About Our Dolphin Cruises
Hilton Head Island is nestled into the heart of the salt marshes of the South Carolina Low country. This area spans 350 square miles on the East Coast and is home to numerous Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin. Dolphin are present year round due to our rich natural habitat loaded with plenty of fish, crab, shrimp, and oysters.
Join us for an exciting 90 minute excursion departing from the dock directly behind Hilton Head Islands landmark restaurant, The Skull Creek Boathouse, board our 27 15 passenger Carolina Skiff as we explore the inlets, creeks and marshes around Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge in search of Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins.
While the resident dolphins are not fed or trained, with the right know-how, they can usually be found within minutes of departure in our calm estuary waters. Your highly experienced Master Captain will discuss our ecosystems and wildlife, local history, and dolphin fun facts while always operating the vessel in a manner that is safe and respectful of the dolphins and their need for space.
You will be able to watch these intelligent creatures play, feed, mate and sleep from a close, but safe, distance. As you cruise through this saltwater wilderness, you may also see dolphins exhibit a unique hunting technique known as strand feeding. This feeding technique is amazing but rare to see as it has only been observed in this region of the world.
Your Eco Tour Captain Rick Williams
Rick grew up in a boating family and began sailing, fishing, boating, and waterskiing at a young age. Throughout his life he always gravitated towards the water wherever he lived. He has always had a passion for wildlife and has been fortunate enough to have some unique experiences. One included being an assistant to a group of scientists darting and tagging Black Howler Monkeys on an island in Panama. Now Having lived on Hilton Head Island for over 25 years he loves combining his passion for boating and wildlife with TailHunter charters. I love teaching people about our local wildlife and our unique ecosystem. Its important for people to understand how fragile it so theyll want to help preserve it.
Larger Boat Dolphin Tours
Daytime Dolphin Tour, with Sonny C Charters1hr30. Available daily. Adults $20, children $10, young children free.Dolphin-watching and sightseeing boat tour of Broad Creek and Calibogue Sound. More details
Dolphin and Nature Cruise, with the Coastal Discovery Museum1hr30. Seasonal tour, Wednesday and Friday 3pm. Adults $24, children $14.Boat tour of Broad Creeks dolphins and wildlife with a docent from the Coastal Discovery Museum. More details
Daytime Dolphin Watch Cruise, with Captain Marks Dolphin Cruise1hr45. Seasonal tour, Monday-Saturday. Adults $21, children $11, young children free.Dolphin-watching boat tour out of Shelter Cove Harbor. More details
Ocean Dolphin Cruise, with Vagabond Cruise1hr30. Year-round, daily during peak season. Adults $33, children $11, young children free.Sightseeing and dolphin-watching tour of Calibogue Sound and the ocean near Hilton Head, aboard a large passenger boat. More details
Dolphin Tour, with Dolphin Seafari1hr30-2hrs. Sunday-Friday, several departures most days. 20 people max. Adults $35, children $20, young children $10.Dolphin-watching and nature tour from Shelter Cove Marina, on a 30-foot covered pontoon boat. More details
Donuts With Dolphins, with Dolphin Seafari1hr30-2hrs. 20 people max. Tuesday and Thursday, 9am. Adults $38, children $25, young children $10.Morning dolphin tour from Shelter Cove Marina, with coffee or juice and donuts. More details
More Things To Do In Hilton Head, SC
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Hilton Head Boat Tours Near Daufuskie Island Sc
Hilton Head Dolphin Tours provides Boat Tours near Daufuskie Island, South Carolina. Suitable for all ages, we have various exciting boat tours that cruise by iconic landmarks from Dolphin Tours to Booze Cruises. Perfect for sightseeing, parties and vacations, this is your chance to make unforgettable memories in Hilton Head Island!
- Safe and suitable for all ages
- Passionate guidance from our captains
- See stunning scenery and wildlife
- Pass Hilton Head Islands iconic landmarks
Island Skiff Dolphin Tour Highlights
Located at Broad Creek Marina on Hilton Head Island with two ways to experience a guided dolphin tour. Our convenient mid-island location offers free parking and has no gate fees. You will travel more than 25 miles of nature-rich waters where you will see dolphin pods living and feeding in their natural habitat. Each tour is over 2 hours long, allowing you to skiff or mini boat through the calm creeks while feeling the thrill of captaining your own boat.
