Hilton Head Guided Boat Tour: Explore Dolphins, Creeks & Coastal History
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness is required to handle boat controls and balance on the catamaran in varying water conditions.
Overview
Take the helm of an easy-to-drive catamaran on this exhilarating 25-30 mile guided boat tour around Hilton Head Island. Spot dolphins, glide through creeks, and uncover the island’s rich coastal history.
Hilton Head Guided Boat Tour
Starting at $125 | Ages 5+ | 2 Hour 15 Min | 25+ Mile Excursion
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 25-30 mile dolphin watch and boat tour around Hilton Head and nearby islands. Operate your own easy-to-drive catamaran while exploring hidden gems, learning fascinating history, and spotting dolphins. Experience the excitement of racing down rivers and cruising creeks in a safe, guided adventure.
25+ mile excursion through salt marsh and local waterways!
Rates
Adults (ages 13 and up) - $145 Children (ages 5-12) - $125
Duration
2 hours and 15 minutes
About
Do you want to try something exciting and different on Hilton Head Island this year? Come join us while we explore Hilton Head, Bluffton, Daufuskie, and other surrounding islands on a 25 – 30-mile dolphin watch and drive-it-yourself boat tour.
On our Hilton Head dolphin tour, we make stops for dolphins, talk about interesting history, and see great sights along the way. Our guides lead the way in a separate but identical boat while you operate our easy-to-drive, two-person catamaran, which is known for being compact yet quick. Our boats are perfect for racing down rivers and cruising creeks.
We also show you hidden gems and talk about things we are sure you never knew about our island. Like, did you know we have over 15 private islands between Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, and Daufuskie Island? What about the Harbor Town lighthouse not being real? These are just a few of the many things we talk about on our dolphin tour.
You can feel safe while “skiffing” with Island Skiff Adventure Tours on our brand-new, two-person CraigCat catamaran boats. Our models are equipped with 30 hp outboard engines that allow you to go to speeds of 30 mph. We provide ice water and dry storage on each guided boat tour of Hilton Head. Every catamaran also has a bimini top that provides shade for those who request it during our excursion.
Adventure Tips
Lookout for Wildlife
Bring binoculars and a camera to catch dolphins and coastal birds in action during your cruise.
Wear Layers
Coastal weather can change quickly; dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout your trip.
Sun Protection
Use sunscreen and wear a hat to protect yourself from prolonged sun exposure on the open water.
Safety Briefing
Pay close attention during the safety briefing to confidently operate the boat and have a secure outing.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bottlenose dolphins
- Great blue herons
History
Hilton Head Island’s transformation from a 19th-century cotton plantation to a modern resort community shapes much of its cultural heritage.
Conservation
The tours prioritize eco-friendly navigation practices to protect sensitive coastal ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Hilton Head Island
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare reflecting off the water while navigating.
summer specific
Waterproof Jacket
Stay dry and warm during unexpected coastal showers and sea spray.
spring specific
Water Bottle
Keep hydrated under the sun during the several-hours-long tour.
Binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing from the boat.