Ahoy there, future dolphin explorers! If you’re thinking about booking one of the Island’s popular Hilton Head dolphin tours but have a few questions, you’ve come to the right place! Whether you’re dreaming of seeing dolphins up close, wondering what to bring, or just curious about how long you will be out on the water, this post has totally got you covered.

This article answers the top 12 questions I get asked all the time about Hilton Head dolphin tours—so you can plan the best day on the water! Let’s dive in!

1. What Can We Expect to See?

First things first—you’re in for a treat! Hilton Head is home to about 200 dolphins all year long, and in summer, we get even more dolphins visitors. You will also see pelicans, herons, eagles and much more flying around! Oh, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot stingrays, turtles, sharks, or-yep-manatees!

2. How Long Does the Tour Last?

Most Hilton Head dolphin tours last about 1.5 to 2 hours, which I think is the perfect amount of time! You get to cruise around, see dolphins in their natural habitat, and explore all the hidden spots that shorter tours just can’t reach. It’s an awesome way to spend your afternoon or morning.

3. Where Do Hilton Head Dolphin Tours Go?

Where you go really depends on which boat charter service you choose. Most Hilton Head dolphin tours will explore the following areas: The Intracoastal Waterway, Broad Creek, Calibogue Sound, Harbour Town, Daufuskie, Bull Island, and Buck Island.

4. What Should I Bring?

Here’s a simple list of what you’ll want to bring for your Hilton Head dolphin tour:

• Hat & Sunglasses – Protect yourself from the sun and reduce glare off the water.

• Sunscreen – The rub-on kind works best (no sprays, please!).

• Snacks & Drinks – Toss some things in your backpack – two hours on the water is a long time to go without food or drink.

• Life Jackets – We’ve got you covered here; no need to bring your own.

• Cooler & Ice – Check with each provider to see if they have a cooler and ice for you.

5. Will We See Dolphins?

Oh, absolutely! Hilton Head’s waters are full of dolphins, and we have never not seen a dolphin on one of our private boat charters. We recommend doing a quick scan of charters you are interested in and see if they have a dolphin guarantee. For example, on our charters, if we don’t see dolphins we will provide you with a future private dolphin tour at no cost.

6. What Should I Wear?

The key is to dress in or have layers available. It is better to have and not need, then need and not have. In cooler months, layer up with a jacket, sweatshirt, and pants to stay warm on the water. In the summer, light clothes are best—swimsuits and cover-ups are perfect.

7. What Kind of Boat Will We Be On?

It depends if you are on a mixed group or private boat charter. Most private charter boats are limited to 6 people or less. If you are looking for a group boat charter that charges per head, those boats can vary in size. Most of those types of tours are on boats that are in the 50 – 100+ person category.

8. How Many People Can Go on Hilton Head Dolphin Tours?

For private tours, almost all providers will be limited to size passengers per boat. This is a USCG regulation that is industry standard. There are boats that can hold over 6 people, but they are generally mixed group boats of 50+ passengers. We do have a super popular private boat that is commercially certified and holds in between 7 – 20 passengers.

9. Can We Bring Kids?

Most providers are happy to welcome kids but check with the tour provider first to make sure there aren’t any age restrictions. If you’re bringing little ones, it’s better to know their policies in advance vs. when you show up at the dock.

10. What If There’s Bad Weather?

Weather here in the low country definitely can be a little tricky at times, especially during the summer. Each provider has a different weather policy, so be sure to check in advance before booking. This is the most asked question that we get, so definitely check each website for weather cancellation policies.

11. Are There Bathrooms on Board?

Most of the small charter boats (like ours) don’t have bathrooms. The larger group boats and yacht charters will have a bathroom for sure. If a bathroom is a must for you, be sure to ask before booking. Most charters being 1.5-2 hours in total, it doesn’t really become much of an issue. We recommend just regulating your liquid consumption accordingly.

12. Will I Get Seasick?

It is highly unlikely! Hilton Head’s waters are calm and protected, so seasickness isn’t a common issue. We have run thousands of tours, and it has never been an issue. If you’re worried, feel free to bring some motion sickness meds just in case. As a heads up, none of the Hilton Head dolphin tours head out into the open ocean, so there’s no need to worry about big waves.

In Conclusion

Now that you know what to expect, you’re ready to book your next adventure on the water! We hope that you have a total blast on your Hilton Head Dolphin Tour adventure:)

About the Author

Captain Neil has lived here on Hilton Head for over 20 years, so I know these waters like the back of my hand. As a partner and master captain with Hilton Head Boat Charters, I’ve spent countless days out on the water showing folks how amazing this place is. Whether we’re exploring hidden creeks or chasing dolphins, I’m all about making your experience unforgettable. Let me take you on an adventure you’ll never forget!