Judge issues stay order, saving Wilmington Water Tours from closure or relocation

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Dozens of people filed into the New Hanover County Courthouse on Wednesday in support of Wilmington Water Tours. 

The river cruise company faced a lawsuit in superior court that could have forced it to close. 

The suit—which doesn’t name Wilmington Water Tours directly—was brought about by a board member with the Riverwalk Condo Association. 

The HOA board member spent two years and $50,000 of HOA funds to file an injunction that would force the business to relocate, or shut down. 

But on Wednesday, a judge issued a stay order, securing the foreseeable future of the local business. 

Many who showed up in court to support Wilmington Water Tours said the company is a valuable asset to the community. 

“The tours they offer are more than just fun on a boat. They’re educational, they talk about ecology of the river, preservation, the history of Wilmington; I have learned so much on their tours,” one Wilmington resident said. 

“It’s a really unique and essential part of downtown Wilmington, and if we were to loose that it would really be a shame,” another Wilmington resident added. 

“Boats have been on this river forever and they need to stay that way,” one resident noted. 

Doug Springer is the co-owner of Wilmington Water Tours. 

He said he’s happy with the court’s decision, and that he’s pleased they can continue offering their tours.