All Boat Tours Archives - Coastal Expeditions Beaufort

Saint Phillips Island at Sunrise – NEW!

Annie Boyd — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 17:29:23 +0000

St. Phillips Island at Sunrise

BEAT THE HEAT WITH THIS SUNRISE TRIP

Since we’ve been running the St Phillips Island Ferry, summer is one of the most popular times to visit the island for locals and visitors to Beaufort. Over time we’ve tailored the Ferry to run on a specific tidal schedule in the summer to ensure plenty of beach for guests to escape the island’s buggy residents, and this summer we’re excited to launch sunrise trips to the island to beat the heat!

BOOK YOUR SPOT

AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY TRIP

Departing from the Coastal Expeditions Beaufort basecamp on St. Helena Island at sunrise, the Saint Phillips Island Ferry begins with a naturalist-led ecotour through the estuaries behind Hunting Island State Park to the St. Phillips Island dock. You’ll get to see the magic of the estuary as the creatures within it start their day with wading birds coming to the creeks to feed and bottlenose dolphins cruising the shorelines in search of fish.

SAFARI RIDE THROUGH THE ISLAND

At the dock on St. Phillips Island, we’ll board a tram that takes us through the maritime forest to the beach. Along this 3.5 mile tram tour, you’ll learn about the island and see wildlife like fox squirrels, raptors, ibis and painted buntings.

EXPLORE THE SHORELINE AND INLAND TRAILS

Once we arrive at the beach, you get to choose your adventure. Walk the beach and search for ocean treasures or hike some of the trail system within the maritime forest to look for birds, alligators and other wildlife. St. Phillips Island at Sunrise is the best way to start your day.

SEE UPCOMING SCHEDULE & BOOK

Tour Details

TOUR INFO

Adults: $65
Children 3-12: $35
Children 2 & under: Free

6 hours

WHERE TO MEET

ST. HELENA BASECAMP
1928 Sea Island Parkway
St. Helena Island, SC

From Hunting Island State Park, turn right and drive 5.9 miles. Coastal Expeditions will be on the left.

THINGS TO KNOW

Sunscreen, water, snacks and bagged lunch in a small backpack. Optional: binoculars, towel, swimsuit

Wear hat, sunglasses, quick-drying clothes and walking shoes (not flip-flops). Layers are your friend since the temperature on the island and boat can vary!

A SALTY EDEN

“St. Phillips encompasses nearly 4,682 acres of ancient landscape, all of it accessible only by boat, featuring narrow ridges of upland dunes flanking freshwater sloughs, with live oaks and magnolias on the high ground, palmettos and marsh grasses on the low. Here was a strand of pale and shifting sands cradling the boneyard remnants of trees, a salty Eden where dolphins leaped and vivid painted buntings perched on low branches while eagles and ospreys gazed from the treetops.”

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SOUTH CAROLINA STATE PARKS

Since 2020, Coastal Expeditions has proudly provided ferry service and ecotours of St. Phillips Island for Hunting Island State Park under a contract with South Carolina Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT).

Unless you are staying at the campground or have an annual park passport , you will need to pay the daily park admission fee to go on this tour. You can pay beforehand or when you get to our campus.
$8/adult; $5/SC seniors; $4/child ages 6-15; Free for children 5 and younger

“It’s a bit like a fragile family heirloom passed down with care and love. What better way to describe South Carolina’s remarkable St. Phillips Island?”

-SOUTHERN LIVING

Frequently Asked Questions

HOW EARLY SHOULD I ARRIVE FOR MY DEPARTURE?

The St. Phillips Island Ferry departs on time and does not return for latecomers. We recommend that you plan to arrive 20-30 minutes before departure. This will give you time to park, check your backpack and use the facilities before we go. Our St. Helena Island basecamp is a 2-acre campus shaded by live oaks and overlooking the estuary, making it a great place to relax before your adventure.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING WITH ME?

We recommend dressing for hiking while visiting St Phillips by wearing long, quick drying layers, close toed shoes, and a hat. There are no food options available on the island. Please make sure you pack in all of the water and food you will need for the day! Binoculars, sunscreen, and bug spray (especially in the summer!) are also backpack essentials according to our guides. Rain coats can be your best friend to help fend off salt spray on the boat, the occasional shower on the island, and even bites from pesky mosquitos!

