Port Royal Sound: Private Boat Charter with Dolphin Watching

Private Boat Tour in Beaufort: Dolphin Watching, Sunset Views, and Photography

This private boat charter in Beaufort, South Carolina, offers an engaging way to explore the Port Royal Sound and Beaufort River. Priced at $320 per person for a 2-hour experience, the tour is ideal for those seeking a personalized aquatic adventure. Whether you want to watch dolphins, capture stunning sunset photos, or celebrate a special occasion, this tour provides tailored options led by a US Coast Guard licensed master captain.

The tour departs from the public dock at Sands Beach, where a blue-gray Key West center console awaits. The vessel, equipped with a white T-top, comfortably accommodates private groups, ensuring an intimate experience. This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature and photography, though it is not recommended for those prone to seasickness. With flexible booking options and a full refund for cancellations made 24 hours in advance, it offers both convenience and peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience with a licensed captain on a Key West vessel
• Dolphin watching and sunset tours within Port Royal Sound and the Beaufort River
• 2-hour excursions available in morning or afternoon
• Bring your camera, snacks, drinks, and sunscreen for optimal enjoyment
• Customizable tours include photography, dolphin watching, sunset views, or special celebrations
• Includes water and ice, with safety gear and First Aid/CPR certified staff

Departing from Sands Beach at Beaufort’s Public Dock

This tour starts at the public dock at Sands Beach, a convenient and scenic departure point for exploring the waters of Beaufort County. Captain Chuck, the guide, contacts participants via email or text prior to departure, ensuring smooth scheduling. The vessel is a center console with a blue-gray hull and a white T-top, designed for stability and visibility.

The private group setting means only your party is aboard, allowing for a relaxed and tailored experience. The departure typically occurs 2 hours before sunset, aligning perfectly with the most breathtaking moments on the water. This setup makes it an excellent choice for intimate celebrations or a peaceful escape into nature.

Exploring the Vibrant Low Country Salt Marsh Ecosystem

Cruising through the Salt Marsh, the tour showcases one of the area’s most iconic landscapes. The environment teems with bird and marine life, including the possibility of spotting Roseate Spoonbills wading in shallow creeks or Dolphins teaching their young to strand feed. The salt marsh’s vibrant greens and Spanish moss draping grand oaks create a picturesque backdrop.

This ecosystem is healthy and thriving, offering a genuine glimpse into the Low Country’s natural beauty. As the boat moves slowly through the water, the soundscape of bird calls and water lapping creates a serene atmosphere. It is an ideal environment for photographers to snap wildlife shots or simply relax amid nature’s quiet harmony.

Searching for Bottlenose Dolphins in Port Royal Sound

A major highlight of this tour is the chance to see Bottlenose Dolphins in their natural habitat. The cruise along the Beaufort River and Port Royal Sound is specifically designed to maximize dolphin sightings. The local population of dolphins often appears near the boat, providing opportunities for close-up views.

Watching these intelligent marine mammals in action, whether strand feeding or simply swimming alongside the boat, is a memorable experience. The dolphin tours are a key feature, with the captain utilizing his expertise to help guests spot and enjoy the playful creatures in the wild.

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Capturing the Lowcountry Sunset on the Water

One of the most enchanting moments of the experience occurs as the sun begins to set. The colors shift across the salt marsh, turning the sky into a natural watercolor painting. The red and gold ripples on the water, combined with dancing shadows cast by grand oaks and Spanish moss, create an idyllic scene.

This sunset tour is perfect for those wanting to capture stunning photographs or simply enjoy a tranquil moment with loved ones. Guests are encouraged to bring their preferred beverages and hors d’oeuvres to enhance the celebration. The tour concludes as the sun dips below the horizon, leaving behind an indelible memory of the peaceful Lowcountry evening.

Photography Tours for Nature and Wildlife Enthusiasts

For those with an eye for nature photography, this tour offers exceptional opportunities. The salt marsh teems with bird species, crustaceans, and marine life, providing a dynamic subject set. Photography enthusiasts might aim to capture images of wading birds, such as Roseate Spoonbills, or film pods of dolphins exhibiting unique behaviors like strand feeding.

