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The Best Dolphin Cruises in Myrtle Beach

By Julia Diem Tuesday, May 23rd, 2023

A beach trip to Myrtle Beach has a lot to offer your entire family but the bucket list item that’s on everyone’s list from young to old? Seeing dolphins! Watching them playfully jump through the waves in their pods or on a solo excursion is sure to bring a smile to your whole family.

If you are lucky, you will get a chance sighting while relaxing at the beach or enjoying an early morning coffee on your balcony at your oceanfront resort. But, there is only a chance that will happen. Why not guarantee that you’ll see dolphins during your South Carolina beach vacation?

Myrtle Beach Watersports does just that – they guarantee that you will see a dolphin (and since dolphins often travel in pods, you will see more than just one) and if you don’t, then they will let you ride on a future cruise for free. Now that’s a great deal, isn’t it?

With 2 dolphin tours to choose between, we’ll cover the basics of both options and some extra tips sure to make your dolphin cruise one to remember.

Myrtle Beach Watersports Dolphin Cruises

While there are plenty of companies offering Myrtle Beach dolphin cruises, we highly recommend Myrtle Beach Watersports. This company has long established itself as one of the best in the area for spotting Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins.

Myrtle Beach Watersports offers two options for guests looking to see dolphins on their vacations: the Sea Screamer and the Sea Thunder. Don’t let the name confuse you - the only screams you’ll hear on this tour are screams of pure joy as you watch lots of dolphins glide through the Atlantic Ocean! While both are super similar, the schedule and pick-up and drop-off locations vary from boat to boat.

Both boats offer 1.5-2 hour long sightseeing tours with one goal in mind: spot as many dolphins as possible! Along the way though, you’ll get a guided tour of the Intracoastal Waterway and you’ll get a chance to see the Myrtle Beach area coastline from a different angle.

Both boat tours operate out of Little River, which is just north of North Myrtle Beach and south of the North Carolina border. The boats are of similar size and both offer canopy seating for those worried about sun exposure. While you can book online to secure a seat, seat numbers aren’t assigned. Arrive early to grab a spot under the canopy or wherever else you and your family would prefer to sit.

Sea Screamer is a bright-yellow Navigator tour boat that operates seasonally on a regular schedule. It also offers limited summer sunset cruises. The pick-up and drop-off point for Sea Screamer is 4499 Mineola Avenue Little River, SC 29566.

Sea Thunder is an aqua marine green tour boat. If you’re visiting us on a weekend, most likely you’ll be on Sea Thunder as that’s when it typically hosts the tour. The pick-up and drop-off point for Sea Thunder is 1568 Watson Avenue Little River, SC 29566.

What the Dolphin Watch Tours Entail

Both boats provide wonderful opportunities for dolphin sightings near Myrtle Beach. Boarding of the boats takes place at a dock by the waterway. As the boat heads out to sea, you will get to enjoy the sights of the Intracoastal Waterway as the tour guide explains the history of the area and points out landmarks along the way.

Then, once you are out at sea the boat flies through the water as everyone on board is on alert for dolphins. Once dolphins are spotted, the boat gets nice and close for a better view.

There’s also a chance you’ll spot other marine life like sea turtles and stingrays, so keep your eyes peeled!

Tips for an Extra Special Dolphin Tour

Want to make sure your boat ride is an extra special one? Here are some tips for a great dolphin tour experience with Myrtle Beach Watersports.

Both boats are 65 feet long and can carry plenty of passengers. However, it is best to make your dolphin tour reservation ahead of time to guarantee your spot on the boat. Seating is not reserved but there is a maximum occupancy for the ride.
Passengers can purchase drinks and light snacks prior to boarding the dolphin cruise and there are a limited number available on the boat. If it’s a hot day you will want to make sure that you have water with you at all times. You can also pack your own small cooler.
There is a bathroom on board, but it is small. It’s best to use the restroom prior to departure.
Plan on getting wet. When the boat is out on the open water and reaching fast speeds, water tends to spray over the edge and get passengers wet so dress appropriately. You can put valuables in the dry locker on board.
Bring your camera. Due to the wetness of the ride, a waterproof camera is preferable. If you don’t have one, a regular camera is fine as well. When dolphins are spotted, the boat will idle so guests have a chance to take photos and watch the dolphins. You don’t have to worry too much about your camera getting wet at this time, but you will want to protect it while the boat is moving.
They offer free cancellation but only if you call within 24 hours of your scheduled tour.
Check out our VMB discounts page to see what their current discount is for those staying at a Vacation Myrtle Beach resort.

You’ll Love This Dolphin Tour

Get ready for a fun adventure you and your entire family will love! Although there are plenty of other great water activities to choose from, a dolphin tour is one of our most recommended. It’s affordable, family-friendly, and something your kids are going to love to share stories about with their friends.

What more could you ask for in a great day at the beach? Be sure to call Myrtle Beach Watersports today to book your dolphin cruise!