House boat
Inspiration @ The Cove Riverwalk Villas
Riverside houseboat in Wilmington with a water park
Photo gallery for Inspiration @ The Cove Riverwalk Villas





Reviews
10 out of 10
Exceptional
2 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6
Popular amenities
Explore the area

- Place, Riverwalk
- Place, Wilmington Convention Center
- Place, Live Oak Bank Pavilion
- Airport, Wilmington, NC (ILM-Wilmington Intl.)
Rooms & beds
2 bedrooms (sleeps 6)
Bedroom 1
1 Queen Bed
Bedroom 2
1 King Bed
Living Room 1
1 Double Sofa Bed
2 bathrooms
Bathroom 1
Soap · Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Shampoo
Bathroom 2
Spaces
Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Dining area
About this property
Inspiration @ The Cove Riverwalk Villas
Welcome to The Cove Riverwalk Villas, Wilmington’s most unique vacation rental community!
Inspiration, a pet-friendly villa, is meticulously maintained to a level of cleanliness that even non-dog owners would appreciate. Located at the front of the dock with a back patio overlooking the Riverwalk, it`s perfect for outings with your furry friend. The villa is equipped with essentials like food/water bowls, paw towels, poop bags, and a bed cover for your pet.
Inspiration is located at slip #5, just three slips in on the Riverwalk side.
Full kitchen stocked with everything you could need to prepare a great meal. Complimentary local coffee, creamer, and sugar, are provided alongside a drip coffee maker.
First floor bedroom with Queen size bed, large closet, ceiling fan, and 40” Smart TV
Two full bathrooms, one on each floor, with walk-in showers. Complimentary hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash are provided, along with bath and hand towels, wash cloths, and make-up towels.
Second floor bedroom with King sized bed, large closet, dresser, ceiling fan, and 55” Smart TV
First floor open concept living and dining room, featuring dining table with four seats, three bar stools along the kitchen island, cozy couch and arm chairs.
Second floor living room featuring a pull-out sofa, 55” Smart TV, and a beautiful view of the Cape Fear River through the sliding glass doors. A dedicated workspace allows you the work-from-home space of your dreams.
Large patio on second floor featuring an outdoor bar with a mini fridge and sink 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.
Our five dog-friendly villas—Inspiration, Lookout, Haven, Santorini, and Journey—are perfect for guests traveling with their furry friends. Each villa is equipped with water and food bowls, pet waste bags, pet wipes, black towels for wet paws, and protective covers for couches and beds, ensuring both comfort and convenience for you and your pup. We love welcoming dogs and making sure everyone has a memorable stay.
Guests will have access to the entire villa for the duration of their stay.
Our office is located at Slip #1. A team member is typically available on-site daily from 10am-5pm for guest assistance. If there is no one on-site, you can also reach us through the messaging option on your booking site and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
The Cove is located in Port City Marina (PCM), a top-tier, gated, full-service marina offering over 200 cutting-edge floating concrete wet slips. Situated on the picturesque Cape Fear River, PCM is a haven for both transient boaters and our esteemed residents enjoying the luxury of our permanent floating villas.
Our state-of-the-art dock hosts all 40 of our exquisite villas, boasting thoughtfully designed angled slips, picturesque landscaping, and a welcoming community space at the dock`s end.
PCM`s prime location on the along the award-winning Riverwalk grants boaters and villa guests unparalleled access to the vibrant Downtown Wilmington scene. Indulge in the city`s rich cultural offerings, savor delectable dining experiences, and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and entertainment scene, all just steps away from our marina.
Parking is available for one vehicle per villa in an off-site parking garage. The parking garage is located about a 5-7 minute walk from the Marina, so we recommend packing in suitcases with wheels, bringing a foldable cart if you have one. We often get unexpected rain showers on the coast, so we also recommend packing an umbrella or rain jacket.
Welcome to The Cove Riverwalk Villas —your perfect getaway in Downtown Wilmington! We`re just steps from Port City Marina and the Wilmington Convention Center, and one block from The Wilson Center and Live Oak Bank Pavilion, so you can skip the parking stress and event traffic. Who needs a designated driver when you’re this close to the action?
