Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruise Murrells Inlet

When you think of Myrtle Beach, chances are the sun-drenched beaches and lively boardwalk come to mind. But beyond the bustling shoreline, there’s a quieter, more natural side to this area—Murrells Inlet and its surrounding waters, teeming with wildlife, particularly dolphins. For around $50 per person, you can hop aboard the ‘New Inlet Princess’ for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes of scenic cruising, a chance to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat. The tour runs from spring through late summer, giving visitors a solid opportunity to spot these playful creatures, along with other local wildlife and stunning coastal scenery.

We love how this cruise combines relaxation with a touch of adventure—getting out on the water amidst the natural beauty of Murrells Inlet. The enclosed deck with air conditioning and the covered shaded area make this a comfortable experience, even on warmer days, while the open sun deck provides perfect vantage points for wildlife viewing and photos. Another plus is the Dolphin Guarantee, which offers peace of mind—if you don’t spot dolphins, you can easily reschedule or take another cruise within a week, ensuring you’re not left empty-handed.

One possible consideration is that dolphin sightings are not guaranteed—a reality that can lead to disappointment, especially if the weather is calm and the dolphins are not active. Also, snacks and drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, so you might want to bring your own or plan to buy onboard. This tour will appeal most to families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a relaxing boat ride with the chance to see dolphins. It’s particularly suited for those who value authentic wildlife encounters over highly curated or commercialized experiences.

Key Points

• Wildlife Viewing: Excellent chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat with a guarantee backing the experience.
• Comfortable Facilities: Enclosed, air-conditioned deck and shaded areas provide comfort regardless of weather.
• Flexible Rescheduling: If dolphins aren’t seen, you can re-book within 7 days at no extra cost.
• Scenic Nature: Besides dolphins, you’ll see local birds and fish, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of Murrells Inlet.
• Value for Money: At $50, the tour offers a relaxed, memorable experience with professional guides.
• Potential Disappointment: No guarantee of dolphin sightings—a common caveat of wildlife tours.

An In-Depth Look at the Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruise

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour departs from Crazy Sister Marina at 4123 US-17 BUS, Murrells Inlet, a straightforward location that’s easy to find and close to other attractions. The ticket redemption takes place at a separate point in Myrtle Beach, at 1114 Celebrity Cir suite c 314, which adds a small layer of logistical planning. The departure window runs from 12:30 PM to 7:00 PM, providing flexibility for your day.

The cruise is designed to accommodate up to 128 travelers, so it’s a reasonably sized group but still intimate enough for everyone to get good views. The tour is conducted on the ‘New Inlet Princess’, a comfortable vessel with restrooms onboard, essential for family groups or longer days out.

Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise lasts about 75 minutes, during which you’ll glide across the waters of Murrells Inlet, a scenic and relatively shallow estuary. The main goal is dolphin spotting, but the crew also points out other wildlife, such as pelicans, herons, and ibis, enriching the experience.

Guests can mingle on the main deck, enjoying the breathtaking views of the coastline, marshlands, and the sparkling inlet waters. Snacks are available for purchase onboard, allowing for a casual, laid-back experience without feeling rushed.

Wildlife and Scenery

The highlight, naturally, is dolphin sightings. According to reviews, the chances are high, though as with all wild animals, there’s no absolute certainty. One reviewer praised the “funny and amazing” staff, noting that the crew’s sense of humor and knowledge added to the experience—something we agree makes wildlife tours more engaging.

Guests might also see other birds and marine life, which adds layers of interest. The scenery of Murrells Inlet itself—vivid marshlands, boats, and coastal wildlife—provides a picturesque backdrop to your trip. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for spotting wildlife, but they also mean you’re fairly close to the animals, making for better observation.

The Experience and Authenticity

We loved the way this tour keeps things authentic. It’s not a staged attraction but a genuine chance to see dolphins in their natural environment. The Dolphin Guarantee ensures that if your first trip doesn’t produce sightings, you can simply try again—no additional cost or hassle.

However, in reviews, one guest expressed frustration, saying, “we didn’t see a fish or a dolphin,” which underscores the unpredictability of wildlife tours. Still, most guests find the ride enjoyable, even if dolphins don’t show up on schedule. The overall atmosphere—with friendly crew and scenic views—makes it worthwhile.

Price and Value

At $50 per person, the cruise can be considered a good value, especially given the chance to observe wildlife in a natural setting. Many wildlife tours can be pricier, and the fact that this one offers a money-back guarantee if dolphins aren’t seen enhances its appeal.

It’s also worth considering that the experience lasts 75 minutes, meaning it’s a manageable time commitment for most travelers. If you’re seeking a relaxed afternoon activity that combines nature, scenic views, and a bit of adventure, this cruise fits well into most itineraries.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If wildlife and coastal scenery are your jam, you’ll probably enjoy this cruise. It suits families with kids, couples, or solo travelers looking for a mellow but engaging experience. Nature lovers will appreciate the chance to see dolphins and local birds in their habitat.

Those who value authenticity and environmental friendliness will find this cruise appealing. If your goal is to guarantee dolphin sightings, keep in mind that no wildlife tour can promise 100% success, but the guarantee and the knowledgeable crew are reassuring.

Who Might Be Less Enthusiastic?

If you’re looking for a luxurious or highly curated experience, this may not be your best choice. Also, if dolphin sightings are your top priority and you’re concerned about disappointment, you might want to consider the risks before booking.

The Sum Up

This Myrtle Beach dolphin cruise offers a relaxing, scenic way to explore Murrells Inlet and its rich wildlife. The comfortable boat, friendly crew, and scenic environment make it an appealing choice for travelers craving an authentic nature experience. The money-back guarantee adds peace of mind, though the unpredictability of wildlife means sightings are never guaranteed.

For those who enjoy wildlife, scenic waterways, and a laid-back atmosphere, this tour is a solid pick. It’s most suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate a genuine outdoor adventure without the frills of a more commercialized activity. If you’re ready to enjoy some breathtaking views and playful dolphins—or at least the chance to see them—you’ll find plenty to like here.

FAQ

How long is the dolphin cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 75 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery and wildlife without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Crazy Sister Marina in Murrells Inlet, with ticket redemption available at a nearby Myrtle Beach location.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes dolphin sightings, a boat ride with covered shade and air-conditioned and open sun deck areas, and restrooms onboard.

Can I see other wildlife besides dolphins?
Yes, guests often spot birds like pelicans, ibis, herons, and possibly fish or other marine life along the route.

What if I don’t see dolphins on my cruise?
The Dolphin Guarantee means you can reschedule within 7 days for free if no dolphins are seen during your trip.

Is food or drinks included?
No, snacks and drinks are not included but can be purchased onboard if you wish.

This dolphin cruise in Murrells Inlet offers a simple, authentic way to connect with the natural side of Myrtle Beach. It’s a gentle, scenic adventure that’s worth considering for anyone eager to see local wildlife, enjoy coastal views, and relax on the water—just don’t forget, nature keeps its surprises!