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Breathtaking Views Of Daufuskie Island On Our Hilton Head Sunset Cruises
Enjoy the best sunset locations in Hilton Head Island with our Hilton Head Sunset Cruises. These stunning boat tours are perfect for romantic dates or quality time with family and friends.
Gliding along the Low Country Waters and possibly passing by Daufuskie Island, youll see stunning colors as the sunlight reflects off the water and fades over the horizon including shimmering oranges, gorgeous reds and dreamy pinks.
On a private boat tour of up to 6 people, you can sit back and relax with the chaos of the day giving way to natures serenity. Lasting 2 hours, youll see more than just the wonderful sunset too, with a range of wildlife on show from dolphins to seabirds. So, why not crack open a bottle, sit back and take in the view?
Aboutmermaid Of Hilton Head Boat Tours
Join us on one of our Hilton Head boat tours. We have the Dolphin Experience Tour, which is one of the best Hilton Head dolphin tours you can find. We also have our Sunset Cruise on Hilton Head to watch dolphins, other wildlife and the sun set over the marsh of the Lowcountry. Our most popular tour is our Mermaid Encounter Boat Tour, which was named the Best Marine Wildlife Experience in South Carolina by LUX Life.
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Boat Tours In Hilton Head South Carolina
If youre interested in enjoying an exciting private boat tour around Daufuskie Island in Hilton Head, SC, contact us today! Advance booking is strongly recommended due to high demand.
Our boats are suitable for all ages in groups of up to 6 people, but please feel free to contact us if you have a bigger group as we can run more than one boat if required.
Dolphin Seafari Of Hilton Head Island
Available March 1st through January 5th
This 30 ft handicap accessible covered pontoon boat holds up to 20 guests. This boat sits low on the water for excellent views of the water wildlife. There is also comfortable bench seating. Coolers are welcome on every trip and reservations are required.The Seafari is perfect for private parties on the water! Host your birthday party, anniversary party or bachelorette and bachelor parties, graduations parties and more with the Seafari of Hilton Head Island.
Private parties starting from $650 includes 90 minute cruise .
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Hilton Head Fireworks Cruises Near Daufuskie Island
Experience Hilton Head Islands firework nights away from the crowds on our private Hilton Head Fireworks cruises. Suitable for all ages in groups of up to 6 people, well take you to the perfect viewing spots not far from Daufuskie Island.
Undoubtedly the best seat in the house, our Hilton Head fireworks cruises allow you to beat the crowds and traffic as we arrive early to soak up the atmosphere before a night of celebration.
On route, well also see a variety of wildlife, including dolphins and seabirds. This is also a fantastic chance to see Hilton Head islands glittering night lights, from marinas to gated communities. So, sit back and relax!
Join us every Tuesday night throughout the summer for HarbourFest as we enjoy Hilton Head fireworks in style! We also run special trips for 4th of July firework cruise celebrations.
Rated Excellent By 150+ Reviewers On Tripadvisor
This is a very good value as the cruise lasted about 2 hours…Captain Mark was very informative and told me lots of things that I did not know about the area and dolphins. The weather and the scenery were great. This was the second time I have taken this trip and I would absolutely do it again.
Captain Mark and Thomas were friendly, the boat was clean, and we learned things that we hadn’t known before–thanks to Captain Mark’s excellent and informative narration of all things HHI. We will do this boat trip again, next time with our kids.
We took a sunset cruise and it could not be more happy with the experience! It was absolutely gorgeous and we saw tons of dolphins. Captain Mark is very knowledgeable. It was truly a pleasant evening!
It was just wonderful…Captain Mark was most informative about the history of the island, and the development of Hilton Head as a community. And yes, we did see several pods of dolphin, and Captain Mark gave us plenty of information.