Historic Downtown Wilmington is less than a mile away, with tons of shops, restaurants, breweries, and live music. Get there on foot, hop on the free trolley, or take a quick drive—either way, fun is just around the corner! For the inside scoop on local hotspots and events, check out our Guidebook or visit `Wilmington and Beaches` online.
Need to catch a flight or hit the beach? Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is only 8 minutes away, and Wrightsville Beach, Jungle Rapids, and UNCW are all within a 10-mile radius.
Bringing your boat? Our friends at Port City Marina would love to rent you a slip—just reach out to them directly and let the good times roll!
The unique charm of The Cove comes from its prime position atop the Cape Fear River. Here in Wilmington, you might encounter a local `water bug` or ‘palmetto bug’. While their visits are rare thanks to our rigorous cleanliness standards, these occasional guests are simply part of riverside living. Rest assured, we continuously strive to minimize their appearances and appreciate your understanding.
Parking for The Cove is conveniently located in a nearby garage approximately 0.3 miles from the dock. The garage offers 24/7 in/out access and is equipped with an elevator for easy loading and unloading. Parking for one vehicle per reservation is included, with additional parking available at daily rates set by the garage.
While the garage is close, guests should be aware that there is a 5–7 minute walk to the dock due to our marina setting. Rolling luggage is highly recommended, and bringing a cart or wagon can be helpful. A limited number of wagons are available for guest use at our on-site office on a first-come, first-serve basis.
If this villa’s booked, no worries - send us a message and we can help you find another date or villa that suits your needs. We would love to have you Stay Afloat!
@thecove_wilmington
Be mindful of your surroundings, considerate of your neighbors & respectful of the river.
Walk Only Zone: For safety reasons, the dock is a walk-only zone. Running, jumping, cartwheels, and any other form of reckless behavior or unsafe activity are strictly prohibited.
No Swimming: For safety reasons, swimming in the river is not permitted.
Quiet Hours: Please keep noise to a minimum from 10 PM to 8 AM to maintain a peaceful atmosphere for all guests.
No Open Flames: Open flames, including fireworks, and fire pits, are strictly prohibited on the dock and houseboats. The only exception is our Blackstone grill at the end of the dock.
No Smoking: Smoking is not allowed on the dock or houseboats to ensure safety, comfort and clean air for all guests. Evidence of smoking will incur a $350 fine.
No Ride-On Equipment: Bicycles, skateboards, scooters, and similar ride-on items are not to be ridden on the dock at any time. Mobility aids like wheelchairs and other accessibility devices are welcome.
Child Supervision: Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult at all times while on the dock.
Pets on Leashes: Animals must be kept on a leash and attended to at all times while on the dock.
No Fishing: For the safety of all guests, fishing is not permitted from the dock or houseboats. However, we encourage you to enjoy the beautiful Conlon Pier, located just next door on the Riverwalk, which offers a perfect spot for casting your line!
HVAC: Please follow posted instructions for HVAC use. Do NOT leave windows or doors open while HVAC is running.
Commercial photography/filming & event inquiries can be directed through our website.
Inspiration, a pet-friendly villa, is meticulously maintained to a level of cleanliness that even non-dog owners would appreciate. Located at the front of the dock with a back patio overlooking the Riverwalk, it`s perfect for outings with your furry friend. The villa is equipped with essentials like food/water bowls, paw towels, poop bags, and a bed cover for your pet.
Inspiration is located at slip #5, just three slips in on the Riverwalk side.
Full kitchen stocked with everything you could need to prepare a great meal. Complimentary local coffee, creamer, and sugar, are provided alongside a drip coffee maker.
First floor bedroom with Queen size bed, large closet, ceiling fan, and 40” Smart TV
Two full bathrooms, one on each floor, with walk-in showers. Complimentary hand soap, shampoo, conditioner, and body wash are provided, along with bath and hand towels, wash cloths, and make-up towels.
Second floor bedroom with King sized bed, large closet, dresser, ceiling fan, and 55” Smart TV
First floor open concept living and dining room, featuring dining table with four seats, three bar stools along the kitchen island, cozy couch and arm chairs.
Second floor living room featuring a pull-out sofa, 55” Smart TV, and a beautiful view of the Cape Fear River through the sliding glass doors. A dedicated workspace allows you the work-from-home space of your dreams.
Large patio on second floor featuring an outdoor bar with a mini fridge and sink 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.
