Dolphin Cruise: Hilton Head's Original Adventure

This is not just any boat ride—it’s the original dolphin cruise of Hilton Head, with over 50 years of operation on Hilton Head Island! Climb aboard the renowned Vagabond and discover the enchanting Lowcountry as it was intended to be viewed—from the water.

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • 149 Lighthouse Rd - Step onto the Vagabond for a 90-minute journey through the picturesque Calibogue Sound, heading towards the beginnings of the Atlantic Ocean! During the trip, enjoy views of famous Lowcountry landmarks such as South Beach, Daufuskie Island, Bull Island, and the historic Haig Point Lighthouse.
What's Included
  • Guaranteed wild dolphin sightings
  • Narration by our Captain who brings the history and wildlife to life
  • Breathtaking views of egrets, herons, pelicans, and more
  • Departs daily from under the famous Harbour Town Lighthouse
  • Cruise with Hilton Head’s original sightseeing company
  • Snacks and drinks available for purchase: beer, wine, soda, water
  • Adult beverages available for purchase
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Sea Pines Resort vehicle entry fee
Additional Information
  • Subject to favorable weather conditions. If the cruise is canceled due to poor weather, guests will have the option to reschedule for another date or receive a full refund.
  • Infants ages 2 and under cruise free, but a ticket is still required to account for them.
Location
149 Lighthouse Rd
Lighthouse Road
The Vagabond Cruise reservation office is located just behind the Harbour Town Lighthouse. If you have your mobile ticket you are able to go directly to the boat (Vagabond) 30-minutes before departure to board which is located on the pier in front of the Lighthouse.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.5
(403 Ratings)
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1 star
Voyage260494
Jan 11, 2026
Great Experience, Great Captain, Great Crew - Perfect weather and smooth sailing in spite of early morning fog. The captain is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about finding dolphins and educating people regarding dolphin lifestyle and facts. We were fortunate to see a young one, perhaps two or three months old, with her mother and midwife teaching her how to get food. We also saw dolphins in three other locations. The crew is extremely friendly and answers any questions. Highly recommend going on The Vagabond!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
David_p
Dec 27, 2025
Relaxing - It was very relaxing. You move very slowly, the captain calls out the dolphins around you…..and we saw a lot of dolphins. Then we slowly went out to the open ocean, saw the lighthouses and returned to the docks. Quiet and relaxing.
Review provided by Viator
Sturat911
Dec 27, 2025
Wonderful Adventure - Justin, Sam, and all the team members were wonderful. We had our puppy, Riggs, with us and they accommodated all of us with smiles, patience, and understanding. Sam went out of his way to ensure that we were doing well. The tour itself was fantastic. We saw dolphins numerous times and Justin did a wonderful job describing high points along the way.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lori_p
Dec 24, 2025
Lots of dolphins! - Excellent trip - we saw many dolphins! The captain and crew were terrific! We would definitely recommend!
Review provided by Viator
Janiceb
Nov 20, 2025
Fun afternoon dolphin cruise! - This was such a wonderful cruise. Great atmosphere & crew. We were surrounded by dolphins and watching them play was so relaxing. Great afternoon!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Greg_m
Nov 12, 2025
Great time and great... - Great time and great crew. We saw a lot of dolphins. Recommend to all. The weather was nice and sunny and the dolphins were out.
Review provided by Viator
Christie_s
Oct 28, 2025
Dolphin cruise - Captain Windows and Sam and Kelly were amazing. Very knowledgeable and friendly. They kept a positive fun vibe throughout the tour.
Review provided by Viator
Puretruthbtold
Dec 22, 2025
Donuts with Santa - Our family attended the donuts with Santa cruise. According to life 360 we went took a look near by around 5-10mph. The staff was friendly and attentive from beginning to end. When u dock the boat. Santa and his helpers were ready to take pics. You can sit inside or in the open at the top. There was a craft table for the kids to color wooden craft ornaments. The captain helped us locate dolphins. The kids were super excited! Some even swam really close to the boat. There was a flock of birds that stayed behind, from beginning to end, that kelp us entertained between the dolphin sightings. I don’t know where they got their donuts from but they were So Good! The icing was just the right amount. I was not expecting the white sprinkle to have a hint o pepper mint but it was milk and delicious. I deducted a star because when we booked. The site said 90-120 min but it was a 60 min tour. Highly recommend for a family outing.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Mary_g
Dec 11, 2025
Fun jumping dolphins - Dolphin sightings. Great information about area and birds, Only problem is it was hard to hear pilots muffled voice
Review provided by Viator
Michael_g
Dec 27, 2025
Was not allowed boarding... - Was not allowed boarding at 2 pm scheduled time, boat crew stated it was too late had to be rebook for 4 pm. Ridiculous trying to park at the site, get there 30 mins prior.
Review provided by Viator
From $44
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).