valerie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Perfect villa near the amphitheater. Quick walk and loved being on the water!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Christina D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great getaway

A wonderful stay!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Clark T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Vacation getaway

Clean and beautiful!!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cindy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Cove Getaway

The houseboat was fantastic. The communication with our host was wonderful. Perfect getaway for a short or weeklong visit. I would do this again!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Landon F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great experience!

We'll be back!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Bonita C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome

Very nice. From start to finish. Very clean. Great communication from the host
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Johnny P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Floating Away

The Houseboat was better than any hotel room. Beautiful spot close to everything! Very peaceful!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved Wanderlust

Loved everything about the houseboat Wanderlust! Every amenity imaginable. Close to River Walk.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patrick B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location, very cool units. Fun Place

We really enjoyed the houseboats. Excellent location. Very easy to check in and communicate with property manager. Not a criticism but be prepared to walk from parking to the units, but they have carts for your stuff. It's a block or so away to park. No big deal.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Pam D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

lovely visit

Loved trying the HOUSEBOAT experience ~ thank you!
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alex G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Weekend Unwind

It was great and we love the location
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tammy G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

The Cove (Houseboat)

Had a great stay @ The Cove in Wilmington. The location was great with walking to great restaurants and nightlife. Will definitely be back!
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wanderlust houseboat

Unique, beautifully appointed, convenient to all downtown amenities
Stayed 1 night in Jan 2024

10/10 Excellent

Robin B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Slice of Heaven

My husband, myself, and our two daughters stayed here. What you see online is what you get and then some. It is a beautiful tranquil space, with simplistic yet beautiful design. The guests are respectful of one another's space. Wonderful!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ashley R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wagon

Great location for enjoying Wilmington. It is a walk to the houses from parking but a wagon does make it easier. The cove office was nice enough to let us borrow one which saved us. All in all a great place and would rent again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Katrina D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Phenomenal

The Wanderlust was very nice. Very clean. We had everything we needed to cook and then some. I love the location. Seeing the sunset and sitting on the dock in the rocking chair. Everything was great. I will be returning and staying longer.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun

Quick fun getaway.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect getaway location

I have always wanted to stay on a houseboat and it was even better than I imagine! The property is in pristine condition and has all modern conveniences while also floating! The weather was less than perfect during our stay but we enjoyed the amenities within the houseboat and made the most of it. Very walkable to the action on the riverwalk... and you can hear the live concerts at the pavilion next door when you are outside. Inside, it's very quiet. We will be back for sure!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

mike n.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Relaxing get-away

We only stayed one night but we had a great time. The house boat was beautiful and we had everything we needed. Summer was very responsive when I had questions. We will definitely be back.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2024

About the host

Hosted by Erin Robinson

Host profile image

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests