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Company's Description:

Island Explorer conducts personalized dolphin and nature eco-tours, specializing in groups of six passengers or fewer. We use upscale Novurania (Zodiac-type) inflatable, and comfortable, shaded deck boats. We also use the latest in quiet engine and low-emission technology.

Accommodations for up to 12 passengers on two boats can be arranged for larger groups and families. Our compact and fast shallow-draft boats allow us to fully explore Hilton Head's pristine waters.

Eco-Friendly and Dolphin Smart

Island Explorer focuses on the natural beauty of Hilton Head Island and offers insight and education about our complex and vibrant eco-system. Guests have wonderful opportunities for taking exceptional photos and for learning more about Hilton Head's dolphins and other wildlife. We follow the Dolphin Smart guidelines for responsible dolphin viewing. You will see dolphins in their natural habitat without harassment or interference.

Experienced Professional Captains

Explore tidal creeks at low tide and get up close to wildlife and friendly dolphin. Our tour guides are USCG-LIcensed Captains and knowledgeable naturalists who have spent years exploring the waters around Hilton Head and surrounding islands.

Capt. Jim Harkins, a USCG Master, has been providing watersports activities for Hilton Head Island visitors since 1978. Jim, also a father, can plan the perfect outing for curious kids - crabbing, castneting, fishing, tubing, or beach combing on surrounding islands. Our trips will truly get you off the beaten path. They are designed to be fun, educational, and to provide lasting memories of your visit to the Lowcountry.

Tours

Dolphins and Nature - One Hour Cruise
Explore the Salt Marshes along Broad Creek. You see lots of Lowcoutry wildlife as well as beautiful real estate, and of course, dolphins. Our introductory trip is a short one hour - perfect for younger kids, senior citizens, and those on a tight budget. Take the small boat trip for the big boat price.

Dolphins and Nature - Two Hour Cruise
Explore the full length of Broad Creek and visit the Calibogue Sound. We'll have plenty of time to spend with the dolphins. You'll see lots of birds, beautiful scenery and waterside mansions. Choose a Sunset Cruise for the added bonus of a beautiful sunset over the water.

Dolphin and Nature Cruise Plus Beach Combing At "Vanishing Island" - Three Hour Cruise
Cruise through the salt marshes and out to the Calibogue Sound looking for dolphins along the way. We'll pass along the shore of mysterious, historical Daufuskie Island, and make our way finally to "Vanishing Island" - a large sand bar exposed only at low tide and accessible only by small, fast, shallow draft boats like ours. Here you'll likely find perfect sand dollars and conchs while viewing pelicans and gulls. You'll relish being in a spot where nearly no one else on Hilton Head can go.

Explore The Lowcountry Backwaters - Three Hour Expedition
Cruise down Broad Creek and cross the Calibogue Sound into the Lowcountry Backwaters. Nature lovers and photographers love this trip. We cruise the creeks around Bull and Barataria Islands spotting birds, dolphins, and other wildlife while relaxing in the serenity of the Salt Marsh. We'll make a stop at Oyster Shell Reef where you can step off the boat onto a remote shell reef along the marsh across from Dafuskie Island. This is a unique adventure offered only during the daily High Tide on certain days.

Explore Daufuskie Island - Three Hour Excursion
From The Old Oyster Factory to The Old Daufuskie Crab Company, we'll cruise the Lowcountry waters to a unique destination - Daufuskie Island. Along the way we'll spot dolphins, birds, and beautiful scenery. On arrival you can explore Cooper River Landing and taste the famous Daufuskie Island deviled crab or just relax a in world apart from Hilton Head Island.

Other Offerings

Tuesday Night Fireworks Cruise
Private Excursions
Larger Parties Up To 12 People

Location: 101 Marshland Rd. behind Old Oyster Factory

Phone Number: (843) 785-2100

Editorials in which Island Explorer is mentioned are:
3 - Walk on the Wild Side
4 - Take a Guided Eco-Tour
7 - Watch the Sun Set
27 - Take a Raft Ride
68 - Discover the Two Faces of Daufuskie