Spot playful bottlenose dolphins aboard The Captain Johnny while enjoying an Outer Banks sunset.
2 hours
Two-hour cruise, Narrated tour
Unwind on an evening cruise through the calm, protected waters of Roanoke Sound and watch bottlenose dolphins play as the sun slips below the horizon. This two-hour experience is ideal for all ages and runs June through October.
What time do your Dolphin Watch Tour tours depart?
During the summer time, we depart Monday thru Friday at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and around 6 p.m. for the sunset tour. Spring and Fall depends on several factors, call the week you are here for the current schedule.
Do need to make a tour reservation in advance?
We do not absolutely require advance reservations. We prefer to take reservations no more than a week out, it reduces no-shows.
Is there a minimum age for children on your tour?
There is no minimum age for children, we routinely have infants on tours, however, we are limited as to the number of seats that are available so every person counts against that number.
What happens if it rains?
If it’s a little sprinkle and no one is going to melt, then we will continue the tour. Downpours and thunderstorms are a no-go, and we will cancel.
Where do we check in for our tour?
400 Queen Elizabeth Avenue is the parking lot located on the waterfront at the intersection of Budleigh and Queen Elizabeth in Manteo. Our ticket office is floating on the water behind the parking lot.
Tours operate June–October and carry up to 49 passengers. Please arrive 30 minutes before departure. No bananas or outside alcohol permitted.
The Sunset Dolphin Watch has a 72 hour cancellation policy. 90% refund with at least 72 hours notice prior to your sailing time for cancelling tickets. If you cancel within 71 hours of your sailing time or do not show up, you will be charged the full ticket price if we are unable to resell your unused tickets. We have a very short season and a limited capacity and are counting on you to be here at your designated booking.
400 Queen Elizabeth Avenue
We had THE best time! We saw a whole pod of dolphins and there was at least one baby! Would definitely recommend.
Melissa Pellican
October 16, 2025
We had THE best time! We saw a whole pod of dolphins and there was at least one baby! Would definitely recommend.
Melissa Pellican
October 16, 2025