We're here to help
    Book online or call (650) 414-7338
    1. Local experiences/
    2. Things to do in Hilton Head Island…/
    3. Animal Encounters/
    4. Dolphin Watching/
    5. Hilton Head Dolphin & Disappearing Island Tour
    Why travelers choose Greetwell

    Curated by our team

    Every experience is hand selected and approved by Greetwell.

    Personal concierge

    Real humans available to help before, during, and after your booking.

    Intimate & authentic

    Including unique in-home experiences you won't find anywhere else.

    Easy booking & cancellation

    Reserve in minutes with free cancellation on most experiences.

    Greetwell

    Experiences that stay with you long after the trip

    Greetwell curates authentic local experiences and provides personal concierge support in over 500 destinations, helping you explore confidently wherever you go.

    About

    • Our Story
    • For Experience Providers
    • For Hospitality Partners
    • For Developers

    Concierge Support

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

    Safe & Secure Payments

    © 2026 Greetwell, Inc. All rights reserved.
    Privacy PolicyTerms
    Product image 1
    Product image 2
    Product image 3
    Product image 4
    Product image 5
    Product image 6
    Product image 7
    Gallery image
    Gallery image 1
    Gallery image 2
    Gallery image 3
    Gallery image 5

    Hilton Head Dolphin & Disappearing Island Tour

    Spot wild dolphins and explore a rare low-tide island on a private two-hour cruise.

    4.9 stars• 9.9K reviews
    From$401incl. taxes and fees

    Duration

    2 hrs

    Ideal For

    Up to 6 people

    Includes

    Private pontoon charter, Local captain

    Highlights

    Cruise Hilton Head’s waterways on a private boat to observe Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and step ashore on a rare disappearing island. Enjoy free time for shell hunting while your local captain shares Lowcountry ecology.

    1. Glide aboard a 22-foot pontoon with a knowledgeable crew
    2. Watch playful dolphins in their natural habitat
    3. Disembark on a sandbar accessible only at low tide
    4. Hunt for shells, sand dollars and starfish
    5. Capture unforgettable photos of coastal scenery

    What's Included

    1. Private pontoon boat charter
    2. Experienced captain and crew
    3. Guaranteed dolphin sightings

    Things to know

    All ages welcome. Maximum 6 guests per booking. Expect a 2-3-foot step down onto the island and brief wading through shallow water; no restroom onboard.

    Cancellation Policy

    We allow cancellations up to 48 hours prior to scheduled activity. All of our activities have limited availability so absolutely no refunds are available within 48 hours. Tours leave on time and no refunds are given if you miss your trip. In the event of inclement weather it is up to the captain or guide to make a determination based on safety. If we cancel an activity we will provide a full refund.

    FAQs

    Yes, dolphin sightings are guaranteed from sunrise to sunset.

    Feeding, touching, or swimming with wild dolphins is illegal and not permitted.

    The tour uses a comfortable 22-foot pontoon boat.

    Meeting details

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

    Perfect for

    • Families wanting a guided nature adventure with kids who love wildlife and exploring
    • Small groups of friends seeking an intimate Lowcountry experience away from crowds
    • Couples looking for a romantic private boat tour with photo opportunities and local charm

    Meet Lowcountry Watersports

    Verified•Speaks English (US)
    Lowcountry Watersports

    Based out of Hilton Head’s historic Palmetto Bay Marina, Lowcountry Watersports invites you to experience the island like a local—by water. Passionate captains and naturalist guides blend safety with a spirit of fun, piloting brand-new boats, jet skis, kayaks, and nimble “Creek Cats” through quiet marshes and dolphin-rich creeks. From relaxed sunset cruises to splash-filled pirate adventures for kids, every outing welcomes all ages and skill levels. Thousands of five-star reviews and a genuinely friendly crew ensure you feel part of the Lowcountry story from the moment you step aboard.

    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

    Report an issue

    Reference #S789FA

    Private tour (6 passengers max)

    $401.74

    (6 passengers max)

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.9
    Excellent
    9.9K 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

    Had a great time cruising out to see some dolphins on a nice April morning. Captain Steve and First Mate Ray Ray were great. Ray Ray shared lots of dolphin facts and we had a ton of active dolphins. My toddler enjoyed it and especially loved getting to “steer the boat” for a minute.

    Photo of Nora Carson

    Nora Carson

    April 3, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    Had a great time cruising out to see some dolphins on a nice April morning. Captain Steve and First Mate Ray Ray were great. Ray Ray shared lots of dolphin facts and we had a ton of active dolphins. My toddler enjoyed it and especially loved getting to “steer the boat” for a minute.

    Photo of Nora Carson

    Nora Carson

    April 3, 2026

    Nearby activities

    Thumbnail
    Jet Skiing

    Spot Dolphins & Wildlife on Hilton Head Jet Ski

    From$178
    Thumbnail
    Dolphin WatchingUp to 4

    Guided 2-Hour Mini Boat Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head

    From$210
    Thumbnail
    Boat Tours

    Sunset Mini Boat Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head

    From$263
    Thumbnail
    Boat Tours

    Hilton Head Sunset Boat Cruise with Live Music

    $52.99/ person
    Thumbnail
    Speed Boating

    Drive Your Own Creek Cat Guided Tour in Hilton Head

    From$153/ person
    Thumbnail
    Dolphin Watching

    Disappearing Island & Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head

    From$52/ person