Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort

Hilton Head Island , United States

Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort

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(15 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Combine Costal Expedition's 90-minute Dolphin & History Boat Cruise with a Historic Bus Tour of the City of Beaufort.

Departing, from the downtown Beaufort Marina at the Waterfront Park (1006 Bay St), this Land & Sea tour is a fun and family-friendly escape. Take our air-conditioned bus on a Historic Tour of the City of Beaufort at either 10 am or 12:30 pm. Then take a break for lunch or to walk around the park before your 3 pm Boat Cruise along the waterway. You will get another perspective of Beaufort's incredible history and abundant wildlife. Learn stories about Native Americans, Spanish exploration, French settlement, and English colonization - all while seeing playful dolphins, bald eagles, and ospreys. This 90-minute cruise is a relaxing–and cool–break from land that will entertain the whole family!

**The boat only goes out on certain days of the week, so please expect a call from a Kelly associate to clarify scheduling.

Available options

Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort

What's included

Please note: The boat portion is provided ONLY on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

Kelly Tours is the Land portion of this combo ticket with a 75 minute guided Historic Tour by bus.
Experience over three hundred years of history in Beaufort, South Carolina’s second oldest city. This charming city boasts a fascinating history of exploration by the Spanish, the French and the English. Explore the National Historic Landmark District to admire the sweeping antebellum homes, scenic views, and historic churches. Visit Old Point, the National Cemetery, the Bluff and several movie locations from Forrest Gump, The Great Santini, The Prince of Tides and The Big Chill, among others. You will fall in love with Beautiful Beaufort By the Bay!

Coastal Expeditions provides the Sea portion of this combo ticket with a 90 minute Boat Cruise.
There's no better way to experience all the land and sea have to offer than a tour departing from downtown Beaufort. Our family-friendly cruises are the perfect introduction to all that Beaufort has to offer, its incredible history and wildlife! You'll be regaled with stories of Native Americans, Spanish exploration, French settlement, and English colonization while keeping your eyes peeled for playful bottlenose dolphins and nesting bald eagles or ospreys out hunting. A fun escape for all ages, these 90-minute cruises provide the perfect break from land life, where you're sure to come away with plenty of laughs, facts about the local area, and unforgettable memories. Join us for an unforgettable time in beautiful Beaufort!

What's not included

Gratuity

Cost of Parking

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

11 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

The boat cruise will begin at the Beaufort Marina at 1006 Bay St, Beaufort, SC.

Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to tour time.

Important notes

- Kelly Tours will provide you the Land portion with a 75-minute guided bus tour through Beaufort's Historic district. *This Land portion is available Monday through Saturday at 10am, 12:30pm, and 3pm.*
- Coastal Expeditions will provide you the Sea portion with a 90-minute Dolphin and History Boat Cruise on Beaufort's main waterways. *This Sea portion is available Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 3pm.*

- When booking this combination ticket, please note, if you want to do both tours on the same day, you will take either the 10am or 12:30pm bus tour and then the 3pm boat tour. ***Please call our office at (843) 473 - 7107 to reserve you spot on the boat!***
- If you plan on doing this tour on separate days, please choose the time of your Land option here and ***call our office at (843) 473 – 7107 to reserve your spot on the boat tour (available on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 3pm).***
- Coastal Expedition's phone number is (843) 884-7684. Please call for more information about the boat cruise. ***Kelly Tours is closed on Sundays.***

About Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island is a picturesque barrier island off the coast of South Carolina, renowned for its pristine beaches, lush golf courses, and abundant wildlife. It offers a perfect blend of relaxation, outdoor activities, and upscale amenities, making it a top destination for families, golfers, and nature enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Coligny Beach Park

One of the most popular beaches on Hilton Head Island, known for its soft sand, clear waters, and family-friendly amenities.

Beach Half day Free

Sea Pines Resort

A luxurious resort offering golf courses, tennis courts, and access to Harbour Town, a charming marina and shopping district.

Resort Full day Expensive

Coastal Discovery Museum

A museum focused on the natural history and cultural heritage of the Lowcountry region.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate

Hilton Head Island Bike Trails

A network of bike trails that wind through the island's natural landscapes, offering scenic views and a great way to explore.

Outdoor Activity Half day Budget to Moderate

Savannah National Wildlife Refuge

A wildlife refuge offering opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife photography.

Nature Half day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a savory sauce.

Main Course Contains seafood and dairy.

She-Crab Soup

A rich and creamy soup made with blue crab meat and crab roe, flavored with sherry and butter.

Soup Contains seafood and dairy.

Fritters

Sweet or savory fried dough balls, often filled with fruit or seafood.

Appetizer Varies by filling.

Popular Activities

Kayaking Paddleboarding Zip-lining Beach lounging Spa treatments Golf Museum visits Historic tours

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to October

These months offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds. Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, while fall offers warm weather and lower humidity.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hilton Head Island is generally safe with low crime rates. However, visitors should take standard precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and taxi services
• Be cautious when using ATMs and credit cards

Getting there

By air

Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport • 35 miles
Hilton Head Airport • 5 miles

By bus

Savannah Greyhound Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus service is affordable and convenient for getting around, but schedules are limited.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Sea Pines Plantation Coligny Plaza Palmetto Dunes Harbour Town

Day trips

Savannah, Georgia

40 miles • Full day

A charming Southern city known for its historic district, beautiful architecture, and vibrant arts and culture scene.

Beaufort, South Carolina

30 miles • Half day to Full day

A historic coastal city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a charming downtown area.

Charleston, South Carolina

90 miles • Full day

A historic city known for its well-preserved architecture, rich history, and vibrant arts and culture scene.

Festivals

Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival • March Hilton Head Island Seafood Festival • May Hilton Head Island Blues & Jazz Festival • October

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (March-May, September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Rent a bike to explore the island's numerous bike trails and scenic views.
Try local seafood dishes, such as shrimp and grits and she-crab soup.
Book accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak season.
Respect the environment and wildlife by following local guidelines and regulations.