Cruise Captains: Sharon & Rob McDonald
(MV Mischief)
For updates Subscribe to the Forum: 2026 Labor Day Cruise
Labor Day in Belhaven!
Come celebrate Labor Day weekend in one of our favorite cruising destinations - Belhaven, the charming "Beautiful Harbor" on the Pungo River. Just 40 nautical miles from Oriental, this cruise offers a comfortable day on the water followed by a relaxing weekend filled with great company, delicious food, and plenty to explore.
Belhaven is known for its laid-back waterfront atmosphere, friendly locals, and walkable downtown. Browse unique boutiques and antique shops, visit local galleries, stroll the scenic waterfront, or simply relax and enjoy the small-town coastal charm. Whether you prefer exploring on your own or joining fellow members for planned activities, there's something for everyone.
Dockage
Our base will be Belhaven Marina, a well-protected, modern municipal marina is located just steps from downtown at the bottom of Pamlico Street. The deep-water marina features wide docks with dependable power and water service, clean bathhouses and laundry facilities, a courtesy golf cart, and a spacious waterfront park with gazebo areas that will become the setting for our Labor Day Cookout Social.
Link: https://www.belhavenmarina.com
The marina has room for 17 boats. If you plan to stay there, make your reservations early.
Excellent alternates are:
- The City dock next door has room for four or five boats.
- River Forrest Marina just down the street has complimentary golf carts.
- The anchorage directly in front Belhaven Marina has excellent holding.
Weekend Activities
Tour ICW Brewery & 136 Distillery
Visit ICW Brewery and 136 Distillery two of Belhaven's newest gathering places. Sample locally crafted beverages, learn about the brewing and distilling process, and stick around for live music in the evening.
Labor Day Cookout on the Marina Green
Sunday afternoon at 4pm we'll gather on the marina green for an NSA cookout. The club will provide hamburgers, hot dogs, and fixings. To round out the meal, we're asking everyone attending to bring a favorite cookout side dish, salad, or dessert to share. Don't forget to bring your choice of beverage and your own plates and utensils!
Explore at Your Own Pace
As with all NSA cruises, there will be plenty of opportunities to make the weekend your own. Explore the town, enjoy a leisurely meal with fellow members, browse the local shops, or simply catch up with others on the green watching the boats come and go. Some of the best cruise memories are made during these unplanned moments spent with friends, both old and new.
Whether you're a longtime NSA cruiser or joining us for your first overnight adventure, the Belhaven Labor Day Cruise promises beautiful cruising waters, a welcoming marina, and the camaraderie that makes Neuse Sailing Association cruises so special. We hope you'll join us!
Cruise Dates
The cruise officially starts on Saturday 9/5 and closes on Monday 9/7.
Some folks may choose to make the most of the long weekend by leaving a day or so early or by staying longer.
Communication
WhatsApp and Channel 68
We'll create a WhatsApp group for the cruise to help us stay connected. If you're not familiar with WhatsApp, it's a very safe, secure, messaging app that is easy to use and works really well for groups like ours. Install it on your phone and sign up in seconds.
On the water, the NSA fleet can be reached on VHF channel 68.
Don’t Forget
- Reserve your dockage early!
- Bring your favorite side dish to share.
- Bring your choice of beverage and your own plates and utensils
Fair winds, and we'll see you in Belhaven!
- BYODC – Bring Your Own Dishes, Cups, flatware, napkins, & Trash bag to events to cut back on trash and be environmentally friendly.
- Make sure to fly your BURGEE during the Event!
