2 HR Dolphin Tour in North Myrtle Beach

Thinking about adding a dolphin cruise to your Myrtle Beach itinerary? This 2-hour tour offers a chance to see wild dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine creatures from a spacious double-deck catamaran. We’ve been poring over reviews and details to give you a clear picture of what to expect, so you can decide if this trip is worth your time and money.

What makes this tour appealing? First, it’s the unique double-deck vessel that promises fantastic views from both the shaded lower deck and the open-air upper deck. Second, many reviewers highlight the friendly, knowledgeable crew and the ease of booking – making it a hassle-free way to enjoy some marine wildlife and scenic waterways.

That said, there’s a note of caution. Some travelers found the ride a bit rough, especially when the boat is cruising at higher speeds, which can make dolphin spotting challenging. Also, since wildlife sightings depend on nature, there’s no absolute guarantee you’ll see dolphins every time.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic cruise with a good chance of dolphin sightings, especially during calm weather, this tour could be a great pick. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a comfortable boat experience, family-friendly outings, or just want to enjoy Myrtle Beach from the water.

Key Points

• Spacious double-deck catamaran offers excellent views and comfort.
• Wildlife sightings include dolphins, sea turtles, jellyfish, and seabirds.
• Flexible booking and full refund options make planning easier.
• Weather-dependent — cancellations occur if conditions aren’t safe.
• Reviews highlight a friendly crew and great value for the experience.
• No guarantees for dolphin sightings, but the ride itself is enjoyable.

A Closer Look at the Experience

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $37 per person, you get access to the vessel and all its amenities, including large restrooms and safety gear. It’s a straightforward booking with the convenience of a mobile ticket, which means no fuss on the day of your trip. You can purchase snacks and drinks onboard, but they aren’t included in the price, so bringing your own or grabbing something beforehand might be wise if you’re hungry.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour departs from Uncharted Waters, a location close to public transportation options, which is handy if you’re staying nearby. The main stop is the Uncharted Waters Dolphin and Fishing Charters area, where the boat heads out into the Intracoastal Waterway and beyond.

• Wildlife sightings are the star here. Expect to see bottlenose dolphins frolicking in the water, sometimes approaching the boat closely, depending on their mood and the weather conditions. Some reviews mention spotting Atlantic porpoises, leatherback sea turtles, jellyfish, and seabirds, making for a diverse marine spectacle.

• The crew’s effort to find dolphins is often praised. One reviewer mentioned, “Our captain tried her best to find dolphins,” which highlights that the crew actively seeks wildlife, even if sightings can’t be guaranteed. Sometimes, the dolphins may be shy or just not nearby, but the ride still offers plenty of scenic views and a lively atmosphere.

The Boat: Comfort and Views

This is the only double-deck catamaran in Myrtle Beach, which is a key feature. The upper deck offers unobstructed views and a refreshing breeze, perfect for wildlife watching. The lower deck provides shade, which is appreciated on sunny days, and the vessel is spacious enough to accommodate groups comfortably.

The Ride: Fun, Fast, and Scenic

Some reviews point out that the boat can be quite wiry at high speeds, which adds a thrill but can also make dolphin spotting tricky. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, you might find the boat traveling at full throttle more bumpy than peaceful. The captain and crew are generally helpful and friendly, with some reviewers noting they even invited guests to steer the boat for a few minutes—a fun bonus.

Wildlife Encounters and the Realities of Nature

While many travelers record seeing dolphins and other marine life, some, like one reviewer, mentioned not spotting dolphins but still enjoying the ride. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, especially since animals are free to choose whether or not to appear. However, the enthusiasm and knowledge of the crew seem to enhance the experience, making it more than just a boat ride.

Value for Money

Given the price point of $37, this tour offers good value, especially considering the length (around 2 hours) and the chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly staff, the clean boat, and the scenic views as highlights. It’s a laid-back activity suitable for most travelers looking for a memorable, relaxed water adventure.

Considerations and Downsides

• Weather dependency: The tour can be canceled if conditions aren’t safe, with full refunds offered if that happens. So, good weather is key.
• Speed concerns: Some guests found the boat traveling at full throttle most of the time, which could be uncomfortable for some or make spotting wildlife more difficult.
• Wildlife unpredictability: No dolphins every trip, as confirmed by some reviews, so patience is essential.
• Booking flexibility: Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, so it’s easy to reschedule if needed.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic water experience with a good chance of wildlife sightings. It’s especially suited for families, couples, or groups who enjoy being outdoors and don’t mind the possibility of a rougher ride. If you’re someone who appreciates a friendly crew, good views, and the thrill of spotting dolphins, this is a solid choice.

If dolphins are the main goal, remember that sightings depend on luck and weather. But if you just want to enjoy a scenic boat ride with a chance of marine wildlife, this tour delivers.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children? Based on reviews, the vessel’s spaciousness and the friendly crew suggest it’s family-friendly, though no specific age restrictions are mentioned.

How long does the tour last? It’s approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable outing without feeling overly long.

What’s the price? It costs $37 per person, which is reasonable considering the onboard amenities and the experience.

What should I bring? Bring snacks and drinks if you want, as they aren’t included in the price. Also, dress comfortably and be prepared for sun or wind, especially on the open deck.

Is there a guarantee I’ll see dolphins? No, sightings depend on wildlife and weather. The crew tries their best, but animals are unpredictable.

What amenities are on board? Large restrooms and safety gear are available, ensuring comfort and peace of mind during your ride.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance, and refunds are available if the tour is canceled due to weather.

Final Thoughts

This 2-hour dolphin tour in North Myrtle Beach offers a delightful way to enjoy the water, spot wildlife, and take in some stunning scenery. The double-deck catamaran design enhances the experience, providing excellent views and a comfortable ride. Budget-friendly at $37, it’s an accessible choice for most travelers wanting something a little different from the usual beach day.

While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, the friendly staff and scenic route make this a worthwhile experience for those who enjoy nature and boat rides. If you’re prepared for some variability in sightings and possibly a more energetic ride, you’ll likely find this trip enjoyable and memorable.

In the end, it’s a chance to relax, see some dolphins if they’re around, and soak up the coastal views — a good addition to your Myrtle Beach adventure.