Explore Hilton Head by private pontoon with a local captain and watch Atlantic bottlenose dolphins up close
1.5 Hours
Up to 6 people
Captain, Private boat, Narration
Set out on a private 90-minute dolphin cruise from Palmetto Bay Marina. Explore Hilton Head’s calm waterways with a local captain and watch Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.
All ages welcome; include every person in your reservation, including infants. Maximum 6 people. There is no restroom on the boat.
Q: Will we see dolphins? What is the best time of day?
A: We see these playful creatures from sunrise to sunset.
Q: Can we feed, touch, or swim with the dolphins?
A: No. Wild dolphins are protected by federal law; we do not touch, chase, pursue, harass, feed, or swim with them.
Q: What size or kind of boat are we riding on?
A: A comfortable 22 foot pontoon boat.
Q: What age is the activity suited for?
A: This activity is great for all ages, from infants to adults.
Q: Is there a bathroom on the boat?
A: No, please use the restroom prior to boarding.
Q: Is the boat handicap accessible?
A: Yes, if a friend or family member can assist with boarding.
Cancellations are accepted up to 48 hours before the activity. No refunds are available within 48 hours. Tours depart on time and no refunds are given if you miss your trip. 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