Catamaran Dolphin Cruise in Myrtle Beach with Barrier Island Stop

The Catamaran Dolphin Cruise in Myrtle Beach offers a lively and family-friendly experience for wildlife lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. For $39.96 per person, this approximately 2-hour tour features a relaxed cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, with opportunities to spot dolphins, leatherback sea turtles, and a variety of bird species. The tour also includes a stop at Bird Island and Waites Island, two unspoiled barrier islands, making it a well-rounded adventure that combines wildlife viewing with beach exploration.

This tour is ideal for those interested in wildlife in its natural habitat and seeking an accessible, enjoyable outing on the water. Since snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard, it’s suitable for a casual day out. With a high rating of 5.0 based on 13 reviews and most travelers recommending it, this cruise stands out as a reliable choice for families and wildlife fans. A key consideration: the boat’s capacity is limited to 34 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience even when it’s nearly full.

Key Points

• Affordable price at just under $40 per person for a 2-hour cruise.
• Includes barrier island stops at Bird Island and Waites Island—two of the last undeveloped barrier islands in South Carolina.
• Wildlife sightings are a highlight, with frequent dolphin appearances, sea turtles, and local birdlife.
• Scenic route along the Intracoastal Waterway, passing luxury homes, the historic Little River fishing village, and the Governors Lighthouse.
• Family-friendly experience with opportunities to swim, gather seashells, and build sandcastles.
• Snacks and drinks available onboard for purchase, adding convenience to the trip.
• Limited group size up to 34 passengers, maintaining an intimate and comfortable atmosphere.
• Free cancellation available if booked at least 24 hours in advance.

Myrtle Beach’s Scenic Intracoastal Waterway and Coastal Views

The tour begins with a leisurely 30-minute cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, revealing views of luxury homes and the historic Little River fishing village. As the boat passes these picturesque locations, guides provide background information about the area, making the scenery both beautiful and informative. The route also takes travelers past Vereen Memorial Gardens and Coquina Harbor, homes to some of the region’s most expensive boats and a serene glimpse into local maritime life.

Passengers find this section relaxing, with plenty of chances to take photos of the boats, shoreline, and distant lighthouses, such as the Governors Lighthouse. The quiet, scenic waterway creates a peaceful setting before reaching the barrier islands.

Exploring Bird Island’s Untouched Beaches

The first stop is at Bird Island, where visitors can hop off for around 15 minutes. This undeveloped nature preserve offers beach exploration, allowing for swimming, shell gathering, or simply walking along the sands. The beach at Bird Island remains free of development, offering a true natural escape. The limited time encourages a quick but memorable visit, with opportunities to feel the sand between your toes and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Since the island is part of a conservation area, there are no amenities or facilities, so travelers should prepare accordingly. The free admission makes it an accessible highlight of the tour.

Barrier Island: Waites Island’s Last Untouched Shoreline

After returning from sea, the boat makes a second stop at Waites Island, another 15-minute visit. Known as one of the last undeveloped barrier islands in South Carolina, Waites Island provides a pristine environment for beachcombing, swimming, or relaxing in nature. Being uninhabited and untouched, it offers a raw, natural experience.

Travelers enjoy walking on the beach and collecting seashells, with the option to swim or just soak up the scenery. The island’s preservation status means there are no commercial facilities, but the quiet and natural beauty are well worth the brief stop.

Wildlife Spotting: Dolphins, Turtles, and Birds

A major highlight of this tour is the chance to see wild bottlenose dolphins in action. Multiple reviews mention dolphins following shrimp boats or swimming close to the boat, often seen in pods. The guides are skilled at positioning the boat for the best viewing opportunities, and calling over other boats to show caught sharks adds to the excitement.

Aside from dolphins, leatherback sea turtles and various bird species are commonly spotted. The vast natural habitats along the waterway make it a rewarding experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

The Crew: Friendly Guides and Knowledgeable Narration

The tour is led by a captain and crew who are described as polite, knowledgeable, and engaging. Guides like Claire and Forest are praised for providing background info about the sights and making the trip entertaining. Their sense of humor and history insights enhance the experience, making the cruise both fun and educational.

The crew’s hospitality extends to snacks and drinks available for purchase during the cruise, which adds to the relaxed atmosphere. The boat’s cleanliness and ease of access are frequently noted positives.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Group Size

This tour departs from Southern Shores Island and Dolphin Cruises, located at 2201 Little River Neck Rd, North Myrtle Beach. The ship accommodates a maximum of 34 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and avoids overcrowding, even when booked near capacity.

Booking is flexible with free cancellation if canceled more than 24 hours in advance. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with good weather being a key requirement for the experience.

Comfort and Safety on the Boat

The service provides life jackets and safety equipment, ensuring peace of mind during the cruise. While the boat is described as clean and accessible, travelers should be prepared for some splashing or getting wet, especially on the outer sides of the boat, which are popular spots for dolphin viewing.

Shoes are removed before reaching the barrier islands, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The tour is generally suitable for all ages and physical abilities, provided weather conditions are favorable.

Food and Drinks: What’s Available

Guests can purchase snacks and beverages onboard, including alcoholic drinks, soda, and bottled water. The drinks are noted to be inexpensive, making the trip convenient for those wishing to relax with a cold drink while enjoying the scenery.

It’s worth noting that none are included in the ticket price, so travelers should plan accordingly if they want refreshments during the cruise.

Versatility and Additional Experiences

While primarily a wildlife and scenic tour, the cruise also offers photo opportunities of the coastline, wildlife, and barrier islands. The short stops at Bird Island and Waites Island are perfect for quick explorations, beachcombing, or enjoying the unspoiled natural environment.

The tour’s duration and stops are designed to balance relaxation with wildlife viewing, making it a well-rounded outing. For those interested in combining this experience with other activities, similar tours include sunset cruises, river explorations, and wildlife river tours, which can be found nearby.

Final Thoughts: A Compelling Coastal Adventure

The Myrtle Beach Catamaran Dolphin Cruise delivers a cost-effective, scenic, and wildlife-rich experience. Its 2-hour duration is ideal for families and casual travelers seeking a taste of coastal nature without long commitments. The barrier island stops add a unique element, offering a chance to walk on untouched beaches and gather seashells.

While the boat can feel crowded on busy days, the friendly crew and comfortable group size help keep the experience enjoyable. The high safety standards, combined with the opportunity to see dolphins, turtles, and seabirds in their natural habitat, make this tour a solid choice for anyone visiting Myrtle Beach.

If you’re looking for a relaxing, informative water adventure that combines scenic views, wildlife sightings, and beach exploration, this cruise offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the cruise?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, including stops at Bird Island and Waites Island.

What is included in the price?
The ticket price covers the boat ride, safety equipment, and admission to barrier islands. Snacks and drinks are available for purchase onboard.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for most ages, especially since the group size is limited for comfort.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking on the islands, sunscreen, and perhaps a camera for wildlife and scenery photos. Shoes are removed before reaching the islands, so prepare accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel more than 24 hours before the tour start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is it accessible for most travelers?
The boat is described as easily accessible and safe, suitable for most travelers given good weather conditions.