Two exceptional dolphin-watching options await at Folly Beach, near Charleston. The best choices hit the sweet spot between comfort and wildlife viewing.
The Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise earns high marks for its intimate setting aboard a well-maintained vessel, increasing your chances of quality dolphin encounters. Meanwhile, the Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise stands out for its expertly guided trips to Morris Island, where visitors can witness fascinating strand feeding behavior (July-September).
Both tours feature seasoned captains who emphasize safety while sharing insights about local marine life. They maintain a respectful distance from the dolphins while maximizing viewing opportunities.
Check out these carefully selected tours below.
Key Points
- Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise offers a highly-rated and memorable experience to witness Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat.
- Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise provides a 2-hour excursion exploring creeks and Morris Island, with the opportunity to observe dolphins’ unique strand feeding behavior.
- Both tours depart from a convenient location in Folly Beach, ensuring easy access for visitors.
- Friendly and knowledgeable captains enhance the overall enjoyment of the dolphin watching experiences.
- Safety is a top priority, with necessary equipment provided, though the tours are not wheelchair accessible.
Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise
The Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty of Charleston’s waterways and the graceful movements of dolphins in their natural habitat.
This highly-rated tour boasts a 95% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, making it a must-try experience for visitors to Folly Beach. The cruise departs from a convenient location in the heart of Folly Beach, and participants can expect to be transported on a comfortable blue T-top boat named “Blue Moon.”
Guests will enjoy a cooler filled with ice and bottled water, and those 21 and over can indulge in alcoholic beverages during the journey. Safety is a top priority, with lifejackets and other necessary equipment provided.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it welcomes service animals, and infants can sit on laps. The Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise promises a memorable and relaxing outing, filled with stunning sunsets, thrilling dolphin sightings, and a welcoming, knowledgeable captain.
Read our full review: Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise Review
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Folly Beach: Morris Island and Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise
Departing from the heart of Folly Beach, the Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise offers visitors a captivating 2-hour excursion to explore the serene creeks, marshes, and historic Morris Island.
Priced from $49 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation by pontoon boat, a live guide, and a visit to Morris Island. With a capacity of up to 18 guests, the cruise provides opportunities to spot wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and observe their unique strand feeding behavior from July to September.
During the tour, guests can also hunt for fossils, sea shells, and sand dollars on the island’s beach. The experience is further enhanced by an eco-talk about the Folly River and Folly Beach.
Travelers are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks, although glass bottles are prohibited.
With a 5-star rating based on 13 reviews, the Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise is praised for its friendly and knowledgeable captain, as well as the overall enjoyment of the experience.
Read our full review: Folly Beach: Morris Island and Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Equipment Do I Need to Bring for the Dolphin Watching Tours?
For a dolphin watching tour, one should bring a camera, binoculars, sunscreen, and a hat. It’s also important to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Bringing a small snack or water is recommended to stay hydrated during the tour.
Are the Tours Suitable for Young Children or Elderly Participants?
The tours are generally suitable for young children and elderly participants, though some physical agility may be required. Most tour operators accommodate those with limited mobility and provide life jackets for added safety.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Beverages on the Boat Tours?
Yes, most dolphin watching tours allow passengers to bring their own food and beverages aboard the boat. It’s a good idea to check with the tour company beforehand to confirm their policies on outside food and drinks.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Dolphin Watching Excursions?
The maximum group size for the dolphin watching excursions varies by tour company, but most limit the group to around 20-30 passengers to ensure a comfortable and personalized experience. Guests should check with the specific tour operator for their group size policy.
Are There Any Restrictions or Guidelines for Photographing the Dolphins?
Most dolphin watching tours have guidelines for photographing the dolphins. Participants are typically asked to avoid using flashes, getting too close to the animals, and disturbing their natural behaviors. Adhering to these rules helps ensure the dolphins’ safety and well-being.
Recap
Folly Beach offers several excellent dolphin watching tours. The Private Charleston Sunset & Dolphin Cruise and the Folly Beach: Morris Island and Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise are two highly-rated options. Both provide an opportunity to observe dolphins in their natural habitat while enjoying scenic views and a relaxing boat ride. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, these dolphin watching tours are a must-do activity in Folly Beach.