Our story
We love to share our love for the coast
Experienced Boaters who want to share our coastal treasures. Our goal is to give you the most unforgettable day on the water you've ever had. Experience the Carolina Coast in a safe, comfortable relaxing environment make great memories and most importantly just have fun
The captain's story
Captain Joe Ward
Joe has captained up and down the Eastern Seaboard having lived in NC, FL, and VA learning to read tides and weather before he could drive a car. Joe is our lead captain working out of Morningstar Marina where Coastal Classic Adventures is based today — so when Joe says he knows these waters, he means it in the deepest sense.
After 15 years as a licensed USCG captain running offshore charters up and down the Atlantis seaboard Joe joined Coastal Classic Adventures in 2026 piloting the Wanderer, a Beneteau Swift 44 , a super comfortable 46-foot trawler and a simple promise: Every guest leaves with a story worth telling. Seas the day and enjoy a great day with a newly trusted friend.
Meet the crew
The People Behind Every Great Trip
Our crew brings decades of combined experience, genuine Southern hospitality, and a passion for making every charter exceptional.
Captain Joe Ward
Founder & Head Captain
20+ years on Atlantic waters. Joe's enthusiasm and kindred spirit make him a First class captain His methodical Naval experience, knowledge of local fishing spots, weather patterns, and hidden anchorages is what makes a day aboard our flagship vessel the Wanderer such an enjoyable and relaxing experience and really sets Coastal Classic apart as the nicest chartering option in our region.
Owner
First Mate & Lifelong Boater
Founder and CEO, it was Tom's passion to shift gears and make coastal boating a cap to a storied career in the commercial glass business. You have certainly seen one of his glass projects if you are anywhere in NC. Tom brings his love for all things boating, his competitive racing experience sailing 35ft sailboats in college , Lightning class sailboats and then competitive Hobie Cat (catamaran) racing. His competitive nature, thrill for adventure and entreprenuerial curiosity is s what has created this company.
Keith Kluttz
Keith originally from Burlington, NC has spent all his life in the Carolinas and moved to Southport Full time several years ago as an IT manager. Keith has 25 years of boating expertise and runs many of the daily operations. He is often the one who will cheerfully greet you aboard and assist with the logistics. Keith is a calm, steady hand in any sea condition and recently helped pilot the Wanderer from Tavernier Florida Keys to the Carolinas . He helps keep us on task and between the buoys. A True Gentleman.
Our vessels
The Fleet
Every vessel is Coast Guard inspected, fully insured, and equipped with the latest safety and navigation technology.
The Wanderer
46 ft Trawler MotoryachtUp to 12 guests
Beneteau Swift 44, Twin 300hp Volvo Penta Diesels, Flybridge which seats up to 10, Full upper and lower electronics, Spacious salon and Kitchen , 2 bathrooms with shower on rear deck , 4 zone air conditioning , aft cockpit with zippered enclosure ,large swim platform , fish finder, radar, GPS, VHF radio, full covered aft deck. Multiple Navionics software and communication equipment including Starlink satellite connection
Rose All Day
25-ft Pontoon CruiserUp to 12 guests
Smooth-ride hull, full wet bar, Bluetooth Fusion/Kicker sound system, sun loungers and easy loading from extended front deck, rear entry swim ladder, extended bimini canopy, ottoman cooler, onboard restroom in pop up changing — perfect for sunset cruises and ICW excursions
Your safety
Safety Is Never Optional
We hold ourselves to the highest standards so you can relax and enjoy every moment on the water.
Coast Guard Inspected
All vessels pass annual USCG safety inspections. Certificates are posted on board and available on request.
Life Jackets for All
USCG-approved life jackets in all sizes — including children's — are stocked on every vessel and briefed before departure.
Weather Monitoring
We monitor NOAA forecasts 48 hours in advance. If conditions are unsafe, we reschedule at no charge — no questions asked.
First Aid Onboard
Full first aid kits, AED device on Wanderer, and at least one CPR-certified crew member on every charter.
VHF & Emergency Comms
All offshore vessels carry VHF marine radios, EPIRB emergency beacons, and flare kits. We maintain constant contact with the marina.
Liability Insurance
Fully insured for passenger liability. Documentation available upon request for corporate and event bookings.
Ready to Cast Off?
Whether it's your first time on the water or your hundredth, we'll make it one for the books.
Book Your Charter