Hilton Head Island: Shrimp Trawling Boat Tour

If you’re considering a shrimping adventure off Hilton Head Island, this tour on the Tammy Jane could be a memorable, hands-on experience. It’s not just a relaxing boat ride—it’s a chance to see local traditions in action, learn about the shrimping process, and even take home some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever taste. We’ve looked into what makes this tour special and what to keep in mind, so you can decide if it fits your travel style.

What we love about this experience: It offers a genuine look into the local shrimping industry and provides plenty of opportunity for hands-on fun. Plus, the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the whole 2-hour trip feel approachable and engaging.

A possible consideration: Like any fishing excursion, the exact amount of shrimp you’ll take home isn’t guaranteed; it depends on what the nets catch that day. Also, the tour is quite straightforward, so if you’re craving a more luxurious or elaborate outing, this might feel a bit simple.

Ideal for: Travelers who enjoy local traditions, want a practical introduction to shrimping, or simply love the idea of helping out on a working boat. It’s especially suited for curious families, couples, or solo adventurers eager to get a taste of genuine Low Country life.

Key Points

• Authentic experience: Learn firsthand about local shrimping techniques and daily life for shrimpers.
• Interactive fun: Help sort and identify various sea creatures caught in the nets.
• Fresh seafood: Take home a bag of freshly caught Carolina shrimp—perfect for a home cook or seafood lover.
• Educational and family-friendly: Suitable for all ages, with guides who make the process engaging.
• Cost-effective: At $42 per person, it offers good value for a memorable, local experience.
• Limited guarantees: The amount of shrimp isn’t guaranteed, but even participating is rewarding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect During the Tour

The tour kicks off at the Vagabond Cruise reservation office, just below the Harbour Town Lighthouse. Arrive about 45 minutes early for check-in, and be prepared for a 30-minute boarding process. Once aboard the Tammy Jane, the crew will introduce you to the boat and its shrimping gear. The boat then heads out to shrimping waters near Daufuskie Island—a scenic area that offers a real taste of Low Country maritime life.

The Shrimping Process

You’ll see how the nets are dragged along the seafloor—this is the core of the experience. Watching the nets fill up with shrimp, fish, and sometimes other creatures like sharks or rays, is quite a sight. The crew will explain what each catch is, emphasizing safety and conservation as they release unwanted by-catch back into the water.

Sorting and Learning

One of the highlights is helping to sort the catch on the boat’s table. You’ll get a close look at the shrimp, which might be the main event, but also other sea life. The crew is praised for their knowledge, often teaching participants how to clean and prepare the shrimp. It’s hands-on, messy, but fun—whether you’re a seasoned cook or a curious newbie.

The Catch and Takeaway

While the exact amount of shrimp isn’t guaranteed—since fishing depends on what’s in the water—you’ll likely end up with a generous share. Many reviewers mentioned taking home close to 100 shrimp per group, enough to cook up a seafood feast. Just keep in mind that the shrimp are divided evenly among all participants, so the more people on board, the smaller your share.

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Additional Perks

You might also see other wildlife, like seabirds circling the boat, waiting for scraps, or sharks lurking nearby, as noted by past guests. Some reviews pointed out that guides are friendly and eager to share their knowledge, making the experience both educational and fun.

The Value of the Tour

For $42, you’re getting more than just a boat ride—you’re gaining insight into an important part of Low Country life. The trip lasts about 2 hours, which is a nice, manageable chunk of time. The price includes the entire shrimping activity, but food and drinks are extra—though beverages are available for purchase on board.

Many guests felt the tour was worth the cost, especially considering the personalized, hands-on nature of the experience and the opportunity to bring home fresh seafood. It’s a casual, relaxed outing that appeals to a wide range of travelers, from curious families to couples looking for something different.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at the reservation check-in, ensuring you arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress. You’ll board the Tammy Jane, a friendly, approachable vessel that’s well-suited for this kind of outing.

Out to shrimping waters: The boat moves toward the coast off Daufuskie Island. Here, the crew will explain how shrimping works and demonstrate the gear used—an interesting look at maritime life.