Our five dog-friendly villas—Inspiration, Lookout, Haven, Santorini, and Journey—are perfect for guests traveling with their furry friends. Each villa is equipped with water and food bowls, pet waste bags, pet wipes, black towels for wet paws, and protective covers for couches and beds, ensuring both comfort and convenience for you and your pup. We love welcoming dogs and making sure everyone has a memorable stay.
Guests will have access to the entire villa for the duration of their stay.
Our office is located at Slip #1. A team member is typically available on-site daily from 10am-5pm for guest assistance. If there is no one on-site, you can also reach us through the messaging option on your booking site and someone will get back to you as quickly as possible.
The Cove is located in Port City Marina (PCM), a top-tier, gated, full-service marina offering over 200 cutting-edge floating concrete wet slips. Situated on the picturesque Cape Fear River, PCM is a haven for both transient boaters and our esteemed residents enjoying the luxury of our permanent floating villas.
Our state-of-the-art dock hosts all 40 of our exquisite villas, boasting thoughtfully designed angled slips, picturesque landscaping, and a welcoming community space at the dock`s end.
PCM`s prime location on the along the award-winning Riverwalk grants boaters and villa guests unparalleled access to the vibrant Downtown Wilmington scene. Indulge in the city`s rich cultural offerings, savor delectable dining experiences, and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and entertainment scene, all just steps away from our marina.
Parking is available for one vehicle per villa in an off-site parking garage. The parking garage is located about a 5-7 minute walk from the Marina, so we recommend packing in suitcases with wheels, bringing a foldable cart if you have one. We often get unexpected rain showers on the coast, so we also recommend packing an umbrella or rain jacket.
Welcome to The Cove Riverwalk Villas —your perfect getaway in Downtown Wilmington! We`re just steps from Port City Marina and the Wilmington Convention Center, and one block from The Wilson Center and Live Oak Bank Pavilion, so you can skip the parking stress and event traffic. Who needs a designated driver when you’re this close to the action?
Historic Downtown Wilmington is less than a mile away, with tons of shops, restaurants, breweries, and live music. Get there on foot, hop on the free trolley, or take a quick drive—either way, fun is just around the corner! For the inside scoop on local hotspots and events, check out our Guidebook or visit `Wilmington and Beaches` online.
Need to catch a flight or hit the beach? Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is only 8 minutes away, and Wrightsville Beach, Jungle Rapids, and UNCW are all within a 10-mile radius.
Bringing your boat? Our friends at Port City Marina would love to rent you a slip—just reach out to them directly and let the good times roll!
The unique charm of The Cove comes from its prime position atop the Cape Fear River. Here in Wilmington, you might encounter a local `water bug` or ‘palmetto bug’. While their visits are rare thanks to our rigorous cleanliness standards, these occasional guests are simply part of riverside living. Rest assured, we continuously strive to minimize their appearances and appreciate your understanding.
Parking for The Cove is conveniently located in a nearby garage approximately 0.3 miles from the dock. The garage offers 24/7 in/out access and is equipped with an elevator for easy loading and unloading. Parking for one vehicle per reservation is included, with additional parking available at daily rates set by the garage.
While the garage is close, guests should be aware that there is a 5–7 minute walk to the dock due to our marina setting. Rolling luggage is highly recommended, and bringing a cart or wagon can be helpful. A limited number of wagons are available for guest use at our on-site office on a first-come, first-serve basis.
If this villa’s booked, no worries - send us a message and we can help you find another date or villa that suits your needs. We would love to have you Stay Afloat!
@thecove_wilmington
Be mindful of your surroundings, considerate of your neighbors & respectful of the river.
Walk Only Zone: For safety reasons, the dock is a walk-only zone. Running, jumping, cartwheels, and any other form of reckless behavior or unsafe activity are strictly prohibited.
No Swimming: For safety reasons, swimming in the river is not permitted.
Quiet Hours: Please keep noise to a minimum from 10 PM to 8 AM to maintain a peaceful atmosphere for all guests.
No Open Flames: Open flames, including fireworks, and fire pits, are strictly prohibited on the dock and houseboats. The only exception is our Blackstone grill at the end of the dock.
No Smoking: Smoking is not allowed on the dock or houseboats to ensure safety, comfort and clean air for all guests. Evidence of smoking will incur a $350 fine.
