Disappearing Island Dolphin Tour

duration: 2 hours
cancellation_summary: Cancellations allowed up to 48 hours prior; no refunds within 48 hours.
meeting_point: Palmetto Bay Marina – 86 Helmsman Way Suite 101, Hilton Head, SC 29928
min_age: 1
max_age: 99
group_size: Maximum 48 people
accessibility: There is a 2–3 foot step down onto Disappearing Island; boarding may require assistance for mobility-limited guests.
description: Cruise scenic Lowcountry waters on a relaxed, family-friendly boat tour that combines up-close Atlantic bottlenose dolphin viewing with a visit to the famous Disappearing Island sandbar. Narrated by energetic local guides, the tour offers shelling, dolphin sightings, hands-on moments for kids, plus a photo of your group. The sandbar appears only at low tide, making this experience a unique Hilton Head adventure filled with sights, smiles, and memorable shoreline exploration.
itinerary: 1. 15 minutes - Board the vessel, meet the captain and crew, depart Palmetto Bay Marina and cruise down Broad Creek.
2. 15 minutes - Cruise Broad Creek while the guide shares facts about the marsh, oysters, and local wildlife.
3. 25 minutes - Enter Calibogue Sound and navigate toward Disappearing Island with views of Harbourtown Lighthouse, Daufuskie Island, and Tybee Island.
4. 25 - 30 minutes - Arrive and disembark at Disappearing Island for shelling and exploration at low tide.
5. 25 - 30 minutes - Continue in Calibogue Sound to dolphin feeding, traveling, or socializing zones for observation and interpretation.
6. 15 minutes - Conclude the tour with a family photo, local recommendations, and a special surprise for kids.
highlights: * Tours only run when tides and moon phase allow visits to Disappearing Island
* Guaranteed dolphin sightings with opportunities to learn dolphin names and habits
* Hands-on shelling for sand dollars, starfish, and shells on a sandbar accessible only at low tide
* Energetic local guides, music, and family-focused surprises
check_in_details: Arrive 20 minutes early and check in at the Lowcountry Watersports office at Palmetto Bay Marina – 86 Helmsman Way Suite 101 prior to boarding.
disclaimers: Tours to Disappearing Island occur only when tides and moon phase allow; boat type varies and only two boats have bathrooms—call to confirm if a bathroom is required; boarding and sandbar access may require stepping down 2–3 feet