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. While there are a lot of fun things to do in Myrtle Beach, this is one of the best things to do with kids.
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 why not guarantee that you’ll see dolphins during your South Carolina beach vacation?
Myrtle Beach is home to several great dolphin tour companies that offer incredible opportunities to see these magnificent creatures up close.
Here are four of the best dolphin cruises in the Myrtle Beach area that you won’t want to miss!
1. Myrtle Beach Watersports Dolphin Cruises
Myrtle Beach Watersports guarantees dolphin sightings (and if you don’t see one, they let you ride again for free!). They offer three exciting dolphin tour options: the Sea Screamer, the Sea Thunder, and a jet ski tour.
These thrilling boat tours take you on a 1.5-2 hour sightseeing adventure along the Intracoastal Waterway and into the Atlantic Ocean to spot dolphins in their natural habitat.
For these dolphin tours you have three options:
- Sea Screamer: A bright-yellow tour boat that operates seasonally with limited sunset cruises. Departs from 4499 Mineola Avenue, Little River.
- Sea Thunder: An aqua-green tour boat that mainly runs on weekends. Departs from 1568 Watson Avenue, Little River.
- Jet Ski: A private or semi-private tour option that’ll take you through the Intracoastal and barrier islands, time. This tour departs from North Myrtle Beach.
Both boats provide an exciting ride with guided narration and a high likelihood of dolphin sightings. We recommend you book in advance to secure your spot.
2. Voyager Deep Sea Fishing & Dolphin Cruises
Voyager Deep Sea Fishing & Dolphin Cruises offers a unique blend of fishing and dolphin-watching adventures. Their large vessel provides ample space for families to enjoy a comfortable ride while spotting dolphins.
The narrated tour takes passengers through the Intracoastal Waterway before heading into the Atlantic to search for dolphins and other marine wildlife. The entire dolphin tour takes about 2.5 hours.
They sometimes throw a fishing net overboard to show guests the marine life living below, including shrimp, seashells, jellyfish and sting rays to name a few.
This Myrtle Beach dolphin cruise departs from 1525 13th Ave N, North Myrtle Beach.
3. Blue Wave Adventures Dolphin Watch Tour
For a more intimate and eco-friendly experience, Blue Wave Adventures offers private charters and group dolphin tours on their custom-built, quiet eco-tour boats. Their experienced captains provide insightful information about the local ecosystem and ensure a peaceful yet thrilling ride.
All tours last around 1.5 hours. You can choose between four options:
- Tursi-Ops Dolphin Cruise: A slower, more scenic sightseeing cruise through Murrells Inlet. This boat can fit 40 guests.
- Osprey Premium Dolphin Tour: This tour is a little speedier and more adventurous. This boat is smaller and can seat 15 guests.
- Private Tursi-Ops: Rent this larger boat out for a big group excursion.
- Private Osprey: For smaller groups that still want a private dolphin adventure, this is your best choice.
Departs from Crazy Sister Marina, 4123 US-17 Business, Murrells Inlet.
4. Express Watersports Dolphin Cruise
If you want a combination of adventure and relaxation, Express Watersports offers an incredible dolphin cruise with breathtaking ocean views. Their fleet includes comfortable boats with shaded seating, onboard snack bar and restrooms, making it a great choice for families.
This dolphin cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, starting in Murrells Inlet and taking you out to the Atlantic Ocean.
For travelers that want to add even more to their getaway, Express Watersports offers options to pair your dolphin cruise with other watersports activities like parasailing or banana boat rides.
Dolphin watch cruises depart from 4042 US-17 Business, Murrells Inlet.
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:
- Book in advance: Tours can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Most companies allow you to book online, making it even easier to plan your trip.
- Pack essentials: Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and water. Some boats offer snack bars but double check with your tour to see what the boat offers and if you’re able to bring your own snacks or cooler onboard.
- Be Prepared to Get Wet: When the boats are out on the open water and reaching fast speeds, water tends to spray over the edge and get passengers wet so dress appropriately.
- Bring your camera. Due to the wetness of the rides, 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.
- Arrive Early: Seating is first-come, first-served on most tours.
- Check for Discounts: Many tour operators offer deals, especially if you’re staying at a local resort. Our VMB Card offers a number of discounts on tours, activities, and restaurants.
You’ll Love These Dolphin Tours
A dolphin cruise in Myrtle Beach is an experience you and your family will never forget. Whether you’re looking for a high-speed adventure or a relaxing sightseeing tour, these four companies offer some of the best opportunities to see a pod of dolphins and sometimes even sea turtles.
Although the Grand Strand offers numerous watersports, dolphin tours are always a family favorite.