Private Tour
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Guaranteed dolphins! This is your private boat taking you on an exclusive tour to see dolphins in the wild! We go to places the big boats can't or won't. It'll be just your group (up to 6 passengers) cruising the waters, watching dolphins eating, playing, and socializing. As a Lowcountry Master Naturalist, your Captain will provide an in-depth narration of the ecology around you detailing what makes Hilton Head so unique.
You’ll get all the time you need to see these beautiful creatures as they spend their days cruising the Calibogue Sound. See Hilton Head’s storied landmark, the Harbourtown Lighthouse from the water. Cross over to the other side of the Sound and see Daufuskie Island.
You'll have a chance to see other creatures that call the Lowcountry home; mobula rays jumping, sharks and manatees making cameos, sea turtles coming up for a breath of air. Hundreds of species of birds that make their way through their migratory periods.
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum
We may stop here with an opportunity for photographs of the lighthouse
Daufuskie Island
The search for dolphins may take us into the Cooper River and along Daufuskie Island.
Private Vessel for your Family Tour
Licensed Captain and Low Country Master Naturalist, providing an in-depth narrative for your group
All Fees and Taxes
Gratuity
530 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
cynthiahR8306AB,Mar 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Loved the excursion and the Captain!

Katie B,Mar 28, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain Mark was the perfect director for a day on the water. He was incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to answer all of our questions. He gave such a thoughtful explanation of the area. We learned so much and felt so safe the entire time. He took us to multiple spots to allow my family an incredible experience. Highly recommend him!!
brianwM1948TH,Mar 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Excellent experience! Highly recommend!
93stacyw,Mar 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Even though the weather was not ideal we had an amazing time on the water and saw so many dolphins. We would recommend this to everyone and will do it again if we make it back to the area.
simonepF4976GD,Mar 22, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Such a wonderful trip! Captain Mark was very informative. Our whole family enjoyed this! We can’t wait to come back and go again!
Michael N,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Viator
We had an incredible time on the 90-Minute Private Dolphin Tour in Hilton Head Island. From the moment we got out on the water, it felt like a special experience. The captain was knowledgeable, friendly, and knew exactly where to go.







206wec,Mar 16, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain Mark was GREAT! WE SAW DOLPHINS!! Before our cruise, he called us to recommend changing our cruise day due to incoming weather. When we were out on the water he explained what we were seeing and even some history of the area. We would definitely recommend Cross Island Cruises. Thank you Captain Mark for making it a cruise to remember.
Matthew B,Mar 9, 2026
- Review from Viator
Captain Mark was awesome. Easy to communicate with and an overall great guide. Loved the narrative and discussion. He expertly guided us to different neighborhoods and also found plenty of dolphins. Couldn’t be happier with the choice. Definitely a repeat and way beats a standard tour.
M8332CJjasonn,Mar 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Captain Mark was fantastic! We saw dolphins multiple times during the trip, which was an unforgettable experience. He also shared some really interesting history about the area, which made the tour even better. Cruising around Hilton Head Island was beautiful, and the whole trip was a great time from start to finish. Highly recommend Captain Mark if you want a fun, memorable day on the water!

Margaret K,Mar 1, 2026
- Review from Viator
Capt Mark knows and loves this area! He gave interesting, in depth answers to all sorts of questions about the history, the creatures, geography, the ecosystems, the development of life on Hilton Head! All four of us found Mark and the trip a delight!
Operated by Cross Island Cruises