Take a scenic 45-minute ferry from Hilton Head Island to the serene Daufuskie Island, a hidden Lowcountry gem known for its unique charm and historic culture. Learn why this water adventure should be on your itinerary.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
45 minutes
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness required; suitable for all ages and abilities
Wildlife
History
Daufuskie Island is historically significant for its Gullah community, preserving African American cultural heritage dating back to the 18th century.
Conservation
The island maintains its peaceful ecosystem by restricting car traffic and emphasizing responsible tourism to protect its unique coastal habitats.
Island Head - Broad Creek
Take a scenic 45-minute ferry from Hilton Head Island to the serene Daufuskie Island, a hidden Lowcountry gem known for its unique charm and historic culture. Learn why this water adventure should be on your itinerary.
Island Head - Broad Creek operates from Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, offering a diverse selection of private charters, cruises, and boat rentals tailored to Lowcountry experiences.
The business hosts sunset and sunrise cruises—private options for up to 34 passengers and intimate two-hour cruises for up to 14 passengers—providing scenic views and local navigation by knowledgeable captains. Guests can choose a Hibachi Dinner Cruise aboard a custom catamaran where chefs prepare hibachi cuisine during a two-hour sunset sail. Private charters on a custom 25ft boat accommodate up to 14 passengers with a USCG captain and can be customized for dolphin watching, swimming, or dining at waterfront locations.
For shorter wildlife encounters, Island Head - Broad Creek runs a 90-minute Sunset Celebration Dolphin Cruise and a 90-minute Dolphin Tour departing from Broad Creek, focusing on Atlantic bottlenose dolphin sightings. Ferry service between Daufuskie Island and Hilton Head departs daily from Freeport Marina with approximately 45-minute crossings. Rental options include a Parker center console boat suitable for fishing or leisure with up to six passengers and pontoon rentals for exploring Skull Creek, the May River, and nearby waterways where dolphins may appear.
All offerings emphasize safe, guided experiences on the water, local route knowledge, and flexible booking for private groups or casual outings. Bookings are available for private events, group outings, and family celebrations with flexible durations and itineraries. Ideal for sunset viewing and wildlife.
Tours Offered
11
Cruises, charters, rentals, and ferry trips
Max Capacity
34
Largest private cruise holds 34
Ferry Crossings
Daily
Daufuskie to Hilton Head daily departures
USCG Captain
Available
On select private charters
Select a sunset cruise, hibachi dinner sail, dolphin tour, Daufuskie ferry, or rental from Broad Creek — options for families and groups.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to get to the floating check-in office at least 30 minutes before departure for smooth boarding.
Bring Layers for Coastal Breeze
Even on warm days, wind can be chilly on the ferry deck—pack a windbreaker or light jacket.
Protect Against Sun Exposure
Use sunscreen and wear a hat to guard against sun while out on the water during the ferry ride.
Carry Binoculars
Bring binoculars for spotting local wildlife like dolphins and shorebirds along the crossing.
Windbreaker or Light Jacket
To stay warm and protected from the coastal breeze during the ferry crossing.
summer
Sunscreen
Essential for sun protection while exposed on the open deck.
summer
Comfortable Footwear
Ideal for walking on piers and exploring Daufuskie Island upon arrival.
Binoculars
Helpful for wildlife watching during the ferry ride and on the island.