We get a lot of questions about bringing beach chairs, and while you can, we find that people rarely end up actually using them. You’re better off taking advantage of the picnic tables, a favorite beach blanket, or really immersing yourself in the island by using the trees in the boneyard as a makeshift lunch spot!

WHAT IS THE ACTIVITY LEVEL?

After an enjoyable ecotour through the estuary, you’ll board a tram and ride 3.5 miles to the beach. From there, you can explore the shoreline or head into the interior island trails. You’ll need to be able to walk 1/4 mile from the tram to the seashore, or there is a short walk from the tram to the picnic area. This is a great intergenerational tour to a remote location due to the tram service offered on the island! Please call with any questions you may have about accessibility and we’d be happy to help.

The captain and mate can help you plan a route that fits your expectations and time on the island.

IS THIS THE SAME AS THE ST PHILLIPS ISLAND FERRY?

Yes! This is the same tour we offer throughout the year, just with a new departure time to enjoy sunrise on the boat trip out to the island and beat the hottest part of the day.

WHAT WILDLIFE SHOULD I EXPECT TO SEE?

Dolphins, alligators, bald eagles, wood storks, roseate spoonbills, fox squirrels, ospreys and more are often seen on this experience.

DOES TED TURNER LIVE ON THE ISLAND?

In 2018, Ted Turner sold St. Phillips Island to South Carolina State Parks. During the time that he owned St. Phillips Island, he put it under a conservation easement and had it designated a National National Landmark.

The house that he built is now available to rent by the week through South Carolina State Parks.

IS THIS A GOOD TOUR FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN?

If you come prepared, this is a good day trip for families with young children. Pack extra snacks and a change of clothing and set a pace that works for your family. If you have questions, please give us a call.

CAN MY DOG COME TO THE ISLAND?

Unfortunately dogs are not permitted on St. Phillips Island. In accordance with the land conservation and regulations from South Carolina State Parks pets of any kind are not allowed on the island. This restriction applies to all animals, including service animals.

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL? WHAT ABOUT THE WEATHER?

There is a 48-hour cancellation policy on this tour. If you cancel after this time, you are not eligible for a refund.

Weather (thunderstorms or high winds) may impact this excursion. Cancellations usually occur due to lightning, thunder or high winds. We will make sure to reschedule your group if needed. Our general cancellation policies apply unless our experts determine it is potentially unsafe or unwise to venture out. In the event that we decide to cancel due to weather, we will make every effort to call you at least two hours before your departure and help you reschedule or credit/refund the full cost of your trip.

The post Saint Phillips Island at Sunrise – NEW! appeared first on Coastal Expeditions Beaufort.

Private Boat Charters

aaron29902 — Wed, 26 Jul 2023 20:10:51 +0000

Boat Charters

PRIVATE BOAT CHARTERS

Almost any boat tour we offer can be adapted to a private charter or group tour.
Here are the most popular options:

Dolphin Cruise

St. Helena Basecamp
1.5 Hours
Up to 10 people: $400
($40/each additional person)

Beaufort Harbor Cruise

Downtown Beaufort
1.5 Hours
Up to 15 people: $600
($40/each additional person)

St. Phillips Island

St. Helena Basecamp
6 Hours
Up to 18 people: $1170
($65/each additional person)
– naturalist guide included

Inquire about a Boat Charter

Or Call (843) 929-2047

ST. HELENA ISLAND CHARTERS

1928 Sea Island Parkway

Our basecamp on St. Helena island is just a few miles from Hunting Island State Park and Fripp Island!

From our creek, we offer private boat charters year round. Dolphin watching, sunset cruises, beach drops, birding – we can create an itinerary that’s perfect for your group.

DOWNTOWN BEAUFORT CHARTERS

1006 Bay Street, Slip #H9

Our Beaufort boat charters depart just steps from the shops and restaurants of the historic downtown. Hop aboard a private charter to learn about local history, watch dolphins & wildlife or enjoy a Lowcountry sunset.

OUR LOCATIONS

With one location at the gateway to the sea islands and another on the doorstep of downtown Beaufort, we’re ready to welcome you to the wild.

Come out on out and see us!

