Murrells Inlet: Saltwater Marsh Eco Tour w/ Marine Biologist

Discover Murrells Inlet’s Saltwater Marsh on a Certified Marine Biologist-Led Eco Tour

This $32, two-hour eco tour in Murrells Inlet, South Carolina, offers a deep look into the region’s saltwater marshes with an expert guide. Led by a certified Marine Biologist, the tour combines nature exploration, live sea life demonstrations, and beachcombing on an unspoiled shore. We like how this tour balances educational content with hands-on experiences, making it especially appealing for families, nature lovers, and curious travelers.

While the tour duration is just two hours, the opportunity to observe marine creatures, participate in shelling, and learn about local wildlife creates a rich, engaging outing. An added benefit is the live touch tank onboard, which brings the underwater world directly to participants. The price of $32 per person makes this a very accessible activity, particularly for those seeking a meaningful, educational adventure without a hefty price tag.

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Key Points

• Led by a certified Marine Biologist with extensive knowledge of local marine life
• Two-hour outdoor boat tour departing from Murrells Inlet
• Hands-on experiences include live dredging, touch tanks, and shelling on an untouched beach
• Wildlife spotting encompasses birdwatching and observing various sea creatures
• Includes a beach walk to find shells and treasures, with a chance to explore dunes and shoreline
• Comfortable vessel with shade, a bathroom, and light commentary suited for all ages

Murrells Inlet’s Saltwater Marsh: An Educational and Scenic Boat Ride

The tour begins at the Ship’s Store, where travelers check in 30 minutes prior. The Explorer, a United States Coast Guard Certified vessel, sets out on a two-hour journey through the calm waters of Murrells Inlet. The boat’s 54-foot length provides ample space, with shaded seating and a toilet onboard for comfort.

Throughout the cruise, a live Marine Biologist guides guests with engaging commentary. The experience emphasizes both visual enjoyment and learning opportunities, including live demonstrations of local crabs and sampling dredge pulls from the creek bed, revealing the species that inhabit this thriving estuarine environment.

Exploring the Saltwater Marsh Ecosystem

Murrells Inlet’s saltwater marsh is the central feature of this tour, showcasing a vital habitat for diverse marine and bird life. The tranquil waters provide a peaceful setting for viewing wildlife from the boat. The marine biologist explains the flora and fauna of the estuary, helping travelers understand the ecosystem’s importance.

Passengers can expect the live touch tanks to feature sea creatures pulled directly from inlet waters. These tanks serve as a hands-on way to observe species like crabs, fish, and mollusks, making the experience both interactive and educational.

Live Dredge Pulls and Marine Life Demonstrations

A highlight of this tour is the live dredge pull, where the marine biologist carefully extracts samples from the bottom of the creek, pulling species directly into the onboard touch tank. This interactive demonstration offers a rare glimpse into the bottom-dwelling creatures that thrive in the inlet.

Guests also learn about blue crabs, a common and fascinating species in the area, through informative commentary. Visual aids and hands-on activities help clarify how these creatures live and behave, making complex ideas accessible to all ages.

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Beachcombing at an Untouched Shoreline

One of the tour’s standout features is the disembarkation onto a local beach. The boat is positioned for a walkabout in the dune area, where participants search for shells, shells, and other treasures. The beach remains relatively untouched, providing a pristine environment where shells and natural debris can be collected.

This beach walk allows for quiet observation of the shoreline’s flora and fauna, including potential bird sightings. The shelling activity is described as very rewarding, with beautiful shells to be found, giving participants a tangible souvenir of their time in Murrells Inlet.

Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting Opportunities

Alongside shelling, the tour emphasizes birdwatching. During the cruise and walk, local bird species are visible, with the guide pointing out egrets, herons, and other marsh birds. This added layer of wildlife appreciation enhances the educational value and appeals to nature enthusiasts.

The quiet waters and natural setting create an ideal environment for spotting wildlife at close range, making this tour both serene and lively with activity.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Comfort

Participants should arrive 30 minutes early at the Ship’s Store for check-in and to receive their wristband. The tour departs approximately 12 miles south of Myrtle Beach International Airport and 5 miles north of Brookgreen Gardens, making it easily accessible for visitors staying in the area.

The vessel features ample shade for comfort during the outdoor boat ride, and light commentary is provided in English, making it suitable for diverse audiences. The full safety and inspection, as a Coast Guard-certified boat, ensures a secure and enjoyable experience.

Weather Considerations and Rescheduling Policy

The tour sails through light rain or drizzle, so travelers should dress appropriately for outdoor conditions. In case of bad weather, the USCG Licensed Captain and management team may reschedule or cancel for safety reasons. If a reschedule isn’t possible, full refunds are provided, giving peace of mind for those concerned about weather.

Reflection on Reviews and Guide Quality

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with many mentioning the biologist’s engaging and clear explanations. The personality and expertise of the crew shine through, creating a friendly and informative atmosphere.

Guests appreciate the value for money, with many highlighting the hands-on experiences and beautiful scenery. The comfortable vessel and the well-organized tour contribute to a smooth and enjoyable outing suitable for families, nature lovers, and anyone curious about the local marine environment.

This tour offers an affordable, educational, and relaxing way to explore Murrells Inlet’s saltwater marshes. The hands-on demonstrations, wildlife viewing, and beachcombing create a balanced experience that appeals to a wide range of visitors.

While the duration is only two hours, the rich content and scenic setting leave a lasting impression. It’s perfect for families, birdwatchers, and anyone eager to learn about the local ecosystem in a comfortable and friendly environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s hands-on activities, wildlife demonstrations, and beachcombing make it engaging for children and adults alike.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for outdoor weather, as the boat ride is outdoors and may be affected by light rain or drizzle.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive 30 minutes prior to departure for check-in, to ensure a smooth boarding process.

Is the vessel accessible?
Yes, the Explorer is a coast guard-certified vessel with shade and a bathroom onboard for comfort.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a saltwater marsh eco cruise, live dredge pulls, sea life touch tanks, beachcombing, and birdwatching.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, full refunds are available if the tour is rescheduled or canceled due to weather, with notice given up to 2 days in advance.

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