No Ride-On Equipment: Bicycles, skateboards, scooters, and similar ride-on items are not to be ridden on the dock at any time. Mobility aids like wheelchairs and other accessibility devices are welcome.
Child Supervision: Children under 12 must be supervised by an adult at all times while on the dock.
Pets on Leashes: Animals must be kept on a leash and attended to at all times while on the dock.
No Fishing: For the safety of all guests, fishing is not permitted from the dock or houseboats. However, we encourage you to enjoy the beautiful Conlon Pier, located just next door on the Riverwalk, which offers a perfect spot for casting your line!
HVAC: Please follow posted instructions for HVAC use. Do NOT leave windows or doors open while HVAC is running.
Commercial photography/filming & event inquiries can be directed through our website.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
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10.0 out of 10, (38 reviews)
House Rules
Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before 10:00 AM
Children
Adults only
Events
No events allowed
Pets
Pets allowed: dogs (limit 2 total)
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
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
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 that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
About the area
Wilmington
Located on the waterfront, this houseboat is in Downtown Wilmington, a neighbourhood in Wilmington. Children's Museum of Wilmington and Port of Wilmington are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those looking for area attractions can visit Wilmington Railroad Museum and Carolina Heights. Looking to enjoy an event or a game while in town? See what's happening at Wilson Center at Cape Fear Community College or Legion Stadium. Looking to get your feet wet? Kayaking, power boating and sailing adventures can be found near the property.

Wilmington, North Carolina
What's nearby
- Riverwalk - 1 min walk - 0.0 km
- Wilmington Convention Center - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
- Cape Fear Community College - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
- Live Oak Bank Pavilion - 9 min walk - 0.8 km
- Battleship North Carolina - 6 min drive - 4.9 km
Getting around
Restaurants
- Bonita Latin Fusion - 3 min walk
- Tequila Comida & Cantina - 6 min walk
- Eagle's Dare - 13 min walk
- Marina Grill - 5 min walk
- The German Cafe - 8 min walk
Frequently asked questions
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window10/10
Cleanliness
9.8/10
Check-in
10/10
Communication
9.8/10
Location
10/10
Listing accuracy
Reviews
6 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
10/10 Excellent
Samantha P.
6 December 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Lovely place to just hang out
Samantha P.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
10/10 Excellent
James M.
26 December 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Fantastic!
James M.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Teresa B.
26 September 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely Beautiful
Teresa B.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Lisa W.
6 July 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful stay!
Lisa W.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
don s.
20 September 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
don s.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
10/10 Excellent
Ellen M.
23 February 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great access to downtown. Comfortable, staff is fabulous and the Villa was well equipped
Ellen M.
Stayed 14 nights in Feb 2025
10/10 Excellent
David E.
16 December 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Boat reception
David E.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2024
10/10 Excellent
Kristi F.
14 November 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, communication, location, listing accuracy
Relaxing alternative
Kristi F.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2024
8/10 Good
Emalie L.
10 November 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great place to stay
Emalie L.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024
10/10 Excellent
Gary G.
29 October 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very Unique Experience
Gary G.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2024
10/10 Excellent
jane e.
3 October 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Very relaxing!
jane e.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
10/10 Excellent
Heather N.
15 August 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Restful stay on houseboat
Heather N.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
8/10 Good
Scott H.
11 July 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy
Neat experience.
Scott H.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
Linda H.
7 July 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Love love love the Villa
Linda H.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
10/10 Excellent
crystal t.
24 June 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great Place
crystal t.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
10/10 Excellent
Lori S., Commack, NY
20 March 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Happiness on the water
Lori S.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Donna P.
10 March 2024
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
So cool
Donna P.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2024
10/10 Excellent
Holly S.
2 December 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful accommodations and location!
Holly S.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2023
10/10 Excellent
Tammy T.
6 October 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Perfect!
Tammy T.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023
10/10 Excellent
Chris F.
17 September 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Excellent spot
Chris F.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Lindsay W.
28 June 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Nice place!
Lindsay W.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Kat Y.
9 June 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a Blast!
Kat Y.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Patricia F.
5 May 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Enjoyable
Patricia F.
Stayed 1 night in May 2023
10/10 Excellent
Scott C.
2 May 2023
Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Heavenly Stay
Scott C.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
About the host
Hosted by Erin Robinson
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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