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Hilton Head Skiff Dolphin Tour

Quick Details

  • Duration: 2.5 hours
  • Ages: You must be at least 18 years old with a valid driver’s license to drive the boats, Must be 5 years old or older to ride along
  • Pets: No animals of any kind are permitted on tour, including service animals, Weight Limit
  • Tipping: 15% of ticket price is customary if your trip was awesome

Adult

Ages 13+

$ 145

Child

Ages 5-12

$ 125

Skiff Dolphin Tours From Hilton Head

See Dolphins Up Close on Hilton Head’s Top Skiff Tour

Whether it’s your first time on the water or you’re a seasoned boater, the best way to explore nature and spot dolphins around Hilton Head Island is on an Island Skiff dolphin watch tour.

This 25–30-mile drive-it-yourself tour requires no boating experience. After a fun and thorough safety and driving tutorial, you’ll captain your own two-person skiff through scenic creeks, salt marshes, and coastal waterways. It’s one of the most exciting and immersive ways to explore Hilton Head, Bluffton, Daufuskie Island, and the surrounding uninhabited shores.

Glide past wildlife, take in stunning views, and experience the Lowcountry from a whole new perspective—whether you’re here for nature, photography, or pure adventure.

a small boat in a body of water

Wildlife, Water, and Adventure – Your Skiff Dolphin Watch Tour

Each Island Skiff Adventure Tour is designed to deliver fun, education, and unforgettable views of the Lowcountry—whether you’re speeding across open water or winding through a peaceful creek. Every two-person skiff is capable of reaching speeds up to 30 mph, offering a thrilling yet safe way to explore Hilton Head’s stunning salt marshes and beyond.

While the ride is exciting, the heart of the experience lies in wildlife immersion, nature education, and cultural appreciation. Along this 25–30-mile dolphin watch tour, guests frequently spot local dolphin pods, nesting birds, sea otters, and more. Bring your camera—your guide will offer opportunities to pause and capture memorable photos throughout the journey.

Your Tour Route: A Journey Through Lowcountry Wonders

Your adventure begins at Broad Creek Marina and continues through the winding waterways to Bluffton’s scenic May River, then around the private and undeveloped Bull Island—home to wildlife and undisturbed beauty.

Next, you’ll visit Daufuskie Island, known for its rich Gullah heritage, Civil War-era landmarks, and timeless, untouched atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll pass two lighthouses—one functional, one decorative—but telling them apart might just surprise you!

Though the tour route remains consistent, each trip is truly unique. Tide levels, wildlife behavior, and seasonal changes mean no two outings are ever the same. Your experienced guide will share insights throughout the journey and is always happy to answer your questions.

Included With Your Tour

  • 25–30-mile guided drive-it-yourself skiff tour

  • Step-by-step instruction on operating and steering the skiff

  • Ice-cold bottled water and dry storage on each boat

  • Optional shade with a collapsible Bimini top

Good To Know Before You Go

  • A 15% gratuity for your guide is customary and very much appreciated.

  • Passengers must be at least 5 years old. All drivers must present a valid driver’s license at check-in. if under 18 they must pass a SC boaters safety course

  • No boating experience is required—just a sense of adventure!

  • Drivers must be physically capable of steering and boarding the skiff; some mobility is required.

  • We do not allow touching or feeding wildlife for safety and conservation reasons.

  • You may get splashed! Please wear water-friendly shoes like sandals or flip-flops, and avoid clothing that can be damaged when wet.

Island Skiff dolphin tour route hilton head