Jet Ski Dolphin Tour Myrtle Beach: Ride Your Own Watercraft

Pilot your jet ski to wild dolphins at water level

A 2-hour guided jet ski tour in Myrtle Beach where you ride your own watercraft through the Intracoastal Waterway and into the Atlantic Ocean to watch bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles and rays in their natural habitat. Each jet ski holds up to two people (400 lb weight limit). The price is per ski. Safety briefing and equipment are included. You must be 18 or older with a valid driver's license, and anyone born after July 1, 2007 needs a boater's license (temporary licenses available online).

The experience

What sets this apart from a dolphin cruise is that you're the one controlling the jet ski. You start with a safety briefing and operating instructions at the dock, then follow an experienced local guide who knows where the dolphins congregate. The route takes you through the scenic Intracoastal Waterway first, where you'll pass waterfront homes and coastal scenery, then heads into the open Atlantic Ocean where the dolphins actually are. The guide supervises your riding and points out wildlife (bottlenose dolphins jumping nearby, sea turtles, rays), while you navigate at your own pace under their direction.

The 2-hour tour includes free riding time and a stop at one of the barrier islands, where you can stretch your legs and walk an undeveloped beach nature preserve. Lifejackets and all safety gear are provided. You'll keep your personal belongings in a locked box on shore during the excursion. The tour is designed for both beginners and experienced riders. The guide adjusts the pace and intensity based on the group's comfort level.

Each jet ski seats a maximum of two people with a combined weight limit of 400 pounds, and the price quoted is for two riders on one ski. You must bring a valid driver's license and be at least 18 years old. Free parking is available on site, and public transportation options are nearby if you need them.

What’s included

• Safety briefing and operating instructions.
• lifejackets and all safety equipment.
• free parking on site.
• a stop at a barrier island nature preserve to stretch and explore.
• personalized guidance from an experienced local guide throughout the 2-hour ride.

Before you book

Days and timesThursday to Saturday7 departure times: the first at 10:00, the last at 16:00

Book up to2h before

GroupUp to 12

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on siteUS$ 75

Prices and times updated yesterday

Good to know

Low physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Ride the Tide Jet Ski Adventures

Is this one for you?Small groups and couples work well here since each jet ski holds up to two people and you're riding your own watercraft rather than sitting as a passenger on a tour boat. The fixed 2-hour format and guided route mean you're not planning the dolphin-spotting yourself. The guide takes you to where the dolphins are.

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Can I ride a jet ski if I've never done it before?

Yes. The tour includes a safety briefing and operating instructions before you leave the dock, and it's designed for both beginners and experienced riders. The guide supervises your riding throughout the 2 hours and adjusts the pace to match the group's comfort level.

What wildlife will I actually see on this tour?

Bottlenose dolphins are the main attraction. You'll be at water level where they swim and jump nearby. Sea turtles and rays are also common sightings in these waters, along with expansive ocean views of the Myrtle Beach coastline.

How much does it cost if two of us want to ride together on one jet ski?

The price listed is per jet ski for up to two people, so one booking covers both riders on the same watercraft. The combined weight limit is 400 pounds.

What do I need to bring or know before booking?

You must be 18 or older with a valid driver's license. If you were born after July 1, 2007, you also need a boater's license. Temporary licenses are available online. Lifejackets and safety equipment are provided, and free parking is included on site.

What happens to my phone, wallet and keys during the tour?

You'll keep your personal belongings in a locked box on shore while you're out on the water. The tour does not include a waterproof phone case, so plan accordingly if you want to bring a camera or phone.

Is there a stop during the 2-hour tour?

Yes. The tour includes a stop at one of the barrier islands where you can stretch your legs and explore an undeveloped beach nature preserve before heading back.