A shallow draft boat might find shelter and the most basic of supplies in one of these harbors. These are working villages with few amenities for the cruiser. Beaufort to the south, on the other hand, offers every service a cruiser might need. Further north, Ocracoke is a lovely little harbor and most supplies and services are also available there. If you decide to camp-cruise, camping is permitted almost everywhere in Cape Lookout National Seashore.
Spring offers the best cruising weather, moderate temperatures, good wind, and only occasional rain.
Late fall is also a fine time to cruise the sounds. Summer, however, can be hot, humid, and oppressive. And if you escape the mosquitoes, the chiggers or gnats will find you. Only the very foolish sail here without industrial strength insect repellant and mosquito netting on their hatches or tents. Since sea kayaks must be narrow, light, and extremely efficient, a tiny rag of sail will propel them at astonishing speeds.