Charleston, SC: Folly Beach Private Sunset & Dolphin Cruise

Imagine slipping onto a boat just as the sun begins to dip toward the horizon, with the gentle sounds of water and wildlife around you. That’s exactly what this Folly Beach Private Sunset & Dolphin Cruise promises. Offered by Morris Island Charters, this 90-minute journey combines the beauty of a South Carolina sunset with the thrill of spotting wild dolphins in their natural habitat—and all in an intimate, small-group setting.

We’re not claiming to have experienced it ourselves, but the reviews and details paint a picture of a calm, scenic escape that appeals to those who love wildlife, history, and a peaceful end to a day at the beach. Two standout features we love are the chance to see wild dolphins up close in a relaxed environment and the stunning view of Morris Island Lighthouse bathed in evening light. A possible consideration is that this cruise isn’t suited for those with mobility challenges or wheelchair users, as the activity involves boarding a boat and being on deck. This tour is perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a gentle, authentic experience in the Charleston area that balances natural beauty with a touch of history.

Key Points

Small group intimacy enhances the experience, offering personalized wildlife viewing.
Dolphin sightings are a highlight, with playful, wild dolphins in their natural environment.
The Morris Island Lighthouse provides a historic and picturesque water-side view.
Timing at sunset offers extraordinary photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere.
Inclusion of safety gear and water adds peace of mind and comfort during the cruise.
Flexible booking options allow for reservations that can be canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Relaxed, Authentic Water Adventure

This private sunset cruise from Folly Beach is designed to be about unobtrusive, natural beauty rather than high-energy adventure. It’s a calm trip through creeks and estuaries, which means you can unwind while watching dolphins play and birds settle in for the night. The boat, a modest vessel with a blue T-Top and the name “Blue Moon,” is designed for small groups (up to 4 people), creating an intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for couples or small families.

The duration of 1.5 hours makes it a manageable activity that fits well into a laid-back afternoon or early evening. The included bottled water and ice ensure you stay refreshed, and safety equipment, including life vests, are on hand, though you might want to bring along sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen for comfort before the sun dips down.

The Itinerary in Detail

The cruise begins right after you meet at the parking lot just past the bridge to Folly Beach, immediately on your right, next to Hotel Folly. Once you arrive, look for the boat with the blue T-Top that says “Blue Moon”—your vessel for the hour and a half adventure.

As the boat departs, your captain guides you through the calm creeks and inlets, revealing local wildlife and scenic views. The main highlight here is dolphin watching—we loved the way these playful creatures often appear close, sometimes even leaping out of the water as if putting on a show just for you. Several reviews mention that guests have been delighted by dolphins swimming alongside the boat or arching out of the water in playful bursts.

Another key stop is Morris Island, where the famous lighthouse is clearly visible from the water. The lighthouse, bathed in the glow of sunset, offers a historic and photogenic backdrop. Passengers often comment on how wonderful it is to see such a historic site from this vantage point—for many, it’s a unique perspective that’s both scenic and educational.

The cruise then continues to wind back toward the dock, with the sun slowly disappearing behind the horizon. The peaceful ambiance combined with the natural sounds of water and wildlife creates a memorable moment to simply relax and enjoy the scenery. You’re encouraged to bring your own beverages to sip as you soak in the views, making it feel like a quiet, personal moment rather than a commercial tour.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out

Wild Dolphin Encounters – The primary draw is the opportunity to see dolphins in their natural environment. Multiple reviews highlight how exciting it is to see these intelligent creatures playing in the creeks, sometimes quite close to the boat, providing unforgettable photo moments.

Historic Views of Morris Island Lighthouse – This iconic lighthouse, a symbol of Charleston’s maritime past, is a feature everyone loves. Watching it glow at sunset adds a special touch to the voyage, making it more than just a wildlife tour.

A Quiet, Unhurried Experience – Unlike crowded boat tours, this private cruise offers a relaxed pace, allowing guests to truly soak in the environment without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Safety and Comfort – The inclusion of life vests, safety equipment, ice, and bottled water ensures that the experience is both comfortable and secure, which can be a big plus, especially for those unfamiliar with boat trips.

Flexibility and Ease of Booking – The option to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, provides peace of mind, especially if your travel plans are not yet firm.

The Value of the Experience

At $315 for a group of up to 4, the cost breaks down to roughly $78 per person, which is quite reasonable given the personalized nature of the tour. Compared to larger, less intimate tours, this private cruise offers a more tailored experience, with fewer people competing for wildlife sightings and photo ops.

The small group size and private nature make this a great choice if you prefer a calm, personal experience rather than a large, busier tour. Plus, because refreshments are BYOB, you can tailor your drinks to your taste and enjoy a leisurely, unhurried moment on the water.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is ideal for couples seeking a romantic sunset experience, small groups of friends, or families with older children who can appreciate wildlife and scenic views. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a quiet, authentic glimpse into the local ecosystems while enjoying a historic landmark from a fresh perspective.

However, it’s less suitable for anyone with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as the activity involves boarding a boat and being on deck. If you’re looking for a fast-paced adventure or a larger group experience, you might prefer other options.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Bring sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen for daytime comfort before the sunset.
• Plan to arrive a few minutes early at the parking lot, which is immediately on your right after crossing the bridge.
• Bring your preferred beverages (water included) to sip and relax.
• Avoid bringing glass objects for safety reasons.
• Remember, this is a small group experience—reserve early to secure your spot.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable and relaxing activity.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the boat trip, the captain’s guidance, a cooler with bottled water, ice, and safety equipment like life vests.

Is food or additional beverages provided?
No, food and beverages are not included, but you’re welcome to bring your own drinks (water is supplied).

Where do I meet the boat?
The meeting point is the parking lot immediately on your right as you come over the bridge to Folly Beach, next to Hotel Folly. Look for the boat with the blue T-Top and “Blue Moon” on the side.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children could enjoy the wildlife, the activity is not recommended for those with mobility issues or requiring wheelchair access.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before your scheduled trip.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Dolphins are the main attraction, often seen playing in the water. You might also observe various birds settling in for the night.

Is it a guided tour?
Yes, a live English-speaking captain guides the cruise, offering insights and answering questions during the trip.

This private sunset dolphin cruise offers a peaceful, authentic taste of South Carolina’s estuarine beauty. It’s a gentle way to connect with nature, enjoy a historic landmark from the water, and share a memorable moment with loved ones—all in under two hours. Its small-group setting ensures a personal touch that larger tours can’t match, making it a standout option for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic experience near Folly Beach.

If you’re after a calm, wildlife-focused outing with stunning sunset views, this cruise could be just what you need. It’s especially suited for those who value nature, history, and intimate experiences over high-energy activities. Just remember to book early, bring your camera, and prepare to unwind as the day ends with a splash of wildlife and a splash of color across the sky.

Experience provider: Morris Island Charters (Rating: 5)

Similar experiences:
See other dolphin and lighthouse tours here, offering a variety of options for wildlife viewing and scenic water adventures around Charleston and Folly Beach.

You can check availability for your dates here: