Private Dolphin Encounter Charter – Hilton Head

Private Dolphin Encounter

Charter your private Island Life boat for an exclusive 2-hour Dolphin Encounter! Launch from the dock behind The Old Oyster Factory (101 Marshland Road, Hilton Head, SC 29926) for captain-guided dolphin spotting in Broad Creek and Calibogue Sound. Up to 12 guests, fully customized

Book Your Private Tour From $220
Two boats docked at a pier on a calm river with green marshland and a colorful sunset sky with clouds in the background.

Tour Details

  • Duration: 2 hours

  • Departure location: 101 Marshland Road, Hilton Head Island, SC

  • Boat type: 12‑passenger Carolina Skiffs with comfortable seating and great views

  • Price: Private Charter from $220 (4 paid seats minimum)

  • Tour type: Small-group, family‑friendly dolphin tour

A group of people on a boat labeled 'Island Explorer' observing a dorsal fin of a shark in the water.

The Experience

Every trip is a unique experience. Dolphins abound in the Hilton Head waters, and you'll enjoy the thrill of seeing them up close aboard Island Explorer's safe, comfortable boats.

Our experienced Captains engage, entertain and educate young and old alike.

People on a boat in the water at sunset, with a dolphin fins visible nearby.

Tour highlights

  • Your group only on a 12-passenger Carolina Skiff.​

  • Up-close bottlenose dolphin interactions

  • Custom routes through Broad Creek marshes and sound.​

  • Expert captain insights on local pods and wildlife.​

  • Free dock parking; restaurant access before/after

Pricing and availability

  • Price: Private charters from $220 (4 paid seats minimum)

  • Duration: 2 hours

  • Schedule: Several Trips Daily; check our online calendar for today’s exact time.

Check Calendar
Group of children and adults on a boat labeled 'Island Explorer' observing a shark in the water near the boat.

Know Before you go

  • Arrival: Please arrive 20–30 minutes before departure at 101 Marshland Road for check‑in and boarding.

  • What to bring: Light jacket or sweatshirt, sunglasses, sunscreen, and your camera or phone for photos.

  • Food & drinks: You’re welcome to bring snacks and drinks (no glass, please). Small cooler is acceptable.

  • Weather: If weather or marine conditions are unsafe, we’ll make the call at the dock.

Perfect For Private Groups & Special Occasions

  • Families wanting crowd-free dolphin magic.

  • Couples/proposals with captain narration.

  • Small celebrations/bachelorettes.

  • Corporate/team wildlife experiences

Book Now to secure your boat

Frequently Asked Questions

  • We see dolphins on the vast majority of our trips, since they live here year‑round. Because they’re wild animals, sightings can’t be 100% guaranteed—but sunset is one of the best times to see them active and feeding.

  • Yes. The ride is typically calm and our 12‑passenger boat is stable and comfortable. If you have specific mobility needs, contact us before booking so we can help.

  • Yes, you may bring snacks and drinks in cans or plastic containers. Small coolers are welcome; please no glass bottles.

  • If conditions are unsafe, we’ll cancel the trip and you can reschedule or receive a refund. Light rain doesn’t always mean cancellation, but safety is always our first priority.

  • Yes. Sunset trips often sell out, especially during holidays and summer. We require booking in advance to lock in your preferred date, time, and number in your party.

  • No, you may use the restroom prior to departure at the dock.

  • Yes, you may bring your own. No glass or red wine please. Must be of age to consume.