FAQ's

Island Explorer spends nearly all of time in the calm waters of Broad Creek and the Calibogue Sound. Dolphins are most often found in these areas. We seldom go out into the Atlantic Ocean on our regular trips.

Our boats are dry and comfortable, however, anytime you are out in a small boat there is a chance of spray or wakes from passing boats. Getting wet on Island Explorer is rare. That being said, you should know that our three-hour trip with beach combing on Vanishing Island does require you to step down a ladder from the boat into one or two feet of water in order to wade onto the island.

Nothing is guaranteed in life except death and taxes. We see dolphins on 99% of our trips. Sometimes they are very close to boat; sometimes a little further away. Our customers tell us that our trips are one of the most memorable parts of their visit to Hilton Head Island.

Every trip is different. Dolphins will be viewed up close sometimes, and other times they will be at a short distance. We follow the “Dolphin Smart” program when viewing dolphins. It is illegal to touch or feed wild dolphins.

Yes! This is a great trip for kids. They love the excitement of the fast power boat. We can usually get much closer to the dolphins than the large tour boats and slow rides. We have USCG-Approved Life Jackets for everyone, and we have comfortable ski vests for kids 30 pounds and up that need to wear a life jacket during the trip. Older kids are not required to wear life jackets but vests are available when parents prefer that their older kids wear one.

Yes. It’s best to bring infants in their own car seat. We can place the seat securely in the boat. While we have special life jackets for kids 30 pounds and up, it would be best for you to purchase your own infant life jacket before arriving.

Weather is very changeable around Hilton Head Island. Your Captain is very experienced and understands local weather. Some of our Captains have RADAR on their cell phones. Besides taking you on a beautiful trip, our FIRST priority is your safety and comfort. We won’t let a few drops of rain stop a great trip, but we’ll never take you out in a thunderstorm. During the entire course of the trip, we are never more than 10 minutes from a marina or other safe haven. Don’t make your decisions based on what you hear on The Weather Channel. Call Capt. Jim to get the real scoop on the weather.

Our boats are very stable and do not tip. However, many of our customers tip the Captain. Although tipping is never required, most folks understand that in resorts such as Hilton Head Island many people making their living through the service industry where tipping is customary. Tipping the captain shows your appreciation for his good job, and he will certainly appreciate it.