We're here to help
    Book online or call (650) 414-7338
    1. Local experiences/
    2. Hilton Head Island, SC/
    3. Animal Encounters/
    4. Dolphin Watching/
    5. Disappearing Island Dolphin Tour

    The very best experiences curated by local experts

    Best local prices
    Flexible cancellations
    Private & secure
    Greetwell

    Trusted by leading vacation properties and hotels, Greetwell helps travelers feel at home wherever they go. Enjoy curated experiences that carry you from the comfort of your stay into the heart of the local community.

    Safe & Secure Payments

    Guest Support

    • Help Center
    • (650) 414-7338
    • [email protected]

    Company

    • About
    • Nominate Providers
    • Hospitality Partners
    © 2025 Greetwell, Inc. All rights reserved.
    Privacy PolicyTerms
    Gallery image
    Gallery image 1
    Gallery image 2
    Gallery image 3
    Gallery image 5

    Disappearing Island Dolphin Tour

    Spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and roam a low-tide island on this 2-hour Hilton Head boat tour

    From$49/ person

    Duration

    2 hrs

    Includes

    Boat tour, Dolphin spotting, Island stop

    Highlights

    Cruise the Lowcountry waterways to meet wild dolphins and step ashore on Hilton Head’s fleeting Disappearing Island. This 2-hour outing blends wildlife observation with beachcombing and local insights from a friendly crew.

    1. Glide aboard a spacious 45–55 ft pontoon boat
    2. Watch Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat
    3. Stroll the sandbar accessible only at low tide
    4. Hunt for shells, sand dollars and starfish
    5. Learn coastal ecology from knowledgeable local guides
    6. Capture memorable photos of the Lowcountry scenery

    What's Included

    1. Guided boat cruise
    2. Dolphin spotting and island stop
    3. Shelling and educational commentary

    Things to know

    All ages are welcome, but include every person, even infants, in your reservation. Expect a 2–3 ft step down from the boat and shallow water wading to reach the island.


    FAQs

    Q: Will we see dolphins? What is the best time of day to see them?

    A: Yes, dolphin sightings are guaranteed from sunrise to sunset.


    Q: Can we feed, touch, or swim with the dolphins?

    A: No. Dolphins are protected by the National Marine Mammal Act, so we do not touch, chase, feed or swim with them.


    Q: What size or kind of boat are we riding on?

    A: You will ride on a 45–55-foot pontoon boat with ample space for everyone.


    Q: Is there a bathroom on the boat?

    A: Two of the boats have onboard restrooms; ask when booking if this is important to you.


    Q: Is the boat handicap accessible?

    A: Yes, provided a friend or family member can assist with boarding.


    Q: Is parking available at the marina?

    A: Yes, free parking is available at the marina for tour guests.

    Cancellation policy

    Cancellations are accepted up to 48 hours before the scheduled activity for a full refund. No refunds are given within 48 hours or for late arrivals. If the operator cancels due to unsafe weather, you will receive a full refund.

    Meeting location

    Palmetto Bay Marina – 86 Helmsman Way Suite 101, Hilton Head, SC 29928

    Perfect for

    • Families with kids seeking gentle wildlife encounters and easy beach exploration
    • Couples looking for a relaxed, scenic morning or sunset on the water
    • Multigenerational groups wanting accessible Lowcountry adventure for all ages
    Experience provided by Lowcountry Watersports
    Experience provided by Lowcountry Watersports

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text (650) 414-7338

    Reference #4VH76E

    Adult

    $49.99

    Ages 13+

    0

    Child

    $39.99

    Ages 2 - 12

    0

    Infant

    $10

    Ages 1 and under

    0

    Handpicked for you, so you can book with confidence

    • Best local prices

    • Flexible cancellation

    • Private and secure

    Each booking directly supports small businesses in our community.

    4.9 stars• 9.4K reviews

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    9.4K reviews•Google Maps

    If you're looking for a dolphin tour in Hilton Head that consistently delivers, this operation has clearly figured out the winning formula. The crew here really makes the experience, with names like Kate, Wendy, Pete, Kim, and Bev coming up again and again in glowing reviews. What stands out is how these guides work as genuine teams—captains positioning boats perfectly so everyone gets great views while first mates share fascinating knowledge about dolphin behavior and local ecology. Multiple families mentioned how welcoming the staff was with kids, and several reviewers emphasized that the balance between educational content and relaxed enjoyment was just right. The dolphin sightings seem to be the real deal, not just a hopeful promise. People consistently report seeing multiple pods, including mothers with calves, and the crews clearly know where to find them. Reviewers who've done similar tours elsewhere specifically note this one was better, which says a lot. The boats themselves get praise for being clean and well-maintained. Whether you choose a standard dolphin tour or something unique like the "donuts and dolphins" outing, the vibe is friendly, engaging, and family-oriented. The sunset tours get particular mentions for combining beautiful scenery with wildlife watching. It's the kind of place where people are already planning their return visit before the boat even docks.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    We celebrated our 10-year wedding anniversary with Captain Seth, and it was absolutely unforgettable! The weather was perfect, the ride was smooth, and the entire experience felt magical and romantic. Captain Seth went above and beyond to make sure everything was just right—he even found so many dolphins! At one point we were completely surrounded—it felt like paradise. The water was like glass, the music set the perfect vibe, and every detail made the evening special. I’ve been on several tours before, but this one was hands-down the best. Thank you, Captain Seth, for making our anniversary celebration so memorable. It was truly perfect in every way—an experience we’ll cherish forever! 🥂🐬✨

    Photo of Erika

    Erika

    September 28, 2025

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    We celebrated our 10-year wedding anniversary with Captain Seth, and it was absolutely unforgettable! The weather was perfect, the ride was smooth, and the entire experience felt magical and romantic. Captain Seth went above and beyond to make sure everything was just right—he even found so many dolphins! At one point we were completely surrounded—it felt like paradise. The water was like glass, the music set the perfect vibe, and every detail made the evening special. I’ve been on several tours before, but this one was hands-down the best. Thank you, Captain Seth, for making our anniversary celebration so memorable. It was truly perfect in every way—an experience we’ll cherish forever! 🥂🐬✨

    Photo of Erika

    Erika

    September 28, 2025