Recently took my fifth cruise with Capt Marks Dolphin Watch….I enjoy this informative and delightful cruise so much!The trip is narrated with so many facts about HHI, I am constantly amazed. The ship is very big, not fast, not scary, no motion sickness. Just a really enjoyable trip.
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Our Most Popular Tours
Island Explorer Dolphin & Nature Tours offers the very best dolphin tours, eco-tours, sunset dolphin cruises, wild dolphin encounters, and dolphin discovery tours. Your family, kids, and groups will create lifetime memories by joining our HIlton Head Island wildlife and nature tours to experience dolphin encounters, beautiful island harbors and scenery, birds in their natural habitat, and relaxing boat cruises on the waters of the Lowcountry. We have been voted “number one dolphin tour” and “best on the island” many times and continue to offer the most affordable prices for the island’s very best tours.
Captain Jim Harkins | Island Explorer | 101 Marshland Road | Hilton Head Island, SC 29926© 2022 Island Explorer
Experience The Unique Disappearing Island Tours
Daufuskie Island is a short boat trip away from the truly unique Disappearing Island. Theres no other way to reach this island than by boat because it only appears for 1.5 hours when the tide subsides.
Once we arrive at the sand bar, youll get the chance to jump out the boat and walk through the shallow waters and onto this famous beach. Here you can beachcomb and find Sand Dollars, starfish and other sea life found nowhere else in Hilton Head! Book your Disappearing Island Boat Tour Today!
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Providing A Glimpse Into The Past While Preserving The Lowcountrys Future
Vagabond Cruise has been operating in the world-famous Harbour Town since 1968, providing Hilton Head Island vacationers with a wide range of water bound tours and excursions ranging from a romantic dinner cruise, a day trip to Savannah, a fully narrated dolphin nature cruise, a once-in-a-lifetime ride aboard a 12-meter racing yacht, and a trip back in time to visit the Lowcountry of Daufuskie Island.
Whether you are looking for a fun family activity, a relaxing day on the water, a thrilling adventure, or a romantic getaway, Vagabond Cruise has the Hilton Head Island cruise for you!
We went on “Spirit Of Harbourtown” for a day in Savannah.. The captain and crew did an amazing job and were having a great time along with everyone else. I would definitely recommend this cruise as it’s a fun way to visit Savannah while you’re in Hilton Head..
Went on a dolphin watch and it was a really nice experience for us and our almost 4 year old. The staff was very professional, friendly, attentive and knowledgeable. Was such a nice scenic relaxing ride in between the excitement of seeing the dolphins.
Had an awesome evening with Vaptain Justin and all of the crew. Saw a pod of dolphins and an amazing sunset and a great storm brewing. Lovely bunch of men who took great care of us. Will do this again when we comeback. Thank you Vagabond
About Our Sunset Cruises
Join us for a delightful 2 hour excursion departing from the docks behind Hilton Head Islands legendary eatery The Skull Creek Boathouse Restaurant. Indulge yourself in the soothing and relaxing Hilton Head Island Sunset from the unique vantage point of the water. Watch the sun set fire to the sky as the water glides past while cruising the quiet estuaries surrounding The Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge.
Bring a perfect end to your day by watching the suns magnificent reflection on the water as it slowly sinks beyond the horizon. Along with the beauty of a South Carolina sunset, you will have an experience of which memories are made. Sunset Trips fill quickly so please make your reservation early!
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Find Tranquility With A Sailing Charter
With some of the largest sailing charters available on Hilton Head Island, Shelter Cove Marina provides the best opportunity to set sail on the picturesque waterways of the south. Theres nothing more relaxing than a sailboat cruise. Relax during one of our morning, afternoon or evening sunset sails.
Y Around Daufuskie Island On Our Hilton Head Booze Cruises
This is the ultimate party boat experience! Our Hilton Head Booze Cruises give you the freedom to plan your own custom booze cruise route around Daufuskie Island and Hilton Head Island. Pick your stop-off points at bars, restaurants and landmarks as we give a party unlike any other! If youve got a bigger group, we can take multiple boats.
