How many people can the SS Pelican accommodate?

The private charter can comfortably host up to 16 guests.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, children are welcome and can enjoy the wildlife experience alongside adults.

What wildlife can we expect to see besides dolphins?

Guests often see sea turtles, various shorebirds, rays, and occasionally osprey.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

Yes, the SS Pelican offers easy on-and-off boarding and stable seating throughout the tour.

Can we bring food and drinks on board?

Guests are encouraged to bring light snacks and water; alcohol policies are subject to local regulations and should be confirmed.

What is the best time of day to spot dolphins?

Morning and late afternoon usually provide the most active dolphin sightings.

Private Dolphin Charter on SS Pelican | Dolphin and Nature Tours | Boat Tour | Private

Off the shores of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, Dolphin and Nature Tours invites adventurers to experience coastal wildlife in a way few other tours can match. Their Private Charter SS Pelican offers an exclusive, comfortable setting for groups of up to 16 seeking an intimate encounter with playful dolphins and the surrounding ecosystem. Hilton Head’s waters are rich with bottlenose dolphins, whose acrobatic displays and social behaviors create unforgettable moments on every voyage.

The SS Pelican is a spacious, private vessel designed for a comfortable, personalized tour. Unlike crowded group excursions, this charter lets you connect with nature and your companions on your own terms, whether for family outings, celebrations, or nature photography sessions. The boat’s gentle glide over the tidal estuaries and coastal lagoons brings you close to diverse habitats where dolphins thrive alongside wading birds, osprey, and marsh wildlife.

Hilton Head Island occupies a unique spot on the Atlantic Flyway, where salt marshes and maritime forests coexist with a complex estuarine system. This setting provides ideal feeding grounds for dolphins and abundant opportunities to view other native species. Guests often spot rays, sea turtles, and a variety of shorebirds as part of their journey.

Dolphin and Nature Tours, with its local expertise and commitment to environmental respect, offers a rare window into the region’s dynamic marine life. Their knowledgeable guides share insights on animal behavior and coastal ecology, making every moment educational as well as exhilarating. This private charter experience stands apart in the Southeast for its combination of luxury, accessibility, and wildlife immersion—one of Hilton Head Island’s standout outdoor adventures.

About Dolphin and Nature Tours

Dolphin and Nature Tours is a Hilton Head Island boat operator specializing in guided wildlife and family-oriented excursions in the Broad Creek and surrounding waters.

The company runs the signature Dolphin & Nature Tour, a 1.5-hour cruise that focuses on observing Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins in their natural habitat and includes a guaranteed dolphin sighting or a free return voucher. Additional public and private options include the Sunset Dolphin Cruise, a family-friendly Crabbing Adventure aboard a shaded pontoon with all gear provided for catch-and-release learning, and three private charter vessels — Prince Of Tides (2–24 guests), SS Pelican (up to 16 guests), and Sunny Sea (up to 39 passengers) — tailored for groups, reunions, and special events. Guides provide local knowledge about tidal ecosystems, shore birds, and marine life while prioritizing safety and respectful wildlife viewing practices. Tours launch from Hilton Head Island and focus on scenic waterways such as Broad Creek, offering accessible departures for residents and visitors. The crew emphasizes education, family memories, and minimal wildlife disturbance; interpretive commentary is included on most trips. Reservation policies, vessel capacities, and trip durations are clearly stated at booking, and safety equipment is maintained according to local regulations. Dolphin and Nature Tours markets itself as a reliable operator for guests seeking dolphin watching, nature photography, and relaxed sightseeing on Hilton Head Island, combining comfortable vessels with experienced, knowledgeable crew members to create memorable coastal experiences. Booking is available online and by phone, with flexible scheduling for mornings, afternoons, and private events seasonally.