By Neil Arlett

There’s something about being out on the water around Hilton Head that just slows time down and makes everything feel better. After thousands of tours, I’ve seen what works (and what people often forget), so I thought I’d break down the top 5 things you should absolutely bring with you on a Hilton Head Island dolphin tour with us. Trust me, a little preparation makes your adventure that much more enjoyable.

1. Polarized Sunglasses – Your Dolphin-Spotting Secret Weapon

This suggestion will give you a considerable edge. I don’t leave the dock without mine, and neither should you.

Polarized sunglasses don’t just protect your eyes—they cut through the glare on the water’s surface and give you a better shot at seeing those dorsal fins as dolphins glide by. Our waters aren’t the turquoise of the Caribbean—they’re more of a green-brown, so visibility isn’t crystal clear. Polarized lenses give you that edge.

If you want to catch a glimpse as they come up for air or glide just below the surface, these glasses are your best bet. Bonus: you won’t be squinting in all your photos.

2. Your Smartphone on Video Mode – Skip the Fancy Camera

Everyone shows up hoping to snap that perfect dolphin photo. But the truth? These beautiful creatures move fast—up, down, gone. If you’re fumbling with shutter speed or zoom, or trying to shoot it in plain camera mode on your iPhone, chances are you’ll miss the moment.

The best advice I can give? Use video instead of photo mode. Today’s phones shoot amazing HD video, and you’ll have a better chance of catching the action (plus audio of the oohs and aahs from your group). Later, you can grab still frames from the footage.

3. Sunscreen – And Not Just for Sunny Days

This might sound like a no-brainer, but I can’t tell you how many guests come back more than a little bit pinker after a cloudy cruise. Even under overcast skies or when you’re shaded by our boat’s canopy, the sun reflects off the water from every angle.

Personally, I’m a Hawaiian Tropic SPF 30 or 50 fan, and I reapply every two hours. You should too. Don’t let one of our Hilton Head Island Boat Tours souvenirs be a surprise sunburn.

4. Snacks and Drinks – You Do You

One of the things our guests love most is that we let you bring your own food and drinks on board. We provide the cooler and ice—you bring what you want. Whether it’s water, sandwiches, hard seltzers, wine, or a charcuterie spread, it’s your party.

No $8 boat beers here. It’s especially great for bachelorette parties or families who want a floating picnic. Plus, when you BYO, you control what you eat and drink, and we stay out of the way.

5. Layers (and Maybe a Little Fan)

Weather on the water can be tricky. In summer, you’ll want lightweight, breathable clothing that protects you from the sun—but also gives you the option to cool down. In cooler months or shoulder seasons, dress in layers. A hoodie, long pants, even a hat—because 60°F on land feels a lot colder when you’re zipping across the water at 25+ mph.

Pro tip? Bring a towel to put on your seat so you’re not sitting on hot vinyl. And if you really want to be the MVP of the boat, pack a small, battery-operated fan for the summertime. It’s a game-changer. We’re even looking into boatside coolers that blow air like mini A/C units. Stay tuned on that front—“coolest HHI dolphin tours” might become more than just a slogan!

Bonus: Other Essentials & What to Skip

• Footwear: Flip flops are perfect. Most people ditch their shoes the minute they step aboard.
• Portable Speakers: You won’t need them. Our boats are already equipped with top-notch sound systems.
• Motion sickness pills: Totally optional. We don’t go into the ocean, and our waters are calm.  We’ve never had a single case of motion sickness on any of our Hilton Head Boat Tours
• Weather apps: I recommend WeatherBug for checking accurate hourly forecasts before your trip. Avoid relying on your iPhone’s built-in app—it’s really not that good.

Let’s Cruise

Whether you’re coming out with family, friends, or on a special occasion like a proposal or bachelorette party, planning ahead makes all the difference. I promise it’ll be one of the best parts of your trip. And once we’re out there—phones in video mode, sunscreen slathered, drinks chilled—your only job is to relax, laugh, and keep your eyes peeled for that flash of dorsal fin.

Ready to book your own private Hilton Head dolphin tour? Reach out to us today to plan your perfect cruise.