Drive your own mini boat and spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins on a guided 25-mile tour.
2 hours
Up to 4 people
Mini boat, Guide, Bottled water
Take the helm of a nimble mini boat and follow an expert guide along 25 miles of scenic Lowcountry waterways. Feel the thrill of skimming across Broad Creek and Calibogue Sound while watching for playful Atlantic bottlenose dolphins.
Drivers must be at least 21 years old with a valid driver’s license, and participants must be 5 or older. Pregnant travelers and those with heart, back, or lung conditions should refrain from joining.
Q: What are the age requirements to drive?
A: You must be 21 or older with a valid driver’s license.
Q: Is previous boating experience required?
A: No, guides provide easy instructions before departure.
Q: How many people fit in each mini boat?
A: Up to 4 guests can ride comfortably, with a 1000 lb weight limit.
Q: Will I share a boat with another party?
A: No, your mini boat is reserved exclusively for your group.
Q: Can I bring food or drinks on the boat?
A: You may bring a small cooler with snacks or non-alcoholic drinks. Alcohol is not allowed before or during the tour.
Q: Is parking available at the marina?
A: Yes. Free parking is available at Palmetto Bay Marina for tour guests.
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before the scheduled activity. No refunds within 48 hours or for late arrivals. If the operator cancels due to weather, a full refund is provided.
Palmetto Bay Marina – 86 Helmsman Way Suite 101, Hilton Head, SC 29928
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.
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! 🥂🐬✨
Erika
September 28, 2025
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! 🥂🐬✨
Erika
September 28, 2025