History comes alive with Dr. Chris Fonvielle

Set sail through centuries of history on this immersive cruise led by acclaimed historian Dr. Chris Fonvielle. Each month, Dr. Fonvielle explores a different era of Wilmington and Cape Fear’s fascinating past — from early European exploration to the rise of the port city, to the dramatic battles and blockades of the Civil War. A gifted storyteller and local expert, Dr. Fonvielle brings depth, detail, and personality to every tale, all while cruising the scenic Cape Fear River.

Our October 25, 2026 cruise topic is Cape Fear History Mysteries.
During the spooky season, join Dr. Chris E. Fonvielle Jr., Professor Emeritus in the Dept. of History at UNC Wilmington as he reveals some of the Lower Cape Fear’s strange, supernatural tales. Was Samuel Russell Jocelyn Jr. really buried alive in the graveyard at St. James Church after a horseback riding accident in 1810? Was the inexplicable glowing orb known as the Maco Light seen by thousands of people, including Dr. Fonvielle, for at least 100 years really the ghost of Joe Baldwin, a railroad conductor killed in a terrible train wreck, looking for his decapitated head? Is Thalian Hall really haunted by the spirits of actors and actresses who performed there in the past?

Whether you're a lifelong history buff or just curious about the forces that shaped this region, this is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn while enjoying a relaxing, scenic cruise.