The 4 Best Dolphin Watching Tours in South Carolina
South Carolina offers some of the most accessible and lively dolphin sightings along the East Coast. With its extensive coastlines, calm Intracoastal Waterways, and abundant wildlife, it’s a prime spot for spotting these playful creatures in their natural environment. Whether you want a quick thrill or an intimate private experience, there’s a dolphin tour that suits your style.
We’ve evaluated numerous options based on reviews, ratings, value, and what each tour offers in terms of experience. From the lively Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruise with its lively atmosphere and family-friendly vibe, to the private Beaufort experience for a personalized adventure, this list highlights those tours that deliver solid value and memorable encounters.
In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour’s itinerary, what makes each one stand out, practical tips for booking, and who each tour is best suited for. Whether you’re traveling with kids, seeking a scenic boat ride, or craving a private outing, we’ve got you covered.
Quick Overview
Our list includes two group dolphin cruises in Myrtle Beach and Little River, both offering around 2 hours of fun with guaranteed dolphin sightings or a second trip free. The Sea Thunder tour stands out with its wildlife-rich narrated cruise, ideal for families wanting a relaxed, educational experience. Meanwhile, the Beaufort Private Dolphin Excursions is a rare private option, perfect for couples or small groups looking for exclusivity—though it comes at a higher price point and no reviews yet.
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail to help you choose the best fit for your South Carolina adventure.
1. Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruise
The Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruise consistently earns high marks, with a 4.5/5 rating from 455 reviews. For just $28 per person, you get roughly 2 hours on the water, racing along the Intracoastal Waterway and into the Atlantic. The cruise departs from the Big M Casino’s waterfront dock, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.
This tour is tailored for those wanting a lively, interactive experience. The boat itself feels akin to a speedboat, but with the comfort of a yacht—perfect for zipping over waves while keeping an eye out for dolphins. The main highlight is catching dolphins in their natural habitat, often just feet from the boat’s edge, which excites kids and adults alike. The route covers Calabash, Sunset Beach, and other scenic spots along South Carolina’s coast, providing plenty of opportunities for photos.
The crew’s friendliness and enthusiasm shine through in reviews, with many praising the engaging captain and the relaxed vibe. One traveler noted, “Fantastic crew! Made it a memorable experience. Not a bad seat on the boat, views from anywhere.” The tour is best for families, groups, or anyone looking for a quick, fun ocean encounter without breaking the bank.
Bottom Line: A lively, budget-friendly option with high ratings, ideal for families or those who want a quick dolphin fix with scenic coastal views.
2. Sea Thunder Cruise-2 Hour Tour Surrounded by Dolphins in S.C
The Sea Thunder Cruise offers a perfect mix of wildlife viewing and scenic narration. With a flawless 5.0/5 rating from 75 reviews and a cost of $30.74 per person, it provides a slightly more relaxed, educational experience for about 2 hours.
Starting from Historic Little River, the cruise begins with a slow, narrated tour along the Intracoastal Waterway, where you’re likely to see Bald Eagles, Ospreys, and other local birds. Once in open water, the boat ventures into the Atlantic to look for Bottlenose Dolphins, often seen swimming and playing in the waves. The route also gives glimpses of other marine life like sea turtles and stingrays, enriching the experience.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of wildlife richness and laid-back storytelling. It’s more than a dolphin cruise; it’s a small wildlife safari with a focus on education. The crew’s focus on safety and accommodating guests—such as those with disabilities—earned many praise. One review states, “The crew was awesome, the ride was so much fun and wet. And we saw dolphins several times.” The seating is first-come, first-served, so arriving early for a good spot is wise.
Bottom Line: An educational, wildlife-rich cruise that offers excellent value, especially if you enjoy learning about the local ecosystem while spotting dolphins.
3. Sea Screamer Cruise – 2 Hour Dolphin Watch Tour in South Carolina
The Sea Screamer Cruise takes a more casual, fun approach, with a guarantee to see dolphins, or a second trip free. Priced at $30.74, it includes about 2 hours of cruising along Little River’s waterfront, with a narrated tour that highlights the area’s history and scenery.
The main attraction is spotting dolphins swimming and playing in the Atlantic Ocean. The crew’s helpful nature and the boat’s lively atmosphere make it a good choice for families or groups seeking a straightforward, enjoyable cruise. The tour typically starts with a leisurely cruise along the historic waterfront of Little River, then heads out into the Atlantic in search of dolphins.
One reviewer enjoyed the experience, saying, “It was a great boat ride & being able to see the dolphins was a bonus.” However, another noted, “We did not see any dolphins at all,” which underscores the unpredictability of wildlife sightings. Bringing cash for water and soft drinks is recommended, as refreshments are available for purchase onboard.
Bottom Line: A reliable, family-friendly option with a dolphin sighting guarantee, though sightings depend on ocean conditions.
4. Beaufort Private Dolphin Excursions
For those seeking a more personalized experience, the Beaufort Private Dolphin Excursions offers exclusive boat time with up to 6 guests for $439. While this tour has no reviews yet, it’s ideal for couples, small families, or groups wanting privacy and a tailored itinerary.
This tour includes a lunch in historic Beaufort before heading out to search for dolphins, including the chance to see a mother dolphin and her calf. It also offers rich storytelling on the history of Port Royal Sound, one of the East Coast’s largest natural harbors. The tour can incorporate a visit to Daufuskie Island, accessible only by boat, giving an authentic taste of coastal South Carolina life and history.
The private nature of this trip makes it more expensive but also more flexible. It’s perfect if you want a custom experience, perhaps combined with sightseeing and dining. Keep in mind, there are no reviews yet, so you’ll want to ensure the boat’s amenities and captain’s experience meet your expectations.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for small groups or couples seeking a private, tailored dolphin adventure combined with cultural and historical insights, but at a premium price.
How to Choose the Best Dolphin Tour for You
When selecting among these options, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend on the water, and whether you prefer a group or private experience. The Myrtle Beach Cruise offers lively fun at a low price, perfect for families or first-time visitors. The Sea Thunder cruise provides a quieter, more nature-focused outing, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts or those wanting a bit of education. The Sea Screamer guarantees dolphin sightings, making it suitable if sightings are your top priority, but be mindful it’s subject to ocean conditions. For a truly personalized experience, the Beaufort Private Excursion is a luxurious pick, especially if you want to combine cultural sights with dolphin spotting.
Booking early is always wise, especially during peak summer months when tours fill up. Check the weather forecast, as rough seas can affect the experience or sightings. Most tours are suitable for all fitness levels, but private excursions might offer more flexibility for specific needs.
In summary, whether you prefer a lively boat with lots of dolphin action, an educational wildlife tour, or an exclusive private outing, South Carolina’s coastal waters have a compelling option waiting. For families, the Myrtle Beach or Sea Thunder cruises are excellent choices. For couples or small groups seeking intimacy, the Beaufort private trip offers a memorable adventure. No matter what, early booking ensures you don’t miss out on these delightful dolphin encounters.