The quiet waters and natural light during the sunset hours make for perfect shooting conditions. Because each trip is customizable, photographers can focus on their preferred subjects or simply enjoy the scenic vistas that unfold around every bend.

Celebrating Special Occasions on the Water

This private boat provides a memorable setting to celebrate anniversaries, birthdays, or engagements. The custom arrangements are designed to make your day truly special. You can bring your own beverages and snacks, creating a personalized celebration on the water.

The intimate environment and personalized service from Captain Chuck and his crew ensure that your event is smooth and memorable. Whether it’s a romantic sunset, a family gathering, or a small party, this tour adapts to your celebration needs.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour duration is 2 hours, typically scheduled in the morning or afternoon, making it flexible for most itineraries. The full refund policy allows cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind when planning. You can reserve now and pay later, maintaining flexibility in your travel plans.

Guests should bring a hat, towel, camera, snacks, drinks, and sunscreen, especially biodegradable sunscreen to protect the environment. High heels, smoking, pets (except assistance dogs), intoxication, red wine, sprays, aerosols, unaccompanied minors, boots, touching marine life, fireworks, and explosive substances are all prohibited for safety and preservation reasons.

The tour is not suitable for people prone to seasickness, so consideration should be given to individual comfort levels before booking.

The Experience Provider: Royal Marsh Excursions

This tour is operated by Royal Marsh Excursions, a reputable provider with experienced guides. Captain Chuck, who leads the tours, is First Aid/CPR certified, emphasizing safety and professionalism. The Key West vessel used is well-maintained, ensuring both safety and comfort throughout the trip.

Beaufort’s Private Water Adventure: A Memorable Lowcountry Escape

This private boat tour offers a personalized and flexible way to explore the scenic waters of Beaufort County. With options for dolphin watching, sunset viewing, and photography, it appeals to a broad range of interests. The two-hour experience balances a thorough exploration with a relaxed pace, perfect for capturing beautiful moments.

While the price of $320 per person might be higher than group tours, the exclusive nature and custom tailored adventures justify the investment. It is especially suited for those wanting a peaceful, wildlife-focused outing that combines nature, photography, and special celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes water, ice, a US Coast Guard licensed captain, and the use of the Key West vessel. It also offers custom options such as dolphin tours, sunset tours, and photography.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts 2 hours, starting 2 hours before sunset or at available times in the morning or afternoon.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour departs from the public dock at Sands Beach in Beaufort, South Carolina.

Can I bring my own drinks and snacks?
Yes, guests are encouraged to bring beverages and hors doeuvres to enhance their celebration or relaxation.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children unaccompanied minors are not allowed, but families with children should verify safety considerations as this tour is not recommended for those prone to seasickness.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations made 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund.

Are pets allowed onboard?
Only assistance dogs are permitted; other pets are not allowed.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring a hat, towel, camera, snacks, drinks, and sunscreen, preferably biodegradable to protect the environment.

What makes this tour different from others?
The private setting, customization options, and expert guide make this an ideal choice for personalized wildlife viewing, photography, and celebration experiences in Beaufort.

Is seasickness a concern?
The tour is not suitable for people prone to seasickness, so plan accordingly for comfort during the ride.

The Sum Up: Beaufort’s Best Private Boat Experience

This Port Royal Sound private boat tour combines wildlife viewing, breathtaking sunsets, and personalized celebrations into a memorable two-hour adventure. The expert guide, luxury vessel, and flexible options make it a standout choice for nature lovers and special occasion organizers alike. While the price point reflects its private, tailored nature, the immersive environment and beautiful scenery justify the expense for those seeking a peaceful and exclusive Lowcountry experience.

Anyone interested in dolphin watching, photography, or celebrations in a tranquil setting will find this tour offers both great value and authentic beauty in Beaufort, South Carolina.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby