Small Boats
Small boats carrying a maximum six to twelve passengers offer an up close and personalized dolphin tour and nature cruise. Our listing include operators that focus on dolphins and nature tours.
You may find other operators such as fishing charters and rental boats that advertise as "dolphin tours" but this is not the main focus of their business. For the best experience choose a full time professional operator that makes safe dolphin experiences a primary focus of their business.
List of Small Boat Operators (
= Top Rated - Our Favorite)
Island Explorer - The Old Oyster Factory Docks - Marshland Road - Mid Island
Island Explorer offers 12 passenger boats. They specialize in Premium Private Tours for dolphin watching and nature tours. Island Explorer was voted "Best Dolphin Tour" on Hilton Head Island by the readers of the Island Packet. This operator is the original creator of the "Vanishing Island Expedition™" and holds a trademark on the name.
Commander Zodiac - Broad Creek Marina
After decades in South Beach, Commander Zodiac has moved to Broad Creek Marina. Commander Zodiac offers 6 passenger boats. They were the first dolphin/eco tour operator on Hilton Head. They use hard-bottom inflatable boats.
Outside Hilton Head - Shelter Cove Harbour - Palmetto Dunes
Outside Hilton Head offers both 6 and 12 passenger boats. They provide a variety of boating opportunities including fishing, tubing and water skiing.
Live Oac Outdoor Adventure Company - Hilton Head Harbour - North End
Live Oac offers 6 passenger boats. They provide a variety of boating opportunities including fishing and water skiing in addition to dolphin cruises.
H2O Dolphin Tours - Harbour Town Yacht Basin - Sea Pines
H2O operates multi-passenger boats. The company offers a wide range of water activities along with dolphin tours.
Dolphin Discovery - Simmons Landing - Marshland Road
Dolphin Discovery offers a 6 passenger boat. They offer dolphin cruises as well as charter fishing.