Disappearing Island & Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head
Spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and roam a low-tide island on this 2-hour Hilton Head boat tour
From$49/ person
Search all experiences
Discover what we've curated for you
Spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and roam a low-tide island on this 2-hour Hilton Head boat tour
Discover what we've curated for you
2 hrs
Boat tour, Dolphin spotting, Island stop
Cruise the Lowcountry waterways to meet wild dolphins and step ashore on Hilton Head’s fleeting Disappearing Island. This 2-hour outing blends wildlife observation with beachcombing and local insights from a friendly crew.
All ages are welcome, but include every person, even infants, in your reservation. Expect a 2–3 ft step down from the boat and shallow water wading to reach the island.
Q: Will we see dolphins? What is the best time of day to see them?
A: Yes, dolphin sightings are guaranteed from sunrise to sunset.
Q: Can we feed, touch, or swim with the dolphins?
A: No. Dolphins are protected by the National Marine Mammal Act, so we do not touch, chase, feed or swim with them.
Q: What size or kind of boat are we riding on?
A: You will ride on a 45–55-foot pontoon boat with ample space for everyone.
Q: Is there a bathroom on the boat?
A: Two of the boats have onboard restrooms; ask when booking if this is important to you.
Q: Is the boat handicap accessible?
A: Yes, provided a friend or family member can assist with boarding.
Q: Is parking available at the marina?
A: Yes, free parking is available at the marina for tour guests.
Cancellations are accepted up to 48 hours before the scheduled activity for a full refund. No refunds are given within 48 hours or for late arrivals. If the operator cancels due to unsafe weather, you will receive a full refund.
Palmetto Bay Marina – 86 Helmsman Way Suite 101, Hilton Head, SC 29928
If you're looking for a dolphin tour in Hilton Head that consistently delivers, this operation has clearly figured out the winning formula. The crew here really makes the experience, with names like Kate, Wendy, Pete, Kim, and Bev coming up again and again in glowing reviews. What stands out is how these guides work as genuine teams—captains positioning boats perfectly so everyone gets great views while first mates share fascinating knowledge about dolphin behavior and local ecology. Multiple families mentioned how welcoming the staff was with kids, and several reviewers emphasized that the balance between educational content and relaxed enjoyment was just right. The dolphin sightings seem to be the real deal, not just a hopeful promise. People consistently report seeing multiple pods, including mothers with calves, and the crews clearly know where to find them. Reviewers who've done similar tours elsewhere specifically note this one was better, which says a lot. The boats themselves get praise for being clean and well-maintained. Whether you choose a standard dolphin tour or something unique like the "donuts and dolphins" outing, the vibe is friendly, engaging, and family-oriented. The sunset tours get particular mentions for combining beautiful scenery with wildlife watching. It's the kind of place where people are already planning their return visit before the boat even docks.
We celebrated our 10-year wedding anniversary with Captain Seth, and it was absolutely unforgettable! The weather was perfect, the ride was smooth, and the entire experience felt magical and romantic. Captain Seth went above and beyond to make sure everything was just right—he even found so many dolphins! At one point we were completely surrounded—it felt like paradise. The water was like glass, the music set the perfect vibe, and every detail made the evening special. I’ve been on several tours before, but this one was hands-down the best. Thank you, Captain Seth, for making our anniversary celebration so memorable. It was truly perfect in every way—an experience we’ll cherish forever! 🥂🐬✨
Erika
September 28, 2025
We celebrated our 10-year wedding anniversary with Captain Seth, and it was absolutely unforgettable! The weather was perfect, the ride was smooth, and the entire experience felt magical and romantic. Captain Seth went above and beyond to make sure everything was just right—he even found so many dolphins! At one point we were completely surrounded—it felt like paradise. The water was like glass, the music set the perfect vibe, and every detail made the evening special. I’ve been on several tours before, but this one was hands-down the best. Thank you, Captain Seth, for making our anniversary celebration so memorable. It was truly perfect in every way—an experience we’ll cherish forever! 🥂🐬✨
Erika
September 28, 2025