Bird Sanctuary Kayak Safari | Shem Creek 3-hr

Overview

This tour is similar to the 2-hour Charleston Kayak Safari, but on this tour we go a little further so that we can experience 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.

In the off-season with seabirds aren’t nesting, we can get off on the island (staying below the high tide line) and look for fossilized shark teeth!

We’ll also see iconic Lowcountry wildlife on the 3-hour Safari  like bottlenose dolphins and bald eagles.  Along the oyster-lined banks, egrets and herons hunt for crabs and shrimp while osprey fly overhead.  In the summer months, manatees and sea turtles return to the creek and will sometimes pop to the surface as we paddle by.  We’ve led tours on Shem Creek for 30 years and we’re still amazed at the amount of wildlife that congregates here.

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

Coastal Expeditions Kayak Image
man kayaking at sunset near fishing boats in Charleston, SC

Departure Point

COASTAL EXPEDITIONS AT SHEM CREEK
514-B 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.

FAQ’s

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.