Overview
We’re headed out to Bulls Island at sunset for a special evening expedition. The dark skies within Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge coupled with a moonless sky will offer us a spectacular look at the Milky Way galaxy.
The expedition begins with a sunset ecotour through Cape Romain with a Naturalist Guide & Master Captain. We’ll make our way to the pristine wilderness beach of Bulls Island around low tide. There will be ample space for each guest to enjoy the evening as they please. If you’re a photographer, set up your gear and get ready for the Milky Way to appear in the sky. If you’re there for the stargazing, find your special spot, spread a blanket and enjoy the experience. After about an hour of Milky Way exposure, we’ll make our way back to the ferry for our return to the mainland, with just the light of the stars reflecting on the water to guide the way.
Reminder: We are operating at the whim of Mother Nature and cannot control cloud coverage. Clear skies or cloudy, this trip is an exclusive opportunity to photograph and enjoy the Boneyard at night, far away from city lights. Be prepared for cloudy or clear!
Why We Love It
Heading out to Bulls Island at night is a true adventure and it is an opportunity to be fully in the moment as you wait for the Milky Way to appear in the sky.
Rates & Details
$75 | 5 Hours
If you’d like to get an email when booking opens for the Fall dates, sign up here.
Seasonal
Departure Point
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.
- The boat will leave on time. Please arrive 15-30 minutes prior to departure to give yourself time to park, gather your things and walk down the pier to the boat.
FAQ’s
Activity Level
Activity level will range based on personal preference. Coastal Expeditions will transport you to the beach where you can enjoy the view from the drop-off point or walk miles of wilderness beach.
What To Bring & Wear
Pack a small backpack with a mat or towels, drinking water & insect repellent, snacks and a small flashlight (preferably with a red light). Optional: binoculars, camera or other optics!
Wear shoes that you don’t mind getting wet (Tevas-style shoes are best), a hat, and synthetic clothing (it will dry faster than cotton). Depending on the time of year, the biting insects can be bad, so we recommend long pants and long sleeves.
Guide Safety & Training
All Coastal Expeditions guides hold certifications in first aid, CPR and lifeguarding. As year-round leaders of day camps and school field trips, our staff is well-trained to keep safety at the forefront. Children wear PFDs while they are on each daily expedition.
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.
Cancellation & Weather Policy
Tickets for this tour are non-refundable unless Coastal Expeditions cancels for weather. You may transfer tickets to someone else to take your spot (just let us know and we’ll make a note for the captain).
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.
Shell Collecting
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.
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.
