Nesting pelicans; Daniel Island tours; Coastal Expeditions; Shem Creek Tours

The Pelicans have returned.

For the first full season since 2017, Eastern Brown Pelicans are nesting on Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary.  And there are hundreds.  The island is back to the raucous nesting colony that we remember from years back and we couldn’t be happier. After all, this little island is the reason we created the Coastal Expeditions Foundation.

Come out when the light is good on a small-group tour  at sunrise or sunset.  This trip is perfect for photographers, nature-lovers and birders.

2 hours
$85/person
limited to 16 people/trip

June 12 (sunrise)
June 14 (sunset)
June 27 (sunrise)
June 28 (sunset)
August 11 (sunrise)
August 12 (sunset)

MEETING PLACE

Coastal Expedition at Shem Creek
514 Mill Street
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464

THINGS TO KNOW

  • This excursion is suited for all ages and abilities and our custom-built vessel is fully covered for added comfort.
  • The boat will leave at the schedule departure time.  Please arrive 15-20 minutes early to give yourself time to park and check in.
Whimbrel, Birding Expeditions

Our Commitment to Ethical Birding

Coastal Expeditions is very sensitive to the impact that unethical human disturbance represents on fragile populations of shorebirds, seabirds and other wildlife. With guidance from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, the boat will keep a respectful distance from the shore to avoid disturbance.

Coastal Expeditions Guides & Captains

  • receive training from Shorebird Specialists at the SCDNR each Spring
  • participate in active conservation in Cape Romain NWR and Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary
  • several are trained as Shorebird Stewards through Audubon SC

 

Activity Level

This tour is a boat cruise and is suitable for most ages and abilities.

What To Bring & Wear

For this tour, you’ll want to bring drinking water.  You may also want to bring optics like binoculars or a camera.

Dress for the weather.  A light windbreaker jacket is often welcome, even on warm days.

Guide Safety & Training

All Coastal Expeditions guides hold certifications in first aid, CPR and lifeguarding. Lead guides hold ACA Level 1 or higher sea kayaking certifications.

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

This tour is non-refundable within 7-days of the tour date.  

If we have to cancel for weather, we will issue a full refund or reschedule you to a different 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.