BIRD SANCTUARY KAYAK SAFARI
Overview
Sea Kayaking
3 Hours
Kayak down historic Shem Creek into Charleston Harbor to see a State Heritage Seabird Sanctuary where hundreds of birds nest every summer!
This tour is similar to the 2-hour Charleston Kayak Safari, but this tour is designed for groups that want to go a little further, with the goal to paddle to Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary, a State Heritage Preserve in Charleston Harbor.*
Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary is one of only 5 seabird nesting islands on the South Carolina coast, giving birds like black skimmers, American oystercatchers, terns and Eastern brown pelicans a safe place to raise their chicks each year. During nesting season, it’s a raucous island, filled with hundreds of nesting pairs and their young, making it a special experience to paddle by. We’ll witness this from a respectful distance, making sure that we don’t disturb any birds on the island.
See iconic Lowcountry wildlife like dolphins and bald eagles, egrets, pelicans and ospreys along the way. In the summer months, manatees and sea turtles return to the creek and sometimes pop to the surface as we paddle by.
*If conditions are not right to paddle into Charleston Harbor, we will adapt the tour’s itinerary and we will not go to Crab Bank. You will still have a wildlife-rich tour!
**Crab Bank is closed to landings from March 15 to October 14 to that birds can nest here. We will view the colonies from the kayak.
Why We Love It
In 2018, we created our foundation so that we could work to get Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary rebuilt after it was destroyed by major storms. Following the success of this community-driven project, the Coastal Expeditions Foundation continues to work to protect South Carolina’s five seabird nesting islands like Deveaux Bank and Bird Key.
We love getting the chance to share the conservation story of Crab Bank and paddle alongside the island to see nesting pairs and their young feeding and resting. It’s an unforgettable experience.
Rates & Details
3 Hours
$58 adults | $48 12 & under
Birding | Dolphins & Wildlife | Kayaking
MEETING PLACE
Coastal Expeditions at Shem Creek
514 Mill Street
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
THINGS TO KNOW
- Tour includes gear (Sit-in sea kayak, PFD, paddle, etc.), pre-paddle prep/instruction and guide.
- You do not need any prior kayaking experience to join this tour! We’ll provide all the gear and provide a thorough lesson before we start.
- Kids 12 & under will be in a tandem kayak with an adult.
Activity Level
Participants will kayak on a guided expedition that has been timed with the tides for an enjoyable trip. You do not need to have any kayaking experience, but be prepared to paddle! We’ll teach you everything you need to know to have a great day on the water.
What To Pack & Wear
For this tour, you’ll want to bring drinking water (1 liter) and sunscreen.
Wear shoes that stay on your feet (Tevas-style shoes are best), a hat, and synthetic clothing (it will dry faster than cotton). During cooler weather, dress in layers.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
This tour is non-refundable within 72-hours of the tour date.
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.
