- by Conrad O'Connell
Imagine gliding through the sparkling waters of North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Atlantic Oceanâs coastline and the playful presence of dolphins leaping alongside your boat. Dolphin cruises offer an unforgettable way to connect with nature and experience the joy of seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Whether you're seeking a thrilling speedboat ride, a relaxing catamaran cruise, or an educational jet ski adventure, North Myrtle Beach along the Grand Strand has a variety of dolphin tours to suit every taste and age group.
These are the best North Myrtle Beach dolphin tours.
Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruises
Photo Credit: myrtlebeachdolphincruises
- Book a Tour: myrtlebeachdolphincruises.com
- Tour Time: 1 ½ to 2 hours.
- Ages: All Ages
Dolphin sightseeing should be at the top of your itinerary! Experience the thrill of the Sea Screamer and Sea Thunder, two popular dolphin cruise vessels in Little River. Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruises offers a family-friendly adventure where you can bring your own food and drinks in a soft cooler. Arrive early for seating under the canopy. Restrooms are available before and after the cruise for your convenience.
Enjoy a close-up view of dolphins and other marine life while cruising along scenic waterways. The Sea Screamer and the Sea Thunder offer the same tours, but they depart from different docks.
This exciting dolphin tour offers three experiences in one cruise. Your tour guide will explain the ecosystem of the Intracoastal Waterway and then will take you on a sightseeing tour around uninhabited islands before you pass the jetty and head out to sea to spot your dolphins.
Traveling with a big family? Large groups are welcome! They also offer private charters if you plan to bring your extended family.
After your dolphin adventure, grab a bit to eat at Crab Catchers on the Waterfront â a cozy seafood spot right on the waterfront, offering fresh catches, fried baskets, and cold drinks. The casual atmosphere and beautiful views make it a perfect post-cruise stop.
Voyager Deep Sea Fishing Charters
Photo Credit: Steve G
- Book a Tour: supervoyagerdeepseafishing.com/dolphin-adventure-cruise
- Tour Time: 2 ½
- Ages: All Ages
Embark on a Dolphin Adventure Cruise in North Myrtle Beach departing from the Marina at Dock Holidays. This 2½ hour sunset cruise takes you through the Inland Waterways of the Carolinas out to the Atlantic Ocean.
Watch the shrimp boat fleet at work, which attracts dolphins during feeding time. Weather permitting, the crew will haul aboard a net, bringing up an array of sea creatures like shrimp, crabs, fish, sea urchins, seahorses, sand dollars, seashells, stingrays, and baby sharks.
The vessel is equipped with two decks, two restrooms, and a snack bar. Youâre also welcome to bring a small cooler with food and drinks.
Voyager Deep Sea Fishing Charters also offers fishing charters. And if youâre visiting during the Fourth of July, a Fireworks Cruise allows you to watch the incredible display from the Atlantic Ocean.
Are you in the mood for a lively dining spot? Boardwalk Billy's is known for its seafood, sushi, Southern fare, and live music. It offers indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the marina, perfect for families and groups.
Island Excursion Dolphin Watch & Sunset Cruises
Photo Credit: Jason & Aleisha Stout
- Book a Tour: southernshorescruises.com
- Tour Time: 2 to 4 hours, depending on the cruise
- Ages: All Ages
Enjoy North Myrtle Beachâs only catamaran dolphin cruise with Island Excursion Dolphin Watch & Sunset Cruises. These cruises offer a relaxing and scenic adventure, perfect for families and individuals looking to experience the beauty of Myrtle Beach's coastal waters.
Before you head out to see the majestic bottlenose dolphin, look for leatherback sea turtles, black tip sharks, jellyfish, and various species of birds like pelicans, osprey, and seagulls.
With varying tour times, you can choose a cruise that fits your schedule, ensuring a memorable dolphin-watching experience.
If youâre looking for more speed, their newest boat, the Thrill Seeker, will take you on a thrilling 45-minute sightseeing cruise on the Intracoastal Waterway in North Myrtle Beach.
Stop at Captain Archie's for fresh seafood, burgers, and Southern favorites. The outdoor seating area provides excellent views of the Intracoastal Waterway, perfect for watching boats go by.
Sea Racer
Photo Credit: Annette Grissinger
Book a Tour: searacermyrtlebeach.com/dolphin-cruise
Tour Time: 1 ½ hours
Ages: All Ages
Climb aboard for a journey along the Intracoastal Waterway and Little River inlet in search of bottlenose dolphins. This isnât just any boat tour. Sea Racerâs dolphin tour offers a thrilling yet comfortable smooth boat ride even on choppy seas. Even though the Sea Racer handles waves smoothly, you might still get a little wet. They also have a place onshore to store valuables if you donât want to risk a splash here and there.
This narrated tour offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. If you can get the captain to make a big wake, you might spot dolphins playing and jumping in the waves. This adventure promises fun and excitement for all ages!
After your thrilling adventure, dine at the Grand Strandâs historical Hurricane Juel's waterfront seafood restaurant. This restaurant has been serving fresh seafood and Southern favorites to patrons since 1945.
Blue Wave Adventures Dolphin Watch Tour
Photo Credit: None Required
- Book a Tour: crazysistermarina.com/excursions/dolphin-watch-tour
- Tour Time: 1 ½ hours
- Ages: Ages 3+
Discover the wonders of the coast with Blue Wave Adventures Dolphin Watch Tour. In addition to spotting dolphins, youâll see other amazing sea creatures like sea turtles, fish, stingrays, sharks, eagles, osprey, and herons.
This tour focuses on the ecology, wildlife, and natural beauty of the area. With over twenty years of experience in finding dolphins and studying marine mammals, the captain and crew ensure an informative and enjoyable experience for all ages.
Head back to Beach Cove Resort to grab a post-cruise drink at the Tipsy Turtle Beach Bar. This beachfront bar has a relaxed, tropical vibe and serves a variety of co*cktails, beers, and non-alcoholic beverages. An arcade and friendly service add to the experience, making it a favorite hangout for Beach Cove Resort guests.
Guided Jet Ski Dolphin Tour
Photo Credit: Robin Batista
- Book a Tour: crazysistermarina.com/watersports/jet-ski-dolphin
- Tour Time: 1 ½ hours
- Ages: Ages 18+
Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping adventure with the Guided Jet Ski Dolphin Tour! This 1 ½ hour thrill ride is the perfect way to experience the stunning waters of North Myrtle Beach while zipping around on a high-speed jet ski.
Feel the wind in your hair and the spray of the ocean as you race through the waves, guided by expert tour guides who know all the best spots to find playful dolphins. Imagine the excitement of seeing these amazing creatures up close, leaping and swimming right alongside you!
This tour isn't just about the rideâit's about creating unforgettable memories and getting an up-close look at the vibrant marine life. Whether you're a thrill seeker or just looking for a unique way to enjoy the ocean, this jet ski dolphin tour will surely be the highlight of your trip!
Stay and Explore North Myrtle Beach
After an exhilarating day on the water, relax and recharge at Beach Cove Resort. The beautiful Beach Cove Resort puts you right in the center of the action. With comfortable accommodations, fantastic amenities, and breathtaking oceanfront views, it's the ideal place to end your day.
After a day of adventure, relax and unwind at the luxurious Beach Cove Resort. With its stunning oceanfront views, comfortable accommodations, and top-notch amenities, Beach Cove Resort is the perfect place to stay during your North Myrtle Beach area getaway.
