CHARLESTON · DOLPHIN WATCHING
Good dolphin watching tours fill up in season and the great ones go first. Below: the 15 to book early, what each includes and how they differ.
Review of Charleston’s water taxi, with dolphin sightings, four harbor stops, practical timing, value, accessibility, and booking tips.
“Very nice experience. The captain pointed out sights to see along the way. Process to board and disembark were smooth and time-efficient.”
Review of Charleston’s 90-minute harbor cruise, with Fort Sumter, USS Yorktown, live history narration, dolphin sightings, and practical tips.
“Very good history information. Tour guide was very informative.”
Sail Charleston Harbor aboard the Schooner Pride, with Fort Sumter, dolphins, the Ravenel Bridge, and a relaxed 90-minute trip.
“It was so fun! They really give you the experience you signed up for. We saw dolphins and they provided drinks and a few snacks as well.”
Review of Charleston’s private yacht charter with BYOB, dolphins, Fort Sumter, sunset views, crew details, pricing, parking, and practical tips.
“This relaxing sailboat trip was exactly what we needed! The crew was very attentive and personable and all 4 teenagers enjoyed themselves!”
Sail Charleston Harbor aboard the Schooner Pride, help raise its sails, spot dolphins, and enjoy views of Fort Sumter for $48.
“We had an incredible time celebrating my sister’s birthday on the boat!! Everyone on board was friendly and attentive. Drinks were flowing and vibes were vibing. The crew members were always asking us if we wanted them to take our pictures along the ride. The captain even learned the cords to Happy Birthday on her ukulele and gave us a performance! I hope to be aboard again soon! Lovely experience!”
Review of Charleston’s Folly Beach dolphin and estuary tour, with Morris Island Lighthouse, marsh wildlife, pricing, tips, and booking advice.
“Quite an enjoyable fun boat excursion in learning about the local marshes, oysters, dolphins, and rich history of the area. Loved the many times our tour guide and captain sped through the waters. Looking forward in bringing my wife to share the same experience. Thank You!”
Review of Charleston’s private Mystique morning sail, with dolphins, Battery views, Fort Sumter, the Ravenel Bridge, and practical booking advice.
“I have chartered other sailboats in Charleston but this was the very best. The boat was gorgeous and immaculate. The captain, Dustin, and the mate, Adam, were very nice. They are experts on the area's history and nature. We got a great mini education. Our group of 5 ranged in age from 30 to 75. Every person said they would this trip higher than a 5 if they could. Book this one!”
Paddle the Folly River near Charleston, learn SUP basics, watch for dolphins, and choose a morning, afternoon, or sunset safari.
“Pat was an extraordinary guide! He was full of information and a ton of patience! Our 3 woman 1 child crew was a handful and Pat was super chill about the whole experience! We did get to see dolphins, in fact they got really close to all of us! You guys book this tour!”
A practical review of the Folly River Dolphin Adventure near Charleston, with Morris Island, dolphins, wildlife, pricing, tips, and FAQs.
“Beautiful sunset tour. Our captain was charming and personable, and his knowledge was impressive. We saw the lighthouse, multiple dolphins, and the most beautiful sunset I can remember. Nick is a gem, let my kid drive the boat.”
Review of Charleston’s private 43-foot sunset sail with BYOB drinks, dolphins, Battery views, Fort Sumter, and the Ravenel Bridge.
“What a great night! The boat was beautiful and Adam and Walker were both friendly, fun and informative. We loved our cruise and celebrated a birthday on board. Sunset was beautiful and we will definitely be booking again.”
Review of Charleston’s private 50-foot morning sail, with dolphins, harbor landmarks, BYOB flexibility, catering, and value for groups of six.
“The boat was gorgeous and the scenery was spectacular but my friend Aubrey and I were most impressed by the ship’s captain Scott and his first mate Josh. Their ability to sail perfectly was noted by Aubrey as he sails regularly in NC where we are from. Thank you for such a memorable experience. We will be back and will request Scott and Josh.”
Review of Charleston’s private Mystique sailing tour, with dolphins, harbor history, Fort Sumter, pricing, timing, and practical booking advice.
“We do many tours/activities when we travel. Our friends, my wife and I agree that this was the best we ever taken!! It was super relaxing and informative. The views were fantastic. Captain Scott and Sam were awesome. We'll definitely do this again when we return to Charleston.”
Review of Charleston’s private Morris Island dolphin cruise, with beachcombing, shark teeth, shells, lighthouse views, and practical tips.
“Captain Billy was friendly and knowledgeable. The trip was exactly as advertised and very enjoyable.”
Paddle the Folly River, learn easy kayak skills, and look for bottlenose dolphins on this friendly two-hour Charleston morning tour.
“We enjoyed our guide, Prudence, and being so up close to the dolphins. Everyone at Folly Beach Kayak was so kind and helpful. We just loved every moment!”
Paddle the Folly River, learn kayaking basics, and look for bottlenose dolphins on a relaxed two-hour Charleston safari.
“Had a great time out in the kayak. The guide was so patient while I was learning . It was a great experience as a beginner.”
Pick a coast, or pick the kind of morning you want.
