North Myrtle Beach Boating & Dolphin Cruises with Southern Shores - Myrtle Beach, SC

North Myrtle Beach Boating & Dolphin Cruises with Southern Shores

Myrtle Beach, SCeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels; passengers can remain seated or participate actively if desired.

Overview

Southern Shores Island and Dolphin Cruises offers private charters in North Myrtle Beach, blending high-speed thrills with relaxed dolphin sightseeing. From catamaran tours to jet boat rides, this local favorite delivers customizable ocean adventures perfect for families and thrill seekers alike.

Details

Along South Carolina’s Atlantic coastline, North Myrtle Beach offers a vibrant blend of ocean adventure and coastal charm, and Southern Shores Island and Dolphin Cruises delivers an up-close experience that’s anything but ordinary. This locally operated business specializes in private charters ranging from high-speed offshore boating to serene catamaran dolphin cruises, carving out a unique niche for those wanting a hands-on, personalized journey on the water.

Southern Shores offers a selection of tailored trips designed for diverse interests—from adrenaline-pumping jet boat rides skimming the inlet to family-friendly catamaran tours that pause at Bird Island, where kids can collect shells and spot osprey. Whether it’s an inshore fishing outing targeting flounder and trout or an offshore speed cruise chasing deeper waters and panoramic ocean views, each trip delivers expert guidance and a crew that knows the sea.

What sets this operation apart is its intimate scale and adaptable offerings; private charters mean you’re not just another passenger but part of the day’s adventure, with opportunities to drive the boat or DJ the trip soundtrack. The friendly captains and crew blend local knowledge with hospitality, pointing out dolphin sightings, islands, and wildlife while adding personal touches like refreshments and festive 4th of July fireworks cruises.

Beyond the classic coastal scenes, Southern Shores highlights the rich ecosystem of North Myrtle Beach’s waters—dolphins and birds are common sights, giving travelers a chance to engage with native species in their natural habitat. This makes it a standout choice for families, groups, and anyone wanting to trade the crowded beaches for a peaceful, immersive maritime experience under clear Carolina skies.

Adventure Tips

Book Private Charters Early

Reservations fill quickly, especially in summer, so secure your spot in advance.

Bring Sunscreen and Hat

South Carolina sun can be strong on open water; protect your skin during daytime trips.

Wear Non-Slip Footwear

Boat decks may be wet; wear shoes with good grip for safe movement onboard.

Hydrate Before and During

Stay hydrated and consider bringing a refillable water bottle, especially on longer cruises.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Bird Island for shell collecting and birdwatching
  • Quiet inlets ideal for spotting ospreys and pelicans

Wildlife

  • Bottlenose dolphins
  • Ospreys

History

North Myrtle Beach’s waterways have historically supported fishing and coastal trade, shaping its maritime culture.

Conservation

Southern Shores emphasizes environmental respect by limiting passenger numbers and promoting wildlife-friendly practices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour at sunset
Mid-morning light
Early afternoon on crystal-clear days

Best Viewpoints

  • Onboard the catamaran deck
  • At Bird Island shoreline
  • From the jet boat during high-speed rides

What to Photograph

Dolphins in motion
Coastal birds in flight
Sunset skies and water reflections

Recommended Gear

Sunglasses

Essential

Protect your eyes from intense glare reflecting off the water.

summer specific

Light Jacket

Useful for cooler mornings or breezy evenings on the water.

spring specific

Non-Slip Shoes

Essential

Essential for safe footing on potentially slippery decks.

Refillable Water Bottle

Essential

Helps maintain hydration during warm-weather outings.

summer specific

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