Hilton Head: Private Sunset Cruise with Dolphin Views & BYOB

Summary

Hilton Head sunset cruise private boat dolphins BYOB family time

You’ll board your own private boat right across from Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge for a two-hour sunset cruise around Hilton Head. With a local captain guiding you past Daufuskie Island and Harbourtown lighthouse, you’ll spot dolphins up close while sharing drinks from your BYOB cooler. Expect laughter, stories, and those golden moments families remember long after vacation ends.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — we almost missed the dock because my dad insisted on one last photo at Pinckney Island. The air smelled like salt and sunscreen, and by the time we finally clambered onto the boat, our captain (I think his name was Mike?) just grinned and said, “No rush — you’re on island time now.” I liked that. The boat felt sturdy but not fancy, which actually made me relax. My niece immediately started asking about dolphins — apparently she’d heard they were “guaranteed,” which sounded like a tall order to me.

We drifted out into Calibogue Sound, past Daufuskie Island looking all mysterious in the hazy light. The water was glassy except for the occasional ripple from something below — sure enough, after maybe ten minutes, there they were. Dolphins. Not doing tricks or anything, just gliding along beside us like it was their daily commute. My sister tried to film but ended up laughing too hard when one splashed her (the video is mostly giggles). Our guide pointed out Harbourtown’s lighthouse off in the distance and told us how it flashes every 30 seconds at night — I had no idea.

I’d brought some ginger beer (BYOB is encouraged), and we passed around cold drinks from the ice-filled cooler while the sun started dipping lower. There’s this moment when everything goes kind of gold and quiet except for the slap of water against the hull. My mom got teary for a second — she said it reminded her of summers when we were kids, which made me weirdly nostalgic too. It wasn’t perfect; someone spilled a drink and my nephew kept asking if sharks lived here (they do, apparently). But honestly? That’s what made it feel real.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Hilton Head Sunset Cruise

• Start across from Pinckney Island Refuge
• View Daufuskie Island from Calibogue Sound
• Option to see Hilton Head lighthouse
• Relax and enjoy sunset on private cruise

Top questions

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed on this Hilton Head sunset cruise?

Dolphin sightings are guaranteed during the private Hilton Head sunset cruise.

Where does the Hilton Head private sunset cruise start?

The cruise starts directly across from Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge in Hilton Head.

Is this sunset cruise suitable for kids and grandparents?

Yes, all ages are welcome—families often bring kids and grandparents together.

Can we bring our own drinks on board?

Yes, the cruise is BYOB-friendly and includes a cooler with ice for your drinks.

How long is the private Hilton Head sunset cruise?

The cruise lasts approximately two hours on the water.

Will we see Harbourtown lighthouse during the tour?

You have the option to head toward Harbourtown lighthouse for water views during your cruise.

Is there comfortable seating on the boat?

The boat offers comfortable seating designed for family groups to relax together.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on board during your private sunset cruise.

What’s included

Your evening includes a private two-hour boat ride with a USCG-certified captain guiding you past Hilton Head landmarks like Daufuskie Island and Harbourtown lighthouse. There’s guaranteed dolphin watching along Calibogue Sound, plus a cooler stocked with ice so you can enjoy any drinks you bring aboard before returning to shore as dusk settles in.