Discover the scenic 45-minute ferry ride from Hilton Head Island to Daufuskie Island, a quiet coastal retreat perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and day-trippers alike. With multiple daily departures and optional meal packages, this trip opens the door to one of South Carolina’s most serene island escapes.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–3 hours round trip
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; accessible to most travelers comfortable with boat travel.
Wildlife
History
Daufuskie Island retains a rich Gullah culture, with roots tracing back to African-American communities formed during and after the antebellum era.
Conservation
Efforts on Daufuskie focus on preserving maritime forests and salt marshes, promoting sustainable tourism to protect delicate ecosystems.
Island Head - Broad Creek
Discover the scenic 45-minute ferry ride from Hilton Head Island to Daufuskie Island, a quiet coastal retreat perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and day-trippers alike. With multiple daily departures and optional meal packages, this trip opens the door to one of South Carolina’s most serene island escapes.
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 arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to complete check-in and enjoy the marina views.
Bring Weather-Appropriate Layers
The ferry ride can be breezy; a light jacket helps keep you comfortable on the water.
Carry a Valid ID and Confirmation
You'll need your confirmation email and ID to pick up ferry tickets at the dock office.
Protect Your Camera from Salt Spray
Saltwater mist is common on the ferry; use wipes or protective covers for your gear.
Windbreaker or Light Jacket
Keeps you warm during the cool, breezy ferry crossing.
spring
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from the glare reflecting off the water.
summer
Bug Spray
Helpful for keeping mosquitoes at bay during marina strolls and island exploration.
fall
Camera or Smartphone with Protective Cover
Capture scenic views, but protect equipment from salt spray and moisture.