HUNTING ISLAND DOLPHIN CRUISE
Overview
Boat Ecotour
We don’t want to jinx it by saying this, but in the years that we’ve offered this tour, we’ve seen dolphins every time (maybe we’ve been skunked once!). If you want to see dolphins in the wild, gather a group for this fun, laid-back outing from our St. Helena Outpost.
Bottlenose dolphins love the protected waters around Hunting Island State Park and take advantage of the “24-hour-all-you-can-eat seafood buffet” that teems under the water.
Dolphins aren’t the only wildlife you’ll see! This rich habitat attracts bald eagles, ospreys, pelicans, blue crabs, herons, ibises and more.
Our guides will deepen your understanding of the area’s ecology by sharing about the local islands and waterways, how they were formed, and what unique features make for an ideal wildlife habitat.
Why We Love It
This 1.5 hour boat cruise is a great outing for all ages and is the perfect introduction to the beauty of the Lowcountry. Get a group of friends and family together for a relaxing boat cruise near Hunting Island State Park!
Details & Rates
$40 Adults | $20 Kids (3-12) | $0 2 & under
1.5 hours
This tour is also available by private charter
MEETING PLACE
Coastal Expeditions at St. Helena Island
1928 Sea Island Parkway
St. Helena Island, SC 29920
From Hunting Island State Park, turn right and drive 5.9 miles. Coastal Expeditions will be on the left.
LOOKING OUT FOR WILDLIFE
On Coastal Expeditions tours, we are careful not to do any thing that interferes with a wild animal’s natural behavior. On our dolphin tours, we follow practices that are taught to us by the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network to ensure that we never cause Atlantic bottlenose dolphins or other any other wildlife stress.
Dolphins are curious and gregarious by nature, and when they appear near the boat, we cut off the engines and enjoy their presence.
ST. HELENA ISLAND TOURS
Activity Level
This tour is suitable for most ages and abilities. You will be on the boat for the duration of the tour and it designed to be a relaxing estuary cruise.
The 1.5 hour St.Helena Sunset Cruise is great for intergenerational families and young children.
What To Pack & Wear
Dress for the weather, with hat and sunglasses. Even during the summer, you may want a light jacket or windbreaker.
Pack sunscreen and drinking water. Bring binoculars if you have them!
Cancellation & Weather Policy
You’ll need to cancel prior to 48-hours or you will not be eligible for a refund for the tour.
Weather (thunderstorms or high winds) may impact this excursion. Cancellations usually occur due to lightning, thunder or high winds and we will make sure to reschedule your group if needed. Our general cancellation policies apply unless our experts determine it is potentially unsafe or unwise to venture out. In the event that we decide to cancel due to weather, we will make every effort to call you at least two hours before your departure and help you reschedule or credit/refund the full cost of your trip.
Guide Safety & Training
All Coastal Expeditions guides hold certifications in first aid, CPR and lifeguarding. Throughout the year, they participate in continuing education and training to ensure that they are proficient paddlers, and all lead guides hold sea kayaking certifications from the American Canoe Association of Level 1 or higher.
Our captains hold 100-ton master captain licenses from the USCG. Coastal Expeditions boats are custom-built vessels that receive yearly inspections from the U.S. Coast Guard.
Gratuity
Gratuity is not included in your tour price. Our guides go above and beyond to make sure you have a fantastic time out on the water! Average gratuity ranges from 15%–25% of your tour cost based on your experience. It is not required, but always greatly appreciated.
“One of the Best Things to Do in Beaufort, South Carolina.”
-Southern Living