With 3/4/5 hour Booze cruises available, youll have plenty of time to enjoy stunning wildlife and scenery from dolphins and seabirds to sandy beaches and as many bars as you want! We also have an onboard Bluetooth surround sound speaker.
Whether you want to drink till you drop or enjoy a more relaxed and casual day out, well make it happen. We commonly help provide private party boat tours around Daufuskie Island for birthday parties, bachelor and bachelorette parties, spring break parties, Sunday funday parties, weekend parties, Hilton Head vacations, wine cruises, firework cruises and more!
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Over 250 Customers Love Us On Tripadvisor
We were warmly greeted by Deborah Short and Captain Tim and saw lots of dolphins, birds, and beautiful sites. Deborah’s extensive knowledge of dolphins, vegetation, and HHI, kept our attention the entire 90 minutes. She even treated us to a lesson in crabbing and how to spot the difference in stone crabs, blue crabs, male, and female.
We had a wonderful trip with a very knowledgeable guide. We learned about the Inter-coastal Waterway, marine life and local influence. Our first experience with Dolphin Seafari was extremely positive, and we would recommend for adults as well as families with children.
Our sunset cruise on the small pontoon boat was fabulous! Deborah, the on-board naturalist, educated us on the ecosystem of the marshland and was very hands-on with the smaller children on the boat. This was SO much better than dolphin-watching on a larger ship! Our group of 16 people had a great time and it was definitely a highlight of our vacation!
Deborah and Captain Vern were friendly and very personable. Deborah kept engaged with the guests and children through the whole trip. We were only able to see a few dolphins, but the crab trap was very hands on and fun for the kids.
Find Crabs Living Around Daufuskie Island On Our Hilton Head Crabbing Tours
Hunt for crabs in the Lowcountrys famous salt marshes on our Hilton Head crabbing tours around Daufuskie Island. Perfect for all ages, our passionate captains will help you and your kids learn about the local ecosystem while having buckets of fun!
Daufuskie Island is located in a perfect position to cruise around for 2 hours, looking for a range of interesting shellfish. Well show you the ropes with a quick demonstration, before giving you the gear to see what lurks below. We often find Blue crabs, Stone crabs, Horseshoe crabs, Fiddler crabs, Oyster crabs, Squareback Marsh crabs, Ghost crabs, Hermit crabs and more!
It doesnt stop there either! Well see plenty of unique wildlife, from seabirds to everyones dream sighting dolphins!
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Private Captained Crab Island Tiki Cruise
- You won’t find a lower price
- Book with confidenceLive local support via phone
- Live Chat is ready to helpAvailable 7AM-7PM CST
Take a tiki boat cruise and see the Destin Harbor en route to find dolphins and adventure. Arrive at Destin’s world-famous Crab Island to play in the emerald waters with friends or family. This custom USCG-certified vessel is equipped with a restroom and is perfect for the bachelorette or bachelor in your life or any other private party occasion. So don’t miss out on the fun, book your Crab Island Tiki Adventure today!
- Private Captained Crab Island Tiki Cruise for 8 guests included in Destin, Florida
- Option to add additional guests up to 12 maximum for a fee
- Experience Crab Island, the Destin Harbor, and the Choctawhatchee Bay
- Mix and mingle with locals and other tourists while wading around the sandbar
- See dolphin, schools of fish, rays, & other marine wildlife
- Relax in luxury aboard a custom tiki pontoon boat
- Great experience for everyone of all ages
Duration:3 Hrs.
- Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
- 3 or 6 Hour Private Captained Crab Island Tiki Cruise for 8 guests in Destin, Florida
- Option to add guests for additional fee, up to 12 maximum
- USCG Certified Captain
- Small 6-pack cooler
172 Harbor Blvd, Destin, FL 32541, USA
See Dolphins And Nature Up Close
Island Explorer conducts personalized dolphin and nature eco-tours specializing in intimate, small group excursions. Our custom-built 12-Passenger Carolina Skiffs will accommodate large families or groups. View our fleet of boats.Watch our videos or read an article about Island Explorer by Discover South Carolina.During the summer and early fall we occasionally offer a special expedition in search of dolphin “strand feeding.”
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