See locations details

Our private dock on Ward’s Creek at our St. Helena Island basecamp

Frequently Asked Questions

DO YOU DO TOURS FOR LARGE GROUPS?

We are set up to handle large groups and would love to tailor the perfect outing by boat. Both locations can accommodate bus/motorcoach parking. Our newest motor vessel is a 49-passenger ferry that departs from downtown Beaufort.

I DON’T KNOW WHAT TO CHOOSE! IS THERE AN ITINERARY THAT YOU RECOMMEND?

It really depends on what you want to experience and the time of year! We’re happy to talk to you about the options so that you can make the right choice for your group. Give us a call or shoot us an email with the contact information listed at the bottom of this page.

WILL THE BOAT BE COVERED? IS IT STABLE?

Our boats are custom-built, Coast Guard-certified motor vessels that are designed to offer stable and comfortable tours in coastal waters. For added comfort, our boats are fully covered with a canvas top to protect from sun and rain.

OUR FLEET AND CAPTAINS

Coastal Expeditions boats are custom-built vessels with yearly US Coast Guard inspections & certifications.

Captains all hold master captain licenses and are engaging naturalists and local historians.

The post Private Boat Charters appeared first on Coastal Expeditions Beaufort.

Hunting Island Dolphin Cruise

aaron29902 — Wed, 17 May 2023 16:09:19 +0000

Hunting Island Dolphin

Cruise

SEE DOLPHINS IN THE WILD

We don’t want to jinx it by saying this, but in the three years that we’ve offered this tour, we’ve seen dolphins every time. Our Hunting Island Dolphin Cruise is a fantastic 1.5 hours on the water- and perfect for families and friends.

BOOK THE CRUISE

FUN & EDUCATIONAL

Bottlenose dolphins love the protected waters around Hunting Island State Park and take advantage of the “24-hour-all-you-can-eat seafood buffet” that teems under the water.

WILDLIFE & STUNNING VIEWS

Dolphins aren’t the only wildlife you’ll see! This rich habitat attracts bald eagles, ospreys, pelicans, blue crabs, herons, ibises and more.

Our guides will deepen your understanding of the area’s ecology by sharing about the local islands and waterways, how they were formed, and what unique features make for an ideal wildlife habitat.

GATHER A GROUP AND COME ON!

This 1.5 hour boat cruise is a great outing for all ages and is the perfect introduction to the beauty of the Lowcountry. Get a group of friends and family together for a relaxing boat cruise near Hunting Island State Park!

SEE UPCOMING DATES & BOOK

Hunting Island Dolphin Cruise Details

TOUR INFO

Adults: $40
Children 3-12: $20
Children 2 & under: Free

1.5 hours

WHERE TO MEET

ST. HELENA BASECAMP
1928 Sea Island Parkway
St. Helena Island, SC

From Hunting Island State Park, turn right and drive 5.9 miles. Coastal Expeditions will be on the left.

THINGS TO KNOW

Bring drinking water, sunscreen, and binoculars if you have them!

Dress for the weather and wear a hat and sunglasses. A light windbreaker or raincoat is often welcome, even on warm days.

LOOKING OUT FOR WILDLIFE

On Coastal Expeditions tours, we are careful not to do any thing that interferes with a wild animal’s natural behavior. On our dolphin tours, we follow practices that are taught to us by the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network to ensure that we never cause Atlantic bottlenose dolphins or other any other wildlife stress.

Dolphins are curious and gregarious by nature, and when they appear near the boat, we cut off the engines and enjoy their presence.

“Captain Henry Brandt offers a boat tour that cruises through the area’s Native American, Spanish, and French history; union occupation…all interspersed with musings on the estuary ecosystems and the fecund marvels of pluff mud.”

-SOUTHERN LIVING

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT WILDLIFE SHOULD I EXPECT TO SEE?

On the Hunting Island Dolphin Cruise, we regularly see bottlenose dolphins, eastern brown pelicans, bald eagles (and their nests!), ospreys, herons, egrets, roseate spoonbills, wood storks, shorebirds and more.

CAN I BRING MY DOG?

We love dogs, but please leave yours at home unless it is a medical service dog. Please call with any questions at (843) 929-2047.

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?

You’ll need to cancel 48 hours prior or you will not be eligible for a refund for the tour.

WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD?

Weather (thunderstorms or high winds) may impact this excursion. Cancellations usually occur due to lightning, thunder or high winds and we will make sure to reschedule your group if needed. Our general cancellation policies apply unless our experts determine it is potentially unsafe or unwise to venture out. In the event that we decide to cancel due to weather, we will make every effort to call you at least two hours before your departure and help you reschedule or credit/refund the full cost of your trip.

Your Content Goes Here

SHOULD I TIP MY GUIDES?

Gratuity is not included in your tour price. Our guides go above and beyond to make sure you have a fantastic time out on the water! Average gratuity ranges from 15%–25% of your tour cost based on your experience. It is not required, but always greatly appreciated!

The post Hunting Island Dolphin Cruise appeared first on Coastal Expeditions Beaufort.

Saint Phillips Island Ferry

aaron29902 — Wed, 17 May 2023 16:08:16 +0000

St. Phillips Island Ferry

EXPLORE A WILD BARRIER ISLAND

With ancients dunes and a mature forest dominated by Spanish moss-draped live oaks, Southern magnolia and saw palmetto, St. Phillips Island is a nature lover’s paradise, providing critical habitat for alligators, sea turtles, bobcats and a myriad of seasonal and resident bird species, including bald eagles, roseate spoonbills and painted buntings.

BOOK THE FERRY

AN UNFORGETTABLE DAY TRIP

Departing from the Coastal Expeditions Beaufort basecamp on St. Helena Island, the Saint Phillips Island Ferry begins with a naturalist-led ecotour along the Story River to the St. Phillips Island dock. Bottlenose dolphins feed in these creeks with their calves, and birds like herons and egrets hunt along the shoreline.

SAFARI RIDE THROUGH THE ISLAND

EXPLORE THE SHORELINE AND INLAND TRAILS

Once we arrive at the beach, you get to choose your adventure. Walk the beach and search for ocean treasures or hike some of the trail system within the maritime forest to look for birds, alligators and other wildlife. The Saint Phillips Island Ferry is a day in nature that you won’t forget.

SEE UPCOMING SCHEDULE & BOOK

St. Phillips Island Ferry Details

TOUR INFO

Adults: $65
Children 3-12: $35
Children 2 & under: Free

6 hours

WHERE TO MEET

ST. HELENA BASECAMP
1928 Sea Island Parkway
St. Helena Island, SC

From Hunting Island State Park, turn right and drive 5.9 miles. Coastal Expeditions will be on the left.

THINGS TO KNOW

Sunscreen, water, snacks and bagged lunch in a small backpack. Optional: binoculars, towel, swimsuit

Wear hat, sunglasses, quick-drying clothes and walking shoes (not flip-flops). Layers are your friend since the temperature on the island and boat can vary!

A SALTY EDEN

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH SOUTH CAROLINA STATE PARKS

“It’s a bit like a fragile family heirloom passed down with care and love. What better way to describe South Carolina’s remarkable St. Phillips Island?”

-SOUTHERN LIVING

Frequently Asked Questions

HOW EARLY SHOULD I ARRIVE FOR MY DEPARTURE?

WHAT SHOULD I BRING WITH ME?

WHAT IS THE ACTIVITY LEVEL?

The captain and mate can help you plan a route that fits your expectations and time on the island.

WHAT WILDLIFE SHOULD I EXPECT TO SEE?

Dolphins, alligators, bald eagles, wood storks, roseate spoonbills, fox squirrels, ospreys and more are often seen on this experience.

DOES TED TURNER LIVE ON THE ISLAND?

The house that he built is now available to rent by the week through South Carolina State Parks.

IS THIS A GOOD TOUR FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN?

CAN MY DOG COME TO THE ISLAND?

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL? WHAT ABOUT THE WEATHER?

There is a 48-hour cancellation policy on this tour. If you cancel after this time, you are not eligible for a refund.

The post Saint Phillips Island Ferry appeared first on Coastal Expeditions Beaufort.

St. Helena Sunset Cruise

aaron29902 — Wed, 17 May 2023 16:07:35 +0000

St. Helena Sunset Cruise

SUNSET IN THE SALT MARSH

Come out for a relaxing boat cruise in the estuary at the end of a Lowcountry day. Watch the sky fade into a haze of pinks and purples as we look for wildlife like dolphins, ibises, bald eagles and pelicans.

