BULLS ISLAND FERRY
Overview
Boat Ecotour + Island Exploration
DISCOVER BULLS ISLAND: A WILDLIFE ADVENTURE
Embark on a 30-minute ferry ride through oyster-lined creeks to Bulls Island, part of the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge. Along the way, our knowledgeable crew will share insights into the area’s rich history and diverse wildlife, including dolphins, sea turtles, and over 293 bird species.
Once ashore, explore 16 miles of trails and 7 miles of pristine beaches at your own pace. Highlights include encounters with native wildlife, beachcombing, and visiting the renowned Boneyard Beach.
Why We Love It
ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS:
• Native wildlife including American Alligators, Horseshoe Crabs, Fox Squirrels and Bobcats
• 293 migratory and resident bird species
• 16 miles of trails and 7 miles of shoreline
• Beach combing and the jewel of the island, Boneyard Beach
Rates & Schedule
$55 Adults | $35 Kids (3-12) | $0 2 & under
Groups of 5 or more: 1 child free with code FAM5
March 1- November 30 |
December 1-February 28 |
Tuesday • Thursday • Friday • Saturday |
Saturday |
Departs 9 a.m. & 12:30 p.m.Returns 12:30 p.m. & 4:30 p.m. |
Departs 10 a.m.Returns 3 p.m. |
(If you take the 9 a.m. ferry you are welcome to stay all day.)
MEETING PLACE
Garris Landing
498 Bulls Island Road
Awendaw, SC 29429
Please park in the designated “Bulls Island Ferry” area.
THINGS TO KNOW
- Reservations are required for this tour, but booking stays open until 30 minutes before each departure!
- The boat will leave on time. Please arrive 20-30 minutes prior to departure to give yourself time to park, gather your things and walk down the pier to the boat.
- This is a family-friendly expedition that allows you to set your pace once you are on the island. We will provide a map of the island marked with trails and offer advice on where go.
Activity Level
Following a 30-minute eco tour to the island, participants explore the island by foot. The captain and mate can help you plan a route that fits your expectations and time on the island.
What To Pack & Wear
- Water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and snacks
- Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
You’ll need to cancel prior to 72-hours before your scheduled tour to receive a refund.
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.
Collecting Shells & Bringing Bicycles
COLLECTING SHELLS
Please be respectful of the beach and only take a handful of shells. This beach is managed for the protection of wildlife and it is a special privilege to be able to take home a memento. This is not a shelling tour.
BICYCLES
If you’d like to bring a bike, you must make a reservation for it or you will have to leave it at the landing. Call or text (843)884-7684 to reserve. Space is limited. There are no bikes to rent on the island, you must bring your own.
Bikes are welcome on island trails and roads. No bikes are allowed on the beach.
Electric/motorized bicycles are not allowed.
★★★★★
As always, our trip to Bull Island was fabulous. Our guides Nick & Annie were knowledgable, personable, and just over all GREAT! We do this trip every time we visit the area (we have lost count..maybe 6 or 7 times for this tour) & we see something new each time we visit. Highly recommend this tour or any tour with Coast Expeditions…its always a great experience.
