Island Explorer
About Us

Lowcountry Nature Photos By Eric Horan

Personalized Tours

Island Explorer conducts personalized dolphin and nature eco-tours specializing in groups of six passengers or fewer. We use upscale Novurania (Zodiac-type) inflatable, and comfortable, shaded deck boats. We also use the latest in quiet engine and low-emission technology.

Accommodations for up to 12 passengers on two boats can be arranged for larger groups and families. Our compact and fast shallow draft boats allow us to explore the full spectrum of Hilton Head's pristine waters.

Experienced Professional Captains

Explore tidal creeks at low tide and get up close to wildlife and friendly dolphin. Our tour guides are USCG-LIcensed Captains and knowledgeable naturalists who have spent years exploring the waters around Hilton Head and surrounding islands.

Captain Jim Harkins, a USCG Master, has been providing watersports activities for Hilton Head Island visitors since 1978. Jim, also a father, can plan the perfect outing for curious kids - crabbing, castneting, fishing, tubing, or beach combing on surrounding islands. Our trips will truly get you off the beaten path. They are designed to be fun, educational, and to provide lasting memories of your visit to the Lowcountry.

We offer a two-hour dolphin and nature trip and a three-hour beach combing trip over low tide. We can organize half- or full-day excursions. Four-hour and full-day trips can include fishing, crabbing,tubing, and learning to throw a cast net.

Our Captains

Our Captains are all US Coast Guard licensed, experienced and knowledgeable about the surrounding area.

Capt. Jim Harkins

Capt. Chris Epps

Capt. Rick Hubbard

Capt. Bobby