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

“Dolphins sighted, humorous Captain and crew and great bang for your buck. The stops are great for sightseeing and the outdoor market is a must! Great to travel downtown and not have to find parking.”

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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

“Fantastic!!! Great Captain and crew, all very professional, hospitable, knowledgeable, friendly, welcoming. Beautiful views, totally sturdy boat, even in a bit of wind outbursts, only 4 of us passengers in early November.”

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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

“This was the highlight of my trip! The trip was smooth and relaxing. Captain was witty, crew was engaging. They even let me help hoist the sails. Drinks (both alcoholic and nonalcoholic) are available for purchase on the ship. I will 100% do this again.…”

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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

“I have chartered other sailboats in Charleston but this was the very best. The boat was gorgeous and immaculate. The captain, Dustin, and the mate, Adam, were very nice. They are experts on the area's history and nature. We got a great mini education. Our…”

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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

“Awesome! Great time, guidance and experience. We saw dolphins, stingrays and big and little crabs! Some boards are heavy so ask for help if you need it. They are very helpful!”

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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

“Traveling with Captain Jody was the best! He shared his knowledge of the local wildlife and dolphins we saw. We had a full crew of family visiting for the first time and it was one of their favorite parts of their trip. We look forward…”

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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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14.Charleston: Morris Island Dolphin Cruise with Beachcombing

Discover dolphins, shells, and historic lighthouse views on a private boat cruise from Folly Beach to Morris Island. Perfect for nature lovers and shell collectors.

★ 5.0

“We had a great time with captain Billy he was very informative and kind. We got to see dolphins on our way out to the island and he helped teach us how to hunt for shark teeth and where to look. There are plenty of…”

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More Charleston Dolphin Cruises