Dolphins are beautiful, playful, and a little mischievous. See these locals up close during a sightseeing tour, one of the most fun and memorable things to do in North Myrtle Beach. The key to a successful dolphin encounter is knowing where to go and having the right equipment. Let local outfitters do the heavy lifting and take you on an unforgettable dolphin tour in North Myrtle Beach.
Calabash Fishing Fleet
Dolphins follow the food, which means they’ll follow you on your Calabash dolphin adventure. The highlight of this two-hour cruise on the famous Navigator is when the boat meets up with the Miss Serina shrimp boat. The dolphins will hang around as Miss Serina hauls in its nets and quickly gobble up any shrimp that fall back to the sea.
Once the nets are empty, the first mate will explain the shrimp net’s bounty. The adventure begins at Calabash Fishing Fleet’s home port by Dockside Seafood House and moves through the Intracoastal Waterway and inlet. On the off chance you don’t see any dolphins, the next cruise is free. You can enjoy a dolphin adventure with Calabash year-round.
Voyager Deep Sea Fishing and Dolphin Cruises
Voyager’s dolphin adventure cruise is a two-and-a-half-hour excursion up the Intracoastal Waterway and through the inlet to the Atlantic. Look out for dolphins and watch the local shrimp boat fleet in action. While onboard, enjoy the two decks, two bathrooms, and an indoor snack bar. You can purchase snacks onboard or bring your own in a personal-sized cooler. We recommend making reservations and buying tickets online.
The cruise runs seasonally, from early March through mid-October, features afternoon and sunset tours, and embarks from Doc Holiday’s Marina.
Sea Screamer
This cruise is guaranteed to make a splash! You’ll begin your two-hour max journey with a narrated ride up the Intracoastal before picking up speed while cruising by uninhabited islands and out into the ocean.
Once you hit the Atlantic, the search for dolphins begins, followed by a quick trip along the gorgeous coast. You may get wet, so dress accordingly. Seating under a canopy is available, but those seats can go fast. There’s a box to store electronics and valuables. This cruise is seasonal, starting around April 1 and running through the end of October. If you don’t see a dolphin on your excursion, you’ll receive a free pass to ride again.
Kayak Tours Around Waites Island
Waites island is a serene preserve accessible by boat, kayak, or horseback. You may spot dolphins and other unique marine life around the island. Outfitters like Great Escape Kayak Expeditions offer tours around Waites, where you may see our favorite bottlenose friends. Check area outfitters for availability.
Whichever experience you choose, it’s always a good idea to bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses on your dolphin tour in North Myrtle Beach.
After spotting a pod of dolphins, you’ll want to see them again sometime soon. With so many options to mingle with local dolphins, a new experience awaits you every time you step on our shore.
