Dolphin Encounters
Dolphins are believed to be among the most intelligent animals on Earth and are well known for their playful and carefree nature. Board our custom built eco-tour boat as we search Kiawah’s inlets, creeks and marshes for Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin. Learn more about their habits and behaviors, and the marsh ecosystem as a whole. Although we can never guarantee wildlife on any tours, scheduling our tours in accordance with the ebb and flow of the tide allows us to maximize optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.
Call To Make Your Reservation
(843) 768-6001
Details
| Requirements: | All ages welcome. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations required. |
| Duration: | 1 1/2 hours |
| Fee: | $450 (1-6ppl), $75 each additional adult, $65 each additional child (ages 3-11). *One discounted infant under 2 years old per reservation, once minimum has been met. *A 22% service charge will be added to parties of 10 or more. |
| Capacity: | Multiple boats available to accommodate parties up to 49 passengers. |
| What to bring: | Camera, sunscreen, juice or water, and a hat. |
| Schedule: | This program is offered throughout the year. Please call the Heron Park Nature Center at (843) 768-6001. All ECO charters have a 48 hour cancellation policy. |
From our Town Biologist…..
A variety of marine mammals inhabit the ocean around Kiawah Island. The most common by far is the bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus). Adult dolphins will be 6-10 feet in length and weigh up to 500 pounds or more. These dolphins can be seen frequently in the surf, inlet, rivers, and creeks surrounding Kiawah Island. One of the best spots to see dolphins is in Captain Sam’s Inlet which separates Kiawah from Seabrook Island to the west. Dolphins can often be seen actively feeding in this area. Sometimes observers will see dolphins engaged in an activity known as strand feeding. This typically involves a group of dolphins which will herd a school of fish or shrimp up onto a sandbar or mudflat. Then the dolphins will literally launch their bodies out of the water to feed. It is a unique behavior which is fascinating to watch.
To learn more about Kiawah’s wildlife visit KiawahIsland.org/Wildlife/