Our 4 Best Charleston Dolphin Watching Tours

1.Charleston Water Taxi Cruise with Dolphin Sighting

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 857 reviews · 1 to 11 hours (approx.) Our pick

Use Charleston’s water taxi to move between Patriots Point, Aquarium Wharf, Waterfront Park, and Charleston Harbor Resort. Your ticket includes the scenic dolphin cruise, though sightings are not guaranteed and attraction admission is separate. Captains such as Bryan and Dallas may add local color, but narration can vary by crew.

“Easy, inexpensive and convenient way to see some of the sights in the Charleston area. We decided not to get off at every stop. Still well worth it.”

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2.Charleston: Sightseeing Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 649 reviews · 1h 30m · from $40Best value

Cruise Charleston Harbor for 90 minutes with a licensed English-speaking guide. You’ll pass Fort Sumter, USS Yorktown, the Battery, Castle Pinckney, and the Ravenel Bridge while hearing lively stories about Charleston’s past. Dolphins may appear, and snacks, beer, coffee, and restrooms are available onboard.

“A great harbour cruise. All crew friendly and professional. Parking at Patriots Point pick up available at $5. Good location for visiting USS Yorktown before or after. Our guide was professional and had extensive knowledge. Excellent. Refreshments on board were minimal. Snacks and the filter coffee was nice.”

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3.Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 620 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.) · from $45

Step aboard the 84-foot Schooner Pride at Aquarium Wharf for a 90-minute, mostly quiet sail around Charleston Harbor. The crew raises the sails by hand, points out Fort Sumter, Patriots Point, the USS Yorktown, the Battery, and the Ravenel Bridge, and may let you help with the lines. Bring snacks, buy drinks on board, and watch for dolphins.

“Beautiful harbor cruise on a sunny day in October. Something different and unique to do. Crew was great!”

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4.Private Luxury Yacht Charters, BYOB & Dolphins

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 395 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)

Set out from 33 Lockwood Drive on a private 2.5-hour yacht charter for up to six people. Your captain and first mate handle the sailing while you enjoy Charleston Harbor, Fort Sumter, the Ravenel Bridge, and possible dolphin sightings. Bring drinks and snacks, or request catering. Sunset departures are especially appealing.

“It is a relaxing and beautiful experience. The Captain and First mate made you feel comfortable and was informative of the area. It is not a historical tour experience.”

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