Setting out on a private 2-hour dolphin cruise offers an exclusive opportunity to witness the captivating behavior of wild bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. With a knowledgeable captain as your guide, you’ll have the chance to observe these magnificent creatures up close while also enjoying scenic coastal views and a stop at the historic Morris Island Lighthouse. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this cruise promises to deliver an experience unlike any other.
Key Points
- A private 2-hour dolphin cruise for up to 4 participants, priced from $325 and including a live English-speaking guide.
- Opportunity to see bottlenose dolphins, wading birds, and the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse during the cruise.
- Guided tour exploring the calm waters around Folly Beach, with a chance to observe wild dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Comprehensive package ensuring comfort and enjoyment, with complimentary water, life vests, and essential safety equipment provided.
- Recommendations include sunglasses, sun hats, and weather-appropriate clothing, with a "reserve now and pay later" option available.
Tour Overview
The private 2-hour dolphin cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the tranquil waters around Folly Beach and observe the local marine life.
Priced from $325 for up to 4 participants, this guided tour provides a live English-speaking guide and the chance to see bottlenose dolphins, wading birds, bald eagles, and more.
The 2-hour duration allows ample time to visit the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse and witness the area’s unique "strand feeding" hunting strategy.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this flexible tour is perfect for those seeking an immersive nature experience.
Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Folly Beach
Itinerary & Highlights
This private dolphin cruise departs from the Folly Beach Boat Landing parking lot, located at 97 Center St on Folly Island, South Carolina.
The 2-hour guided tour explores the calm waters around Folly Beach, offering the chance to observe wild bottlenose dolphins as they play, sleep, and hunt.
The cruise also provides opportunities to spot unique salt marsh wildlife, including wading birds, bald eagles, osprey, pelicans, and sea turtles.
After the dolphin watching, the tour pauses for 20 minutes to view the historic Morris Island Lighthouse.
The tour pauses for 20 minutes to view the historic Morris Island Lighthouse after the dolphin watching experience.
Throughout the experience, participants can enjoy the scenic coastal views.
Cruise Experience
As guests board the boat, they’ll have the opportunity to explore the calm waters around Folly Beach.
The cruise offers the chance to observe bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Guests may see the dolphins playing, sleeping, or even hunting using their unique "strand feeding" strategy. This feeding method, exclusive to the area, involves the dolphins driving fish onto the shore and then beaching themselves to catch their prey.
Throughout the 2-hour excursion, guests can also spot other marine life, such as wading birds, bald eagles, osprey, pelicans, and sea turtles.
Inclusions
The private dolphin cruise includes a 2-hour boat trip, as well as a captain to guide the tour.
Guests will also enjoy:
-
A cooler filled with ice to keep drinks cool
-
Life vests and other essential safety equipment
-
Complimentary water to stay hydrated during the cruise
-
No need to worry about glass objects, as they aren’t allowed
-
An experience not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users
The dolphin cruise offers a comprehensive package, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable sightseeing experience on the calm waters around Folly Beach.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
To make the most of the private dolphin cruise, there are a few important details to keep in mind.
Guests should meet at the Folly Beach Boat Landing parking lot, the cruise’s starting point. While sunglasses, a sun hat, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, glass objects aren’t allowed on board.
Guests should gather at the Folly Beach Boat Landing parking lot for the cruise’s departure. Sunglasses, hats, and appropriate attire are advised, but glass items are prohibited on board.
Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Guests can take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option if they need flexibility in their travel plans.
The cruise provides life vests and safety equipment, as well as a cooler with ice.
Want to see more dolphins? We've reviewed these other marine encounters in Folly Beach
Meeting Point
Guests meet at the Folly Beach Boat Landing parking lot, located at 97 Center St, Folly Island, South Carolina. This convenient location provides easy access to the dolphin cruise‘s starting point.
