DOMINICK HOUSE EXPEDITION

• The Wind Birds by Peter Matthiessen – A lyrical exploration of shorebirds that mirrors the flocks you’ll see wheeling over Bulls Island’s beaches and impoundments.

• The Sixth Extinction by Elizabeth Kolbert – This Pulitzer Prize–winning work highlights global biodiversity loss, offering context to the fragile ecosystems you’ll walk through on Bulls Island.

• Tideland Treasure by Todd Ballentine – A beloved Lowcountry field guide that invites you to notice the shells, tracks, and tidal clues hidden along Bulls Island’s wild shorelines.

• A New Voyage to the Carolinas by John Lawson – Lawson’s 1709 account of his journey through the Carolina coast provides a window into the landscapes and wildlife much as you’ll encounter them in Bulls Island’s wilderness.

• The Curious Mr. Catesby (University of Georgia Press) – A celebration of naturalist Mark Catesby, whose 18th-century depictions of Carolina birds and plants echo the biodiversity you’ll see firsthand on Bulls.

• Bulls Island by Dorothea Benton Frank – A Charleston author’s novel that, though fictional, evokes the mystery and romance of the island you’ll be exploring.

• Exploring Bulls Island by Bob Raynor – A practical, field-based guide written by a longtime naturalist that enriches your stay with insider knowledge of the island’s trails, habitats, and wildlife.

A packing list will be provided once you make a reservation.

Accommodations are in the Dominick House, a 1920’s manor house located in the heart of the island.  This 6 bedroom/4 bathroom house provides a comfortable place to stay in Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge.   It has heating and A/C, a full kitchen, dining room and comfortable living space.

Please keep in mind that this trip is in high demand and we have a full house with limited rooms. We cannot guarantee that you will have your own private bedroom or bathroom. We will take all the information provided to us at booking into account to accommodate everyone as best we can!

Meals are a hearty mix of southern and coastal-inspired meals that include trailside picnics, big southern breakfasts, and fresh, local seafood.

There is a 50% non-refundable deposit due at the time of booking. If you need to cancel your reservation, you will not receive a refund for your deposit under any circumstances. You must cancel your reservation at least 30 days in advance to avoid being charged the final 50% of your payment. Please understand that this policy is in place due to the high demand and planning required for a specialty overnight outing.

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.

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 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.