Charleston Dolphin Tour: Private Boat with Local Guide

Summary

Private boat trip in charleston to see dolphins & wildlife

You’ll ride a private boat behind Folly Beach with a local guide who knows where to spot wild dolphins and other coastal wildlife. Watch for rare strand feeding behavior, pass Morris Island Lighthouse, and soak up quiet moments on calm waters — plus cold drinks and all safety gear included. It’s an easygoing Charleston experience you’ll remember long after you’re back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I was a little skeptical when our guide, Captain Mike, promised we’d probably spot dolphins within the first ten minutes. I mean, how do you guarantee wild animals? But sure enough, as we drifted out from Folly Beach into these winding creeks, there they were — two bottlenose dolphins surfacing so close I could hear them exhale. The air smelled faintly briny and sweet, like marsh grass after rain. My niece squealed and nearly dropped her phone overboard (she didn’t, but it was close).

The whole private Charleston dolphin tour felt easygoing — just our small group and Mike pointing out things I’d never have noticed. He showed us where the osprey nest every spring (the parents were home), and at one point slowed the boat so we could watch a pelican dive-bomb for fish. We passed by Morris Island Lighthouse in the distance — kind of haunting against the gray sky that day. There was this moment when everything went quiet except for the slap of water on the hull and some far-off gulls. I didn’t expect to feel so calm out there.

We got lucky: Mike spotted a group of dolphins doing something called “strand feeding,” which apparently only happens here. They actually chase fish onto the mud banks — wild to see up close. He explained it with this half-grin like he still found it cool after all these years. I tried to say thanks in my best Southern accent; he laughed and said not to quit my day job. Anyway, if you’re looking for a day trip from Charleston that’s not just another beach afternoon, this is it. I still think about that view back toward Folly as we headed in — sun breaking through just before we docked.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour

• Explore calm waters behind Folly Beach
• Observe bottlenose dolphins playing, sleeping, and hunting
• Watch possible dolphin strand feeding behavior
• See local wildlife: wading birds, bald eagles, osprey, pelicans, sea turtles

Top questions

How long is the private Charleston dolphin tour?

The tour lasts approximately two hours on the water.

Where does the dolphin tour depart from?

The boat departs from behind Folly Beach in Charleston.

Is a local guide included on this dolphin boat tour?

Yes, a local guide operates the boat and shares insights during the tour.

What wildlife might we see besides dolphins?

You may see wading birds, bald eagles, osprey, pelicans, or sea turtles.

How many people can join this private dolphin tour?

The cruise includes up to 6 people for one price.

Is bottled water provided on board?

Yes, bottled water is provided along with a cooler and ice.

Are lifejackets and safety equipment included?

All lifejackets and required safety equipment are included for passengers.

Can infants or service animals join this boat tour?

Infants are allowed if seated on an adult’s lap; service animals are permitted.

What’s included

Your private Charleston dolphin tour includes a local guide at the helm, all required lifejackets and safety equipment for peace of mind, plus a cooler stocked with ice and bottled water for your group while you explore behind Folly Beach together.