Enjoy fresh donuts and spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins on a relaxing morning cruise
1.5 Hours
Donuts, Juice or water, Dolphin tour
Start your morning on the waters of Hilton Head Island with fresh donuts and a relaxed cruise. Watch for Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and learn about the local ecosystem from your guide.
Arrive 20 minutes early and complete the electronic waiver. Dress for the weather; you won't get wet. Ramp access to the boat; expect a few steps to board and reach a seat.
Q: Will we see dolphins? What is the best time of day to see them?
A: We see these playful creatures from sunrise to sunset.
Q: What size/kind of boat are we riding on?
A: You'll be on a 40–50 foot pontoon boat. It's covered on top and open on the sides with room for everyone.
Q: What age is the activity suited for?
A: Great for all ages, from infants to adults.
Q: Can we feed, touch, or swim with the dolphins?
A: Dolphins are protected by the National Marine Mammal Act; we do not touch, chase, pursue, harass, feed, or swim with wild dolphins. We observe them without interfering.
Q: Is there a bathroom on the boat?
A: There is a bathroom aboard 2 of the boats; availability varies.
Q: Is the boat handicap accessible?
A: There is a ramp to the boat, with 3–4 stairs to board and about 4 steps to a seat.
Cancel up to 48 hours before your activity. No refunds within 48 hours or if you miss your trip. If the operator cancels for weather or safety, you will receive a full refund.
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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