Welcome Aboard The Beaufortonian

Experience the Beaufort Waterways Where History Comes Alive

Step back in time and into the soul of the Lowcountry aboard The Beaufortonian — a locally owned, custom-built tour boat designed specifically for navigating the historic waterways of Beaufort, South Carolina. With roots dating back to 1711, Beaufort is one of America’s oldest towns, steeped in stories of colonial settlers, Revolutionary War heroes, Gullah culture, and antebellum grandeur. A true "Beaufortonian" is someone who belongs to this place — someone who knows its tides, its tales, and its traditions. That’s exactly who operates this vessel: local captains with a deep connection to the water and a passion for sharing the area's rich heritage with you.

A Boat Built for Beaufort, SC

Custom-crafted for comfort, safety, and exploration, The Beaufortonian is a C-Hawk 25, a Coast Guard-inspected vessel that blends classic Carolina style with modern functionality. With spacious walk-around room, it comfortably seats up to 14 passengers — plenty of space for your crew to spread out, yet designed to keep the wild kids (or your wild uncle) safely onboard. Four shaded seats just in front of the captain offer a relaxing, protected view — perfect for taking in the sweeping salt marshes, historic homes, and breathtaking sunsets that define this coastal paradise.

Book Your Journey on The Beaufortonian today

Whether you're soaking in the golden glow on a Sunset River Cruise, diving into the past on a Beaufort River Tour, or crafting your own day on the water with a Captained Boat Rental, The Beaufortonian offers more than just a ride — it offers a story. Your journey will be led by seasoned locals who don't just know the area — they live it. Expect tales of pirates and plantations, Spanish moss and Southern resilience, Civil War forts and Hollywood film sets.

Dolphin In Beaufort River South Carolina

FAQ’s

  • You and your crew get a fully outfitted Coast Guard Inspected Vessel rated to cary up to 14 passengers to yourselves along with a professional, licensed/insured captain/guide. Private trips are not shared with people not in your crew.

  • We are located at the Port Royal Landing Marina. The Address is: 1 Port Royal Landing Dr, Port Royal, SC 29935

  • We will not take you out in conditions you will not enjoy. If unexpected bad weather occurs on a trip we will promptly return to the marina. If the weather is bad we will either cancel and fully refund your trip or reschedule your trip if you would like to try another time.

    • Click Here > select the type of trip you want > select a date > select an available trip time > select your group size > Then follow the remaining prompts.

    • You can also book by calling and inquire about trip via email.

    • We are a small business so if you call and we do not answer we are probably on trips Please leave a voice mail or shoot us an email and we will respond ASAP.

    • At all times of the day dolphins have to regularly come up for air where they can be observed. There is not one time of the day that is better than others for seeing them.

    • For dedicated birding trips there are some tides we would not recommend so feel free to call ahead before booking.

    • For a detailed description of what you could see on our trips click Here.

  • Sunglasses, hat, non-spray sun protection (aerosol is harmful to the boats deck and cushions), an extra layer to block the wind when it is cool out. If you would like to do beach combing on our three and five hour trips we recommend closed toe shoes that can get wet as well as a few towels.

  • Yes, you are more than welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages. Beer, wine, and champagne are permitted for guests over 21. Coolers are also welcome.

  • Our boat has comfortable, cushioned seating and a large T-top for shade. There is no restroom onboard.

  • Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price.

Bird Catching Food - Nature Boat Tour Beaufort SC
Otters in the Beaufort River - Nature Boat Tour
Book A Tour

  • This was an experience my family & I will cherish forever! We saw dolphins immediately. Our friendly guide John is from Beaufort and very knowledgeable about the history and environment. I highly recommend this tour.

    Matthew L

  • Our family went on a dolphin cruise with Captain Rob. Very knowledgeable about the local wildlife and fauna in Beaufort. He made sure that we would be able to see the dolphins swimming in the area. It was a fantastic experience for us. Would definitely recommend this company and Captain Rob as your guide.

    Roam

  • Captain John was both incredibly knowledgeable and entertaining. We greatly enjoyed learning the history of the area and seeing several dolphins as well as learning about them and their behaviors. We also saw and learned about 20 different bird species. The trip was everything we expected and MORE.

    Amy C

  • We absolutely loved the sunset dolphin cruise! John was very informative & knowledgeable about the area & history. If you get the opportunity we highly recommend doing this. Absolutely stunning views! You won't be disappointed 😊

    Loretta Garland