Located in Downtown Wilmington, this houseboat is adjacent to Riverwalk and within a 5-minute walk of Live Oak Bank Pavilion. Guestrooms at this houseboat include kitchens, balconies, and refrigerators.
Wilmington Convention Center - 6 min walk - 0.3 miles
Cape Fear Community College - 7 min walk - 0.4 miles
Battleship North Carolina - 5 min drive - 2.9 miles
Getting around
Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM) - 6 min drive
Restaurants
The Half - 16 min walk
Mellow Mushroom Wilmington - Downtown - 14 min walk
Edward Teach Brewing - 12 min walk
Cape Fear Wine and Beer - 15 min walk
Marina Grill - 1 min walk
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire house boat to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Sanctuary at The Cove - Downtown - Nextdoor to Wilm Convention Center
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/FB/TT)
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!
Guests can enjoy a Smart TV and stay connected with free WiFi. Other standard amenities include a kitchen, a washing machine, and 2 bathrooms.
Property manager
Erin Robinson
Similar properties
Unique deluxe houseboat at Port City Marina named the “Sea Ranch”
Unique deluxe houseboat at Port City Marina named the “Sea Ranch”
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Unit size: 1,200 square feet
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 21
Check-out
Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
This property doesn't allow pets
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
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Long-term renters welcome
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 21
We should mention
Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.
Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:
Long-term renters welcome.
Frequently asked questions
What's there to see around this houseboat?
This houseboat is situated in Downtown Wilmington, just steps from Riverwalk, and within a 10-minute walk of Live Oak Bank Pavilion and Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College. You'll also find Cape Fear River and Brooklyn Arts Center at St. Andrews less than a mile away.
Will I be able to park at this houseboat?
No, this houseboat doesn't offer parking.
Is this houseboat adjacent to a casino?
No, this houseboat is not connected to a casino.
Will I find an indoor pool at this houseboat?
No, there is no indoor pool at this houseboat.
What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Sanctuary at The Cove - Downtown - Nextdoor to Wilm Convention Center?
At this riverfront houseboat, amenities that appeal to couples include a kitchen and a smart TV in each accommodation with some featuring kitchens.
Does Sanctuary at The Cove - Downtown - Nextdoor to Wilm Convention Center have a hot tub?
No, there isn't a spa tub at this houseboat.
Does this houseboat include breakfast service?
No, this houseboat doesn't offer breakfast.
Does this houseboat allow pets to stay free of charge?
No, pets aren't allowed at this houseboat.
Does this houseboat have connecting rooms?
No, there aren't connecting rooms at this houseboat.
Where is the closest airport to this houseboat?
The closest major airport to this houseboat is Wilmington Intl. Airport (ILM), which is 3.5 mi away (6 minutes by car).
Are there rooms with balconies at Sanctuary at The Cove - Downtown - Nextdoor to Wilm Convention Center?
Yes, every accommodation at Sanctuary at The Cove - Downtown - Nextdoor to Wilm Convention Center comes with a balcony with some featuring water views.
Sanctuary at The Cove - Downtown - Nextdoor to Wilm Convention Center Reviews
Reviews
10
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Rating 10 - Excellent. 9 out of 9 reviews
10 - Excellent
9
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 9 reviews
8 - Good
0
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 9 reviews
6 - Okay
0
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 9 reviews
4 - Poor
0
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 9 reviews
2 - Terrible
0
9.8/10
Cleanliness
Reviews
10/10 Excellent
queenie w.
May 1, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Great stay
Very nice villa with lots of room and well stocked with everything we needed. Great location and fantastic views. Very clean and spotless. Will definitely book again
queenie w.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Carolyn K.
Apr 21, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect and so unique!
I can’t say enough about how fabulous of a time we had this past weekend. So much space, such an amazing view, and so so unique. Place was impeccable. Communication with the office was amazing. Hope our plans in the future can include another visit to the Cove!
Carolyn K.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
Donald P.
Feb 23, 2025
Liked: Cleanliness
Running friends
Impressive place to get real taste of Wilmington
Donald P.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
Nancy C.
Dec 26, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Christmas riverwalk . Wilson concert trip
The location was excellent for what we wanted to do. Houseboat was spacious, clean , decorated for the holidays Our 3 day stay was great.
Nancy C.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Karen D.
Nov 7, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Awesome stay!
Lovely property on the water. Incredible views. Responsible host. Beautiful decor. Clean as a whistle. What more could you ask for?
Karen D.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kellie P.
Sep 8, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect setting!
Come relax on the upper deck and enjoy a great villa on the water. Close to everything but quite when you get home!
Kellie P.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Angie K.
Jun 14, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
AMAZING in every way
This listing is exactly as advertised and the quality of the houseboat construction is stellar. The location is fabulous and all interactions with the house were first class. I truly can’t wait to go back.
Angie K.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Abby P.
May 20, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect Weekend Get Away!
We enjoyed our stay at The Cove Sanctuary 8. The house was very clean and beautifully decorated. House was very well stocked with all the essentials. 10-15 minute walk to downtown nightlife and several great restaurants. Marina has a couple new restaurants that are less than a 5 minute walk from The Cove. The marina is very quiet and peaceful during the day and evenings. Wilmington is a charming little town with lots to offer. This is the perfect romantic weekend getaway, family weekend or girls trip. Highly Recommend!
Abby P.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
10/10 Excellent
Tonio J., Wilmington
Mar 21, 2024
Liked: Cleanliness
Quick weekend staycation
We rented it for a weekend staycation and loved the mini neighborhood of houseboats.