Folly Beach: Morris Island Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise

Imagine stepping aboard a spacious pontoon boat and embarking on a captivating two-hour journey through the tranquil Folly River and along the picturesque Morris Island. This eco-friendly tour promises an unforgettable experience as you witness the breathtaking dolphin activity in their natural habitat. Knowledgeable guides will lead the way, sharing insights into the unique "strand feeding" behavior of the bottlenose dolphins and providing ample opportunities to capture the moment through incredible photos. But the adventure doesn’t end there – prepare to be immersed in the rich history and natural wonders of this remarkable coastal gem.

Good To Know

• This two-hour boat tour offers the opportunity to observe dolphins in their natural habitat along the Folly River and Folly Beach.
• The tour includes an eco-talk, as well as the chance to explore Morris Island for fossil and sea shell hunting.
• Guests can witness the unique "strand feeding" behavior of dolphins, which is a highlight of the tour (July – September).
• The tour is wheelchair-accessible, and full refunds are available up to 24 hours in advance for added flexibility.
• Guides provide knowledgeable and enriching commentary, creating an immersive experience akin to a National Geographic expedition.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Morris Island Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise is a thrilling two-hour adventure that takes visitors on an up-close exploration of the local estuary and the chance to witness the incredible sight of dolphins strand feeding.

Priced from $55 per person, this tour accommodates up to 18 guests and is led by knowledgeable guides who provide an eco-talk about the Folly River and Folly Beach.

Guests can look forward to spotting dolphins in the wild, hunting for fossils and sea shells on Morris Island, and experiencing the unique dolphin behavior of strand feeding during the summer months.

Wheelchair-accessible and with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the Charleston area.

Itinerary and Highlights

Starting from 83 Center St, the Morris Island Dolphin Watching Boat Cruise takes guests on an unforgettable journey to witness the stunning Morris Island Lighthouse and explore the captivating local estuary.

The experience includes:

1. Thrilling dolphin watching in their natural habitat.
2. An eco-talk about the Folly River and Folly Beach.
3. Opportunities to hunt for fossils, sea shells, and sand dollars on Morris Island.
4. A chance to witness the unique "strand feeding" behavior of dolphins (July – September).

This immersive tour promises a one-of-a-kind adventure, akin to a National Geographic expedition, right in the heart of the Lowcountry.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking this unforgettable dolphin watching adventure couldn’t be easier.

Simply reserve your spot without any upfront payment through the convenient "reserve now & pay later" option.

And if your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, no questions asked.

The tour’s flexible schedule allows you to check availability for various start times, so you can find the one that best fits your itinerary.

With free cancellation and the ability to pay later, you can secure your spot on this one-of-a-kind Morris Island experience with total peace of mind.

Amenities and Guidelines

You’ll find a bounty of amenities and guidelines to enhance your Morris Island dolphin watching adventure.

The cruise includes round-trip transportation by pontoon boat and life jackets for children 13 and under.

Feel free to BYO – bring your own coolers, snacks, and drinks (no glass bottles).

Just be mindful of the limited parking spaces at the meeting point and avoid boat landing spots.

With these practical considerations in mind, you’re set to learn about the stunning natural landscape and witness the incredible dolphin behaviors, like strand feeding, that make this cruise a truly memorable National Geographic-worthy experience.

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Customer Feedback

With a stellar 5-star rating based on 8 reviews, this Morris Island dolphin watching cruise has captivated adventurous travelers.

Reviewers rave about the incredible experience, likening it to a National Geographic-worthy adventure. Guests were thrilled to witness the dolphins’ unique strand feeding behavior, a rare sight they’ll never forget.

The knowledgeable guides earned high praise for enriching the experience with their expertise on the local estuary and Folly Beach ecosystem.

Whether it’s the unforgettable dolphin sightings or the treasure hunt for fossils and seashells, this tour consistently delivers a one-of-a-kind, immersive encounter that leaves participants eager to return.

About the Lighthouse

As the pontoon boat glides along the tranquil waters, the iconic Morris Island Lighthouse comes into view, standing tall and proud against the backdrop of the sparkling Folly River.

This historic structure, dating back to 1876, has become an integral part of the Lowcountry’s coastal landscape. Visitors can admire its distinctive black-and-white stripes, which were designed to aid maritime navigation.

The lighthouse offers a glimpse into the area’s rich history, serving as a beacon for ships for over a century. Guests on the dolphin watching tour can:

1. Snap stunning photos of the lighthouse from the boat.
2. Learn about its fascinating history and construction.
3. Imagine the lives of the lighthouse keepers who maintained the light.
4. Appreciate the lighthouse’s role in the region’s maritime heritage.

Dolphin Sightings and Behavior

The tour’s crowning moment arrives when the boat quietly approaches the local estuary, where majestic bottlenose dolphins ply the waters.

Guests hold their breath as the sleek, gray mammals suddenly surface, gracefully leaping and twisting through the air. The guide points out their unique "strand feeding" behavior, where the dolphins herd fish onto the shoreline and then beach themselves to feast.

Visitors are enthralled, snapping photos and marveling at the dolphins’ agility and intelligence. This mesmerizing display of nature in action is a highlight of the tour, leaving guests with a profound appreciation for the delicate coastal ecosystem.

Exploring Morris Island

Stepping onto the sun-kissed shores of Morris Island, guests embark on a captivating exploration of this secluded coastal gem.

From hunting for fossils and sea shells to discovering sand dollars along the shoreline, the island offers a wealth of natural treasures.

Wandering the tranquil trails, visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the local estuary, keeping an eye out for a variety of bird species and the occasional glimpse of local wildlife.

The opportunity to witness the unique strand feeding behavior of dolphins adds an extra layer of excitement to this unforgettable adventure.

Key Highlights:

1. Fossil and shell hunting
2. Sand dollar discovery
3. Estuary exploration
4. Chance to see strand feeding dolphins

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour welcomes adventurers of all ages, but children 13 and under must wear lifejackets for their safety. With no minimum age requirement, the entire family can embark on this thrilling dolphin-watching excursion along the stunning coastal landscape.

Are There Any Restrictions on Bringing Children?

The tour welcomes children of all ages, but provides lifejackets for those 13 and under. Families can bring their little ones along to witness the dolphins’ incredible strand feeding behavior and explore the island’s fossils and shells.

Is There a Time of Year That Is Best for Dolphin Sightings?

The best time to spot dolphins is during the summer months, from July through September, when the unique ‘strand feeding’ behavior is most prevalent. Witnessing these powerful predators surge onto the shore is a truly thrilling experience.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?

Absolutely! Bring along your camera gear and get ready for an up-close encounter with the incredible marine life. The knowledgeable guides encourage capturing those unforgettable moments during the dolphin-watching adventure.

What Should I Wear/Bring for the Tour?

Dress for the elements – wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes. Bring your camera, sun protection, and a light jacket or sweater. Don’t forget drinks, snacks, and excitement for an unforgettable wildlife adventure!

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating journey through the tranquil Folly River, spotting dolphins in their natural habitat and uncovering ancient fossils on Morris Island. This eco-friendly cruise offers an unforgettable adventure, immersing you in the wonders of the Lowcountry. With knowledgeable guides, ample photo opportunities, and a spacious pontoon boat, it’s the perfect way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Folly Beach.

You can check if your dates are available here: