Sunset Dolphin Cruise to Morris Island Lighthouse — Charleston Lowcountry Boat Tour
Slide out of Charleston toward the salt marsh as the sun lowers and dolphins begin their evening patrol. This 90-minute sunset cruise to Morris Island Lighthouse pairs dependable wildlife sightings with practical comfort—a compact, social way to experience the Lowcountry.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive early for parking
Crosby’s Seafood Market has free parking and restrooms; plan an extra 15–20 minutes in summer weekends for traffic from downtown Charleston.
Bring layered clothing
Evenings on the water cool quickly—pack a light windbreaker or fleece to stay comfortable during the return.
Sun protection and hydration
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle help on sunny afternoons and glare-heavy sunsets.
BYOB and cooler space
Spacious coolers with ice and water are provided; bring snacks and beverages but secure glass items and clean up after your trip.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Quiet oyster beds visible from the channels at low tide—ask the captain to pause for close-up views
- •The view toward the west-facing sand flats offers surprisingly dramatic skies in the last half hour of the cruise
Wildlife
- •Atlantic bottlenose dolphin
- •Brown pelican and various shorebirds (egrets, herons)
Conservation Note
The Lowcountry’s marshes are sensitive to trampling and runoff; operators limit shore landings and emphasize leave-no-trace practices to protect habitat.
Morris Island Lighthouse has guided vessels since the 19th century and marks shifting coastal geomorphology shaped by storms and sediment movement.
Photographer's Notes
- • Off the starboard side approaching Morris Island Lighthouse
- • Along the interior marsh channels where dolphins often surface
What to Bring
Non-slip deck shoesEssential
Provide traction on wet surfaces and stable footing when boarding or moving around the boat.
Light windbreakerEssential
Blocks the evening breeze on open water and layers without adding bulk.
Sunglasses with strap
Reduces glare off water and prevents losing eyewear when dolphins surface.
Waterproof phone case or camera bag
Protects electronics from spray and allows quick access for photos of wildlife
Common Questions
Where do we meet for the cruise?
Meet at Crosby’s Seafood Market—there is free parking, restrooms, and a market for snacks; it’s about 20 minutes from downtown Charleston by car.
Are children and pets allowed?
Yes; the tour is family-friendly and pet-friendly. Small children should be supervised and pets kept on a leash or in a secured carrier.
How likely am I to see dolphins?
Dolphin sightings occur on roughly 99% of tours; Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are common in these channels and often surface near the boat.
Can I bring food and alcohol?
Yes—BYOB is allowed and coolers with ice and bottled water are provided. Please follow the captain’s guidance and local alcohol regulations.
Is the cruise suitable for those with mobility issues?
The tour is listed as easy and stroller-friendly, but boarding requires stepping onto the boat; contact the operator for specific accessibility needs.
What happens in bad weather?
Trips can be canceled for bad weather; the operator will notify you and offers refunds if canceled at least 24 hours before departure per their policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
90 minutes
Location
Folly Beach, South Carolina
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; you should be able to step onboard and stand or sit for the duration.
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