A Relaxed, Family-Friendly Water Adventure: The 1 Hour Private Tubing Trip on Hilton Head Island
If you’re looking for a fun, laid-back way to enjoy Hilton Head Island’s waters, a 1-hour private tubing trip might be just what you need. This experience offers a chance to kick back and have some water-based fun, whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss adventure, but one packed with potential memorable moments.
What immediately draws us to this tour are the personalized touch—it’s private, for your group only—and the chance to see some dolphins, which reviews consistently highlight as a highlight. Plus, with a knowledgeable captain steering the boat, you can relax knowing you’re in good hands. On the flip side, this activity’s simplicity means it’s not an adrenaline rush or a high-intensity adventure, so if you’re craving that, you may want to look elsewhere. That said, it’s perfect for those who want a gentle, scenic experience on the water, especially families or small groups wanting to share a fun outing.
This tubing trip appeals most to travelers seeking a relaxed, intimate experience with the chance for some wildlife sightings and beautiful water views. It’s not overly complicated, and the fact that it’s private means no crowds or noisy groups—just your crew and the water.
Key Points

- Private and personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience.
- No experience needed: Perfect for first-timers and kids, making this accessible to all.
- Wildlife sightings: Dolphins are often seen, with reviews mentioning swimming with them.
- Knowledgeable captains: Guides are praised for their local insights and care.
- Easygoing pace: Designed for relaxation, not high thrills.
- Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What to Expect on Your Hilton Head Tubing Adventure

This tour is straightforward but offers enough to keep it engaging. The one-hour private trip kicks off at a meeting point on Jenkins Road, where your captain will meet you and prepare the custom boat. The boat itself can hold up to 12 passengers, but it’s booked privately for your group, which means no mingling with strangers unless you want to.
The boat is modern and comfortable, designed specifically for tubing. Your captain will drive, choosing the best spots to maximize fun and wildlife viewing. The tubing itself is simple—no need for prior experience—and the captain will guide you through how hard or easy you want to go, so it’s as mellow or lively as you prefer.
One of the standout features of this trip is the chance to see dolphins, which several reviews mention. Kerry_P shared that they saw dolphins swimming alongside the boat, even swimming with the tubing, which is a pretty magical moment that adds a layer of excitement. The captain’s knowledge of the local waters enhances the experience, helping you find the best spots with less boat traffic, like the area beyond the bridge and into the river mouth.
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The Experience Breakdown
Meeting point and start: Located conveniently at 43 Jenkins Rd, the activity begins with your group gathering and boarding the custom boat. The process is smooth, and the private nature of the trip means you won’t feel rushed or crowded.
On the water: With the boat ready, your captain takes you into areas with less boat traffic, providing a safe, relaxed environment. You’ll get to float behind the boat, holding onto the tow rope, with the captain controlling the speed to match your comfort level.
Wildlife encounters: Multiple reviews mention dolphin sightings, with at least one reviewer noting a dolphin swimming right alongside them while tubing. It’s a highlight that makes this trip stand out from more generic water activities.
Family-friendly vibe: The trip is perfect for all ages, especially since no experience is required. Kids seem to love the adventure, even if they get a little saltwater in their faces, as Kristin W pointed out. It’s a great way for families to spend quality time together without any complicated logistics.
Duration and pace: Every moment is about relaxed enjoyment, and the hour flies by because you’re constantly engaged with the water and wildlife. The boat ride itself is quick to start, meaning you’ll be in the water enjoying yourself sooner rather than later.
The Value of This Private Tubing Experience
At $271.62 for a group up to 12, this trip might seem steep at first glance. However, when you break down the value, it’s quite reasonable—you’re paying for a private captain, a custom boat, and a flexible experience tailored to your group’s pace and preferences.
This isn’t a high-adrenaline tour or an all-day affair, but for a quick escape on the water, it offers a lot of bang for your buck. Plus, knowing that you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund if plans change adds peace of mind, making it easier to plan your day confidently.
Why it’s worth considering
- Wildlife sightings: Dolphins swimming alongside your tubing are a memorable bonus.
- Uncrowded and private: Ideal for those who prefer an intimate experience over large tours.
- Easy for all ages: No experience required, making it accessible for families or groups with children.
- Relaxed pace: Perfect if you want to enjoy the water without high-speed thrills or intense activity.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
If you enjoy gentle water activities, love the idea of spotting dolphins, or are traveling with family members wanting a relaxed outing, this tubing trip hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those new to water sports or anyone seeking a peaceful connection with nature without the hassle of complicated logistics.
Travelers looking for a high-energy, adrenaline-packed experience will likely find this too mellow. Conversely, those craving wildlife encounters and a private, customizable environment will find plenty to love here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a family-friendly activity?
Yes, since no experience is needed and most travelers can participate, this trip is suitable for families. Kids generally enjoy tubing and the chance to see dolphins.
How much does the trip cost?
The private tubing trip costs $271.62 per group, which includes the boat and captain. It’s a good value considering the private experience and personalized service.
What is the meeting point?
The activity begins at 43 Jenkins Rd, Hilton Head Island. The trip ends back at this same location.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the trip. Last-minute cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.
How long does the trip last?
The activity lasts approximately 1 hour. The boat ride and tubing are designed to be a relaxed, fun experience within that timeframe.
Are there weather restrictions?
Yes, the experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
1 Hour Private Tubing Trip
“We had a great time on board with captain Tim! We saw dolphins and even had one swimming with us as we were tubing!”
Wrapping It Up
If you’re after a low-key, private water adventure that offers the chance to see dolphins and enjoy the natural beauty around Hilton Head, this tubing trip can be a highlight of your visit. Its simplicity is actually its strength—no stress, no complicated planning, just a straightforward experience with friendly guides.
Travelers who appreciate local knowledge and a personalized approach will really enjoy the captains’ insights and the peaceful environment. It’s a fantastic option for those who want a memorable, relaxed outing without the rush or crowds.
While it’s not for thrill-seekers or those looking for an all-day adventure, this trip fits perfectly into a laid-back day of exploring Hilton Head’s waters. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo wanting some quiet time on the water, this private tubing experience is worth considering for a fun, easygoing escape.
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