BOOK THE CRUISE

A GREAT FAMILY TOUR

Celebrate the day’s end as we watch the sun set over the horizon on a laid back estuary tour. It’s a great time to be on the water, watching the shorebirds head back to their island roosts and the dolphins meander through the creeks.

THE MARSH AT DUSK

This one of our favorite times to be on the water, especially in the summer! You’ll be taken by the sweeping views across the fields of marsh grass and the changing coastal light.

GATHER A GROUP AND COME ON!

Hop on this 1.5 hour boat cruise with family and friends for a memorable evening on the water.

SEE UPCOMING DATES & BOOK

LOOKING OUT FOR WILDLIFE

Dolphins are curious and gregarious by nature, and when they appear near the boat, we cut off the engines and enjoy their presence.

St. Helena Sunset Cruise Details

TOUR INFO

Adults: $40
Children 3-12: $20
Children 2 & under: Free

1.5 hours

WHERE TO MEET

ST. HELENA BASECAMP
1928 Sea Island Parkway
St. Helena Island, SC

From Hunting Island State Park, turn right and drive 5.9 miles. Coastal Expeditions will be on the left.

THINGS TO KNOW

Dress for the weather and wear a hat and sunglasses.

A light windbreaker or raincoat is often welcome, even on warm days.

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT WILDLIFE SHOULD I EXPECT TO SEE?aaron299022023-05-24T18:00:06-04:00

WHAT WILDLIFE SHOULD I EXPECT TO SEE?

Bottlenose dolphins, Eastern brown pelicans, bald eagles (and their nests!), ospreys, herons, egrets, roseate spoonbills, wood storks, shorebirds and more.

IS THIS A GOOD TOUR FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN?aaron299022023-05-24T17:59:59-04:00

IS THIS A GOOD TOUR FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN?

Yes! This is an exciting tour for kids because we see a lot of wildlife during the time we are on the boat. This is a good choice for intergenerational family outings, too!

WHAT KIND OF BOAT WILL WE BE ON?aaron299022023-05-24T17:59:53-04:00

WHAT KIND OF BOAT WILL WE BE ON?

Motor vessel Gannet is a US Coast Guard-certified passenger carrying vessel with a master captain at the helm. This boat holds more than 28 people comfortably and has a sun shade that covers the boat.

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?aaron299022023-05-24T18:33:27-04:00

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?

You’ll need to cancel 48 hours prior or you will not be eligible for a refund for the tour.

WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD?aaron299022023-05-24T18:33:31-04:00

WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD?

SHOULD I TIP MY GUIDE?aaron299022023-05-24T18:34:51-04:00

SHOULD I TIP MY GUIDE?

The post St. Helena Sunset Cruise appeared first on Coastal Expeditions Beaufort.

Beaufort Dolphin and History Cruise

aaron29902 — Wed, 17 May 2023 16:06:51 +0000

Beaufort Dolphin & History Cruise

SEE BEAUFORT FROM THE WATER

You haven’t seen Beaufort until you’ve seen it by water. And our captains are natural storytellers that can give you a deeper understanding of Beaufort’s layered history. Step onto the boat and onto adventure!

BOOK THE CRUISE

EXPLORE THE BEAUFORT RIVER

Departing from the downtown Beaufort Marina at the Waterfront Park, this 1.5 hour fun escape is the perfect introduction to Beaufort’s incredible history and abundant wildlife.

LOCAL TALES & NATIVE WILDLIFE

As we cruise along the waterfront, the captain shares stories about local history, beginning with Native Americans and into Spanish exploration, French settlement and English colonization. Along the way, we’re likely to see playful bottlenose dolphins, nesting bald eagles and ospreys on the hunt.

GATHER A GROUP AND COME ON!

Offered year round, this 1.5 hour cruise along the historic waterfront and the Beaufort River is how Beaufort was meant to be seen.

Private tours are also available.

