Are kids allowed on the Dolphin Excursion?

Yes, this excursion is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages.

Can I bring my own camera on the boat?

Absolutely! Cameras and smartphones are encouraged to capture dolphin sightings.

What should I wear on the excursion?

Comfortable clothes, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended. Bring a lightweight jacket if weather is cool.

Is this trip suitable for people who can’t swim?

Yes, life jackets are provided and the boat is stable, making it safe for non-swimmers.

Will we definitely see dolphins on the trip?

While sightings cannot be guaranteed, guides choose the best routes to maximize chances of seeing dolphins.

How many people are there per boat?

Boat capacity is kept small to ensure an intimate and comfortable experience.

Dolphin Excursion in Bluffton, SC: Meet Atlantic Dolphins

Experience the natural wonder of Atlantic Bottle-nose Dolphins with May River Excursions on this exciting 1.5-hour Dolphin Excursion in Bluffton, South Carolina. Glide along the scenic May River and nearby waterways as you search for these playful marine mammals in their native environment. The trip offers families and outdoor enthusiasts a unique opportunity to observe dolphins up close while learning about their behavior and habitat from knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife watcher or a first-time boater, this interactive adventure invites you to connect with nature while enjoying the gentle rhythm of the river. Don’t forget your camera—the dolphins’ acrobatics create perfect photo moments. This excursion is designed for all ages and skill levels, making it a fantastic way to spend a morning or afternoon. Beyond dolphins, the trip showcases the peaceful beauty of Bluffton’s marshes and coastal ecosystem, creating an enriching experience that's equal parts fun and educational.

About May River Excursions

May River Excursions operates out of Bluffton, South Carolina, offering a variety of guided boat trips on the May River and surrounding waterways. The company runs fishing outings, dolphin watches, ecology tours, crabbing and shelling trips, historic river excursions, sunset cruises, and customizable backwater adventures.

Trips include options for small private groups and larger groups, with specific experiences tailored to families, anglers, nature observers, and history enthusiasts. Several trips run approximately 1.5 hours, including the Historic River Excursion, May River Ecology Excursion, Dolphin Excursion, Crabbing, and Sunset Excursion. Some fishing trips and the Backwater Adventure Day are offered as private charters.

Many excursions provide bait and equipment; select fishing trips also include licenses and additional gear. Local captains guide trips through the May River, Hilton Head Island backwaters, Daufuskie Island creeks, and vanishing sandbars to search for shells, shark teeth, and marine wildlife. Wildlife commonly encountered on trips includes Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, Great Blue Herons, Bald Eagles, oysters, shrimp, redfish, and sharks. May River Excursions emphasizes hands-on experiences suited to all ages, with interactive crabbing and shelling options and photography-friendly dolphin and sunset trips. The business markets itself to visitors and residents seeking accessible Lowcountry water experiences that combine recreation, wildlife viewing, and local history. Reservations and trip details are available through the company’s booking channels for each listed tour.

Safety briefings and simple, guest-friendly instructions are provided on board to ensure comfortable participation, whether guests are fishing, crabbing, photographing wildlife, or learning about the region’s ecology and culture.