Island Explorer
About Us

Lowcountry Nature Photos By Eric Horan

Personalized Tours

Island Explorer conducts personalized dolphin and nature eco-tours, specializing in small groups. We offer a unique variety of boats in our fleet. We use the latest in quiet engine and low-emission technology.

Island Explorer focuses on nature, scenery, wildlife, and positive family friendly experiences. Unlike some operations on Hilton Head Island, we do not offer water-skiing, tubing, fishing or other such excursions. 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 tours are for the kind of people who are looking for more than a quick run out to look at the dolphins between water-skiing trips. On our tours, we hope you will meet like-minded individuals who enjoy the beauty of the Lowcounty.

Eco-Friendly and Dolphin Smart

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 Hilton Head's dolphins and other wildlife. We follow the Dolphin Smart guidelines for responsible dolphin viewing. You will see dolphins in their natural habitat without harassment or interference.

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.

Capt. 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 both one-hour and two-hour dolphin and nature tours as well as a three-hour beach combing trip. We can organize half- or full-day excursions as private charters. In fact, we can customize our tours to whatever your interests may be.

A guest comment...
Jim's the best! He's so knowledgeable about all the plants, animals and development of Hilton Head Island. There's no better way to get to know the island. - The Pearson Family, Louisville, KY

Our Captains

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

Capt. Clint	Capt. Billy	Capt. Rick
Capt. Dianne	Capt. John	Capt. Dave