SEE UPCOMING DATES & BOOK

Beaufort Dolphin & History Cruise Details

TOUR INFO

Adults: $40
Children 3-12: $20
Children 2 & under: Free

1.5 hours

WHERE TO MEET

BEAUFORT MARINA OUTPOST
1006 Bay Street
Beaufort, SC 29902

Arrive 15 minutes early and check in at the top of the dock. Parking is available for $1/hour in the marina lot. (free on Sundays and after 6 p.m.)

THINGS TO KNOW

Dress for the weather and wear a hat and sunglasses. A light windbreaker or raincoat is often welcome, even on warm days! Bring drinking water (and binoculars if you have them)

“Captain Henry Brandt offers a boat tour that cruises through the area’s Native American, Spanish, and French history; union occupation…all interspersed with musings on the estuary ecosystems and the fecund marvels of pluff mud.”

-SOUTHERN LIVING

Frequently Asked Questions

WHAT WILDLIFE SHOULD I EXPECT TO SEE?

Bottlenose dolphins, Eastern brown pelicans, bald eagles, ospreys (and their nests!), herons, egrets, wood storks, shorebirds and more.

IS THIS A GOOD TOUR FOR FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN?

This is a good choice for intergenerational family outings because of the variety of topics covered during the tour. We tend to see more dolphins and wildlife in the late spring, summer, and early fall. Depending on their presence, this tour can be more history-heavy which may or may not be captivating for your child.

If you have any questions about the suitability of the tour for your group, please give us a call at (843) 929-2047 and we’d be happy to recommend the perfect tour for y’all!

WHAT KIND OF HISTORY IS DISCUSSED?

This tour typically goes south on the Beaufort River and addresses colonization and exploration of the Beaufort area! From the time of Native Americans up until British settlement (with a little touch of Civil War history), this is a great opportunity to get a taste of the history that makes Beaufort so great.

WHAT KIND OF BOAT WILL WE BE ON?

Motor vessel Godwit is a US Coast Guard-certified passenger carrying vessel with a master captain at the helm. This boat holds more than 30 people comfortably and has a sun shade that covers the boat.

WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?

You’ll need to cancel 48 hours prior or you will not be eligible for a refund for the tour.

WHAT IF THE WEATHER IS BAD?

SHOULD I TIP MY GUIDES?

The post Beaufort Dolphin and History Cruise appeared first on Coastal Expeditions Beaufort.

Beaufort Sunset Cruise

aaron29902 — Wed, 17 May 2023 16:05:45 +0000

Beaufort Sunset Cruise

GOLDEN HOUR ON THE WATERFRONT

Make this experience a part of your Beaufort story. Wind down your day on the water.

BOOK THE CRUISE

THE BEAUFORT SUNSET CRUISE – THE BEST WAY TO END THE DAY

In the South, we live for the golden hours at the end of the day when the heat breaks and the sun sets over the horizon. The colors become more saturated and the the marsh takes on a memorable glow as we head towards dusk.

EVENING RITUALS

Being on the water this time of day lets us see the inhabitants of the salt marsh prepare for their nightly routines. Ibises and egrets return to their roosts, night herons begin their evening hunts and dolphins lope through the creeks.

GATHER A GROUP AND COME ON!

This 1.5-hour boat cruise is a great outing for all ages and is the perfect introduction to the beauty of the Lowcountry. Afterwards, stroll the waterfront with an ice cream or enjoy dinner on Bay Street to make the day complete.

SEE UPCOMING DATES & BOOK

Beaufort Sunset Cruise Details

TOUR INFO

Adults: $40
Children 3-12: $20
Children 2 & under: Free

1.5 hours

WHERE TO MEET

BEAUFORT MARINA OUTPOST
1006 Bay Street
Beaufort, SC 29902

Arrive 15 minutes early and check in at the top of the dock. Parking is available for $1/hour in the marina lot. (free on Sundays and after 6 p.m.)

THINGS TO KNOW

Dress for the weather and wear a hat and sunglasses. A light windbreaker or raincoat is often welcome, even on warm days! Bring drinking water (and binoculars if you have them)

LOOKING OUT FOR WILDLIFE

Dolphins are curious and gregarious by nature, and when they appear near the boat, we cut off the engines and enjoy their presence.

“Captain Henry Brandt offers a boat tour that cruises through the area’s Native American, Spanish, and French history; union occupation…all interspersed with musings on the estuary ecosystems and the fecund marvels of pluff mud.”