The parking lot offers:
-
Ample space for vehicles
-
Clear signage marking the meeting area
-
Proximity to the boat launch dock
-
Nearby public restrooms
-
Scenic views of the surrounding marshlands
From this centralized meeting point, guests will board the boat and begin their 2-hour private dolphin cruise, exploring the calm waters around Folly Beach in search of the area’s famous bottlenose dolphins.
What to Bring
Although the private dolphin cruise is a comfortable and guided experience, guests should come prepared with a few essential items.
Sunglasses are a must to shield eyes from the sun’s glare and enjoy clear views of the marine life. A sun hat will protect the face and neck from the sun’s rays.
Guests should also wear weather-appropriate clothing, as the coastal weather can be unpredictable. Bringing a camera or binoculars is recommended to capture photos and get a closer look at the dolphins and other wildlife.
Avoiding glass objects is important for safety reasons during the boat trip.
Accessibility and Flexibility
The private dolphin cruise isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as the boat and boarding process may present accessibility challenges.
However, the tour offers flexibility for travelers with the "reserve now & pay later" option.
The tour:
-
May not accommodate guests with limited mobility
-
Requires navigating steps to board the boat
-
Lacks wheelchair accessibility
-
Provides life vests and safety equipment for all passengers
-
Allows for flexible travel plans with the "reserve now & pay later" feature.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need Any Prior Experience to Go on the Cruise?
No prior experience is necessary for the dolphin cruise. The tour is suitable for guests of all experience levels, as it is a guided boat trip with a captain to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
There are no age restrictions for participants on the tour. The cruise is suitable for all ages, though it may not be appropriate for young children or those with mobility issues. Guests should use discretion when booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
The tour allows guests to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise, except for glass objects. A cooler with ice is provided, but additional food and beverages are not included in the tour price.
Is Photography/Videography Allowed During the Cruise?
Photography and videography are generally allowed during the cruise. However, guests are advised to be mindful of not disturbing the wildlife or other passengers. The tour guide can provide guidance on appropriate photo/video practices.
Can I Request a Private Boat for the Cruise?
Yes, customers can request a private boat for the cruise. The tour offers a private 2-hour dolphin cruise for up to 4 participants, with a price starting from $325.00 per group.
The Sum Up
This private 2-hour dolphin cruise offers an exclusive opportunity to observe wild bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat. Guests can enjoy scenic coastal views, a stop at the historic Morris Island Lighthouse, and the chance to see various marine life. With a knowledgeable captain, comfortable amenities, and a focus on safety, this excursion from Folly Beach promises an unforgettable experience for up to 4 participants.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Folly Beach
- Folly Beach: Private Daytime or Sunset Sail, Cooler Provided
- PRIVATE 2HR DOLPHIN CRUISE
- Charleston, SC: Folly Beach Private Sunset & Dolphin Cruise
- Folly Beach to Charleston Airport (CHS) – Departure Private Transfer
- Private 2 Hour Morris Island and River Cruise
- Private Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Folly Beach
- Folly Beach: Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour to Morris Island
- Folly Beach: Morning Dolphin Boat Trip to Morris Island
- Folly Beach: Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour to Morris Island
- Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion
- Folly Beach: Morning Dolphin Boat Trip to Morris Island
- Folly Beach: Private Daytime or Sunset Sail, Cooler Provided
More Tour Reviews in Folly Beach
Still browsing? Here are more Folly Beach experiences we've covered recently
- Folly Beach: Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour to Morris Island
- We Rank Folly Beach’s 2 Top Workshops & Classes
- Folly Beach’s 2 Best 2 Hour Tours
- Charleston Stand-Up Paddleboard Eco Tour
- Our 9 Favorite Folly Beach Dolphin Watching Tours
- 10 Top-Rated Folly Beach Cruises And Boat Tours
- We Rank The 10 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Folly Beach
- 9 Best Dolphin Watching Tours In Folly Beach
- Folly Beach: Morning Dolphin Boat Trip to Morris Island
- Folly Beach: Sunset Dolphin Boat Tour to Morris Island
- Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion
- Folly Beach: Morning Dolphin Boat Trip to Morris Island