Charleston

15 Best Charleston Dolphin Cruises

The dolphin cruises: eco boats working the harbor and creeks where resident bottlenose pods fish year round, indifferent to their audience. Water taxis spot them for the price of a crossing; these go looking properly.

1.Charleston Water Taxi Cruise with Dolphin Sighting

Discover Charleston by water on this affordable water taxi cruise, with chances to see dolphins, visit top landmarks, and enjoy scenic harbor views.

Most Popular★ 5.0

“Great way to visit different places in one day. The view was amazing and we got to see dolphins. The drivers were very nice and friendly.”

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3.Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

Experience Charleston's harbor aboard a classic tall ship for 1.5 hours, enjoying scenic views, dolphins, and a relaxed sailing atmosphere.

★ 4.5

“Laid back harbor tour. This is a tour that lets you sit back and enjoy the sites and isn't guided. But, the captains are also more than happy to answer any questions you may have. We also saw several dolphin pods, which was a great…”

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4.Private Luxury Yacht Charters, BYOB & Dolphins

Experience Charleston from the water with a private luxury yacht. Bring your own drinks, enjoy dolphin sightings, sunset views, and flexible scheduling.

★ 5.0

“No parking at the marina. Other than that, get ready for a super chill time at sea with a more than capable crew. Brian and Judd were a pleasure”

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5.Charleston: Schooner Sailing Experience & Dolphin Watch

Experience Charleston Harbor on a classic schooner, hoist sails, spot dolphins, and enjoy scenic views in this relaxing 1.5-hour sailing adventure.

★ 4.6

“My mom, friend, and I had such a great time on this sailing tour. The crew was awesome! They were super friendly and made the experience really fun. It was a perfect way to stay cool and relax while taking in the beautiful views of…”

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6.Charleston: Schooner Sailing Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch

Experience Charleston’s harbor on a classic schooner, helping hoist sails and spotting dolphins in a relaxing 1.5-hour sailing adventure for all ages.

★ 4.6

“The sail tour ran on time and we were greeted by the crew. The schooner is a beautiful sail boat. Although this was not a narrative tour, the slow sail was relaxing and mesmerizing.”

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7.Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion and Estuary Tour

Experience Charleston’s wildlife on a 1.5-hour Folly Beach dolphin tour with expert guides, scenic views, and a chance to see playful dolphins in the wild.

★ 5.0

“Perfect weather today while observing nature, learning about spartina grass, oysters, and pluff mud and spotting many dolphins. Small group made it an intimate experience with the knowledgeable Captain Luke. Memorable experience.”

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8.Private Sailing, Dolphin and History Tour on Mystique

Experience Charleston’s stunning coastline with a private sailing trip—spot dolphins, see historic landmarks, and enjoy personalized service for up to 6 guests.

★ 5.0

“Exactly what we wanted, great crew, knowledgeable and fun to be around! We enjoyed relaxing on a private cruise and will be back with the kids!”

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9.Charleston: Folly Beach Stand Up Paddleboard Dolphin Safari

Experience a calm 2-hour stand-up paddleboard safari in Folly Beach, spotting dolphins and native birds with expert guides in South Carolina.

★ 4.9

“I would recommend this activity to everyone. Eric was our guide who was FANTASTIC! Both of us were beginners and myself alone was a challenge. It was awesome and very informative. We had to go on one of the hottest days and my daughter started…”

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10.Private Folly Beach Dolphin Cruise (up to 12)

Discover Folly Beach’s natural beauty on a private dolphin cruise, with scenic marshes, Morris Island, and expert guides. Perfect for families, friends, pet lovers.

★ 5.0

“Jody gave the seven of us a wonderful tour. He was so respectful and friendly to the kids. They had a great time. It was a wonderful cruise where we saw dolphins, egrets, and even a mink. We explored the beach and found hermit crabs…”

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13.Private Afternoon Sailing/Dolphin & History Tour on 43ft Mystique

Experience Charleston's stunning harbor, dolphins, and historic sights aboard the private Mystique sailing yacht with knowledgeable guides and exceptional views.

★ 5.0

“The Mystique sailing experience was the highlight of my grandkids’ beach trip. They loved it! The guides were friendly and knowledgeable.”

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