CRAB BANK QUEST
DEPARTING FROM SHEM CREEK IN MOUNT PLEASANT
Overview
Sea Kayaking to Crab Bank
Grades 6–12
Paddle with purpose.
Launching from Shem Creek, students kayak through Charleston Harbor to Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary—one of just five designated seabird nesting islands in South Carolina. Along the way, they’ll gain paddling skills and explore the region’s rich natural and cultural history.
Led by Outdoor School guides who helped save Crab Bank in 2018, this trip connects students to real conservation work. Our team are Audubon-trained Shorebird Stewards and passionate advocates for South Carolina’s coastal birds, bringing firsthand insight into the ecology, geology, and biology of the Lowcountry.
No prior kayaking or swimming experience is needed—just curiosity and a willingness to explore.
Why We Love It
Crab Bank is where it all began.
In 2018, we founded the Coastal Expeditions Foundation to help save this vital seabird sanctuary—a nesting ground we’d been paddling past and protecting for nearly 30 years. It’s a place teeming with life and meaning, especially for South Carolina’s coastal bird populations.
That’s why we love bringing students here. On every Shem Creek field trip, they get a firsthand look at what conservation looks like in action—paddles in the water, eyes on the birds, and a deeper understanding of why places like Crab Bank matter.
Options & Rates
2 hours
$45/student
(20 student minimum)
DEPARTURE POINT
Coastal Expeditions at Shem Creek
514 Mill Street
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
THINGS TO KNOW
- For middle and high school students
- No prior kayaking or swimming experience necessary.
- Field trip duration, including on-water instruction is 2 hours
- Two chaperones free; $45/additional adult (space is limited)
Guide Training & Safety
Outdoor School educators and guides receive year-round training and hold current certifications in sea kayak instruction (ACA Level 1 and higher), first aid, CPR and life guarding. Over the last 30 years, Coastal Expeditions guides have led over 100,000 students on field trips, camps, after school programs and internships.
Prior to each field trip, students receive instruction on how to properly paddle a sea kayak and are individually fitted to their PFDs and kayaks.
Our Kayak Fleet
Our sea kayaks are top of the line and are selected for stability and ease of use. Each sea kayak is equipped with a rudder system to assist with turning. Students and teachers use 2-person tandem kayaks and our tours are timed with the tides to make the experience enjoyable.
Year Round Availability
We offer this Shem Creek field trip year round. Dates in the spring and fall fill first. We recommend that you send in your date requests as soon as you know your availability.