We Specialize In Dolphins and Nature

Island Explorer conducts personalized dolphin and nature eco-tours, specializing in small groups. We offer custom-built twelve passenger boats, that use the latest in quiet engine and low-emission technology.

Our Mission

Island Explorer focuses on nature, scenery, wildlife, and positive family friendly experiences.

We are specialists in the Lowcountry experience. Our captains are specially chosen and trained to be knowledgeable and entertaining guides.

We adapt to every situation whether our guests are the youngest children or the most serious professional photographers.

Our Goal

Island Explorer focuses on the natural beauty of Hilton Head Island and offers insight and education about our complex and vibrant eco-system.

Guests have wonderful opportunities for taking exceptional photos and for learning more about dolphins and other Lowcountry wildlife.

And most important, we want to give your family or group a fun and exciting, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

We follow the Dolphin Smart guidelines for responsible dolphin viewing in their natural habitat without harassment or interference.

Why Choose Us?

  • Over 30 years experience

  • Professional captains

  • The best boats

  • Small group experience

  • We love kids and families

  • Eco-friendly business

  • Perfect safety record

  • Best price and value

The Best Boats

Island Explorer offers perfectly designed twelve passenger boats that can accommodate small and large families and groups.  Larger groups can reserve two or three boats and bring the whole crew.  Our US Coast Guard certified 12-passenger Carolina Skiffs are custom-built for Island Explorer and designed to offer the smoothest and safest cruise on the island.

Do you have mobility issues? Watch this video about parking, walking to our docks, and boarding our boats.

Island Explorer 2

Island Explorer 2 is based on a 27-foot Carolina Skiff, heavily customized to Island Explorer specifications and according to the regulations of the US Coast Guard for a 12-Passenger certified tour vessel. With comfortable cushioned seating for up to 12 adults and full viewing in all directions, this is the perfect boat to get your large family or group close to the dolphins and nature found around Hilton Head Island.

The Island Explorer 2 carries a shallow draft making it perfect for easy landings at Vanishing Island and a great boat to navigate the shallow waters of the Lowcountry marshes. Seating along the sides of the boat offer great viewing in every direction. Two seats in front of the console are protected from the sunlight by our bimini T-top. Whether you want sun or shade, there is a perfect seat for you on the Island Explorer 2.

Island Explorer 3

Our Island Explorer 3 is based on a 27-foot Carolina Skiff, heavily customized to Island Explorer specifications and according to the regulations of the US Coast Guard for a 12-Passenger certified tour vessel. With comfortable cushioned seating for up to 12 adults and full viewing in all directions, this is the perfect boat to get your large family or group close to the dolphins and nature found around Hilton Head Island.

The Island Explorer 3 carries a shallow draft making it perfect for easy landings at Vanishing Island and a great boat to navigate the shallow waters of the Lowcountry marshes. Seating along the sides of the boat offer great viewing in every direction. Two seats in front of the console are protected from the sunlight by our bimini T-top. Whether you want sun or shade, there is a perfect seat for you on the Island Explorer 3.

Island ExPress 4

The newest addition to our fleet is a great design that will comfortably seat up to 14 people, This custom-designed and built US Coast Guard certified vessel is smooth riding and fast. Bring your whole family or group, and you'll have plenty of space for everyone.

The Best Captains

Our Captains are among the friendliest, most knowledgeable, and most entertaining on Hilton Head Island.  They have years of experience in waters around Hilton Head Island.  All of our captains are US Coast Guard licensed Master Captains.

Capt. Robert

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Capt. Cody

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Capt. Thad

Capt. Angela