Netting and catch: Watching the nets get pulled in is the highlight. The sight of live fish, rays, and shrimp filling the net is quite engaging. Past guests have said, “It was very helpful that the crew taught us how to pull the heads and clean the shrimp,” making it interactive and satisfying.

Sorting: The crew guides you through sorting the catch on the table. You learn to identify different species, and the crew emphasizes safety and environmental responsibility by releasing non-targeted creatures.

Participatory fun: You’ll help sort, identify, and sometimes even feed seagulls or see sharks up close. The guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, making the fishing process accessible and interesting.

Return and takeaway: After the catch is sorted, you’ll be divided your share of shrimp. Many guests report taking home enough to cook a meal—whether that’s shrimp cocktail, coconut shrimp, or another favorite.

What the Reviews Say

One guest from August 2025 called it “a great experience for our whole family,” noting that even their baby and teenagers enjoyed it. They appreciated the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, especially noting how much there was to see and do once the nets were in.

Another guest highlighted the educational aspect, praising guides like Ish, Hunter, and Captain Renee for their engaging explanations of the environment and sea creatures. “It was fun and informative,” they said.

Several reviews mentioned the freshness of the shrimp—“we took ours home and made delicious coconut shrimp,” and “we ended up with a substantial bag.” Many found the experience to be both fun and practical, especially for seafood lovers.

A recurring theme was the hands-on participation—helping to pull in nets, sort the catch, and learn about the process—that made the trip memorable and worthwhile.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Arrive early: 45 minutes before departure to check in comfortably.
• Bring cash: For parking fees ($9 outside of Sea Pines Resort) and other small expenses.
• Dress casually: Expect to get a little wet or dirty. Wear comfortable clothes that can handle splashes.
• Bring a bag or cooler: For taking home your shrimp if you plan to cook them later.
• No food or drinks included: You can purchase beverages on board, but consider bringing snacks if you’re hungry during the trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy learning about local industries, or want a unique, hands-on activity, this shrimp trawling tour is a good pick. It’s particularly suitable for those who are okay with a bit of mess and unpredictability—fishing isn’t a guaranteed catch after all.

It’s a relaxed, accessible experience that doesn’t require prior knowledge or skill, making it appealing for families or travelers wanting to connect with Hilton Head’s maritime roots. If you’re a seafood lover, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to bring home fresh shrimp.

However, if you’re after a luxurious cruise or a highly curated experience, this might feel a little straightforward for your tastes.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The trip lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you enough time to participate without feeling rushed.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You’ll meet at the Vagabond Cruise reservation office, located just below the Harbour Town Lighthouse. Arrive 45 minutes early for check-in.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, reviews mention that children of all ages enjoyed it, especially with engaging guides. It’s a hands-on experience that can be fun for curious kids.

Do I get to keep the shrimp I catch?
Yes, the catch will be divided among the participants, generous enough for most to take home a good amount of shrimp.

What should I bring?
Bring cash for parking and any extras, and wear comfortable, casual clothes. A cooler bag can help keep your catch fresh.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Food and drinks are not included, but beverages are available for purchase on board. Snacks are up to you.

Is there any guarantee on the amount of shrimp?
No, because fishing depends on what’s in the water that day. Some guests get a lot, others less, but everyone gets an engaging experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour environmentally responsible?
The crew emphasizes safety and environmental responsibility, releasing by-catch back into the water, which is appreciated by eco-conscious travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Hilton Head Shrimp Trawling Boat Tour is a practical, authentic look into a cherished Low Country tradition. It offers an engaging mix of education, participation, and fresh seafood—perfect for those who want to see how local shrimp are caught and help out in the process.

While it’s not a luxury cruise, it’s a genuine experience that combines learning with fun, making it well worth the modest price. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy hands-on activities, appreciate local culture, or simply want a memorable story to tell back home.

If you’re up for a relaxed, informative outing that leaves you with a bag of fresh shrimp and a deeper appreciation for Hilton Head’s maritime life, this tour could be just the right fit.

You can check availability for your dates here: