Sailing & Dolphin Watching with Anchors Away in Bluffton - Charleston

Sailing & Dolphin Watching with Anchors Away in Bluffton

Charlestoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required, with optional light movement aboard the boat

Overview

Set sail from Bluffton with Anchors Away Sailing Charters for private half-day trips that blend hands-on sailing with dolphin encounters. Perfect for families and adventure seekers eager to experience the South Carolina Lowcountry from the water.

Details

Bluffton, South Carolina, offers a watery playground where the Intracoastal Waterway meets coastal salt marshes and tidal estuaries. Anchors Away Sailing Charters positions itself as a premier departure point for sailing adventures that go beyond ordinary boat rides. Their private and half-day sails on vessels like the Seas the Moment and Knot The Office invite visitors to not just see but feel the coastal Lowcountry’s rhythms.

The company’s offerings range from 2-hour private afternoon sails to morning and afternoon half-day trips. Each trip combines hands-on sailing with opportunities to spot an abundance of marine life. Guests frequently report dolphins dancing alongside the bow and encounters with manta rays and jellyfish, turning the voyage into a dynamic wildlife watching experience.

What really sets Anchors Away apart is their commitment to personalized service and comfort. Captains like Paul, Andy, and Dave tailor each sail to the group's pace and interests, seamlessly guiding you through local lore and natural facts while making room for steering the boat yourself. Groups spanning all ages and abilities find the atmosphere both engaging and accessible.

The sailing vessels themselves offer stability and elegance— the 42-foot Seas the Moment is spacious enough for families, while smaller crafts like Knot The Office provide an intimate experience without sacrificing comfort. The company proactively manages weather challenges and scheduling to ensure safe, pleasant outings even on less-than-ideal days.

Anchors Away enriches Bluffton’s coastal adventure scene by connecting nature lovers with an intimate look at this unique ecosystem of marshes, inlets, and marine mammals—right on the water’s surface. From families to sailing enthusiasts, their charters offer unmatched opportunities to unwind, learn, and witness nature’s drama unfold against the backdrop of South Carolina’s Lowcountry.

Adventure Tips

Book Early to Secure Your Spot

Trips fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so reserve your sailing experience in advance.

Dress in Layers

Coastal weather can shift quickly; bring a lightweight windbreaker and sun protection for comfort.

Bring a Camera with Zoom

Dolphins and manta rays often appear at a distance—telephoto lenses capture wildlife best.

Motion Sickness Precautions

If prone to seasickness, take preventive measures such as medication or wristbands before boarding.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Wade Hampton Marshes for birdwatching
  • Quiet coves near Hilton Head for kayak access

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins
  • Southern stingrays

History

Bluffton once served as a trading post and river port in the 1800s, with the Intracoastal Waterway playing a vital role in its maritime culture.

Conservation

Local efforts promote protecting coastal marshlands and marine life, ensuring sustainable use of this rich estuarine environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Early morning light
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • From the bow of the Seas the Moment
  • Alongside the Intracoastal Waterway
  • Near dolphin pods spotted offshore

What to Photograph

Dolphins breaking water
Tidal marsh landscapes
Sunset over the South Carolina coast

Recommended Gear

Windbreaker Jacket

Essential

Protects against coastal winds and changing weather while on the water.

all specific

Non-Slip Shoes

Essential

Ensures safety and comfort when moving about the boat.

all specific

Polarized Sunglasses

Essential

Reduces glare off the water for a clearer view of marine life.

all specific

Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during your sail, especially on warmer days.

all specific

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