I lived in Elizabeth City long enough to learn some of the history of the Great Dismal Swamp and the canal. For fans of the canal, look up the history and the stories/legends, and you'll love the experience even more!
The same applies to Bath and Washington NC, and then there's Edenton, Ocracoke and so many other beautiful and historic treasures of eastern NC and our wonderful Pamlico and Albemarle Sounds. No wonder Blackbeard tried to retire here! Combine your love for adventure, unspoiled cruising venues, and history. Visit the site of the Lost Colony, find Teach's Hole (where captain Ned Teach would lie in wait for "economic opportunities" just inside Ocracoke Inlet), buy fresh seafood right off the commercial boats in many locations, and visit some truly outstanding restaurants (Spoon River and the Tavern at Jack's Neck in Belhaven, numerous in New Bern, Tony's Sanitary Seafood since 1937 in Morehead, and many more). Marinas are well distributed and slip prices are far more reasonable than on the Chesapeake. NC truly is small trawler and sailboat cruising heaven! Come visit!