dolphin tours hatteras island

Cruise with Dolphins

Enjoy a beautiful outer banks sunset cruise while watching dolphins play., join us on a dolphin watch sunset cruise near you in the outer banks on board the miss hatteras., climb aboard the miss hatteras head boat for a fun evening cruise as you watch a beautiful sunset with dolphins playing in the pamlico sound..

Join us on the Miss Hatteras head boat for a relaxing sunset cruise through the Pamlico Sound as we watch dolphins jump and play! Pack a few snacks, a couple of cold drinks, good friends and family and enjoy watching the sunset as we watch for the playful dolphins.

We take you and yours out for a fun and enjoyable evening complete with dramatic sunsets and beautiful dolphins. Have your camera ready!

A dolphin sunset cruise on the Miss Hatteras  is sure to be an extraordinary adventure! Book your trip today!

Pictures from our Outer Banks Dolphin Cruises

Scroll through to see some dolphins playing in the pamlico sound..

Set sail with us! Book your trip >>

Here’s what you need to know about our sunset dolphin cruises in the Outer Banks.

Enjoy live music on our dolphin cruises.

Our dolphin cruises run every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Each evening will feature live music on the top deck from talented local musicians. If music isn’t your thing, head down below where you can enjoy a nice peaceful evening on the water. To learn more about our live music, please check out our Live Music Sunset Cruise page.

Our dolphin cruise is fun and affordable for the whole family.

A sunset dolphin cruise on the Miss Hatteras costs $33.50 per person, and kids 3 and under ride free! We have trips near you that run every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm.

Depending on the season and when sunset occurs, we may change our schedule slightly. For instance, in the spring and fall, we tend to cruise from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm. As with all our other trips, please be at the dock a half hour before we cast off.

Don’t forget to pack some snacks and drinks!

Most folks tend to bring a cooler with some refreshments, food, drinks, alcoholic beverages, etc.

We don’t sell any refreshments on-board, so remember to bring some snacks and drinks for you and your friends or family! Our Frequently Asked Question page covers everything you need to know about coming aboard with us.

We offer various trips to fit into anyone’s schedule and budget.

We also offer half-day and full-day fishing trips, and even private charters! For the complete schedule of all our fishing trips and scenic cruises, check out our Miss Hatteras Rates and Schedule page.

An evening on the Pamlico Sound with dolphins is one you’ll never forget.

We’ve been operating our head boat in the Outer Banks for over 30 years, and we’d love to add you to our list of satisfied customers. For more information about our services click here to contact us or give us a call at  (252) 986-2365 .

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Hatteras Island Dolphin Tours

See if you can spot a dolphin on outer banks tours.

Whether sitting on the back deck of your Hatteras Island oceanfront rental home or cruising on a boat, you will discover there is no shortage of ways to spot Hatteras Island's popular residents –  dolphins and porpoises. Often spotted boating along the breakers or off the island's inlets, these creatures are a fun surprise to encounter on your Outer Banks vacation.

When it comes to things to do on Hatteras Island, nothing is more fun and memorable than dolphin tours and watches on the Outer Banks. You may be wondering how to make a dolphin encounter part of your upcoming getaway. While luck does play a role, there are some tips and tricks we can share to help increase your chances of spotting these animals.

Tips for Spotting Dolphins

Looking for the best tip to spot dolphins during your Hatteras Island vacation?  Keep your eyes on the water! Dolphins and porpoises can quickly emerge from the blue horizon, often for just a couple of seconds. By staying alert and vigilant, you’ll greatly increase your chances of catching a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.

Not only do dolphins and porpoises have different characteristics, but they also have different personalities. Porpoises can be aggressive if they feel threatened, while dolphins are generally non-aggressive and are seemingly curious about the other creatures that share their habitat. During inshore Outer Banks dolphin tours, it’s common for local dolphins to approach and interact with passengers, circling and cruising around them. However, it’s important to keep a safe distance and refrain from touching them.

The best thing you can do when spotting a dolphin is to have your camera ready! Thanks to their friendly behavior, dolphins provide excellent photo opportunities. Capture them frolicking in the water in images you'll look back on for years.

The Best Cape Hatteras Dolphin Tours

These outings will take travelers to the inlets and waters just off Hatteras Island in search of dolphins. Going on one of these tours is a great way to get close to these creatures, which will often bump against the boat as a curious greeting.

Plan a family-friendly outing by reserving your seat on one of these local charters.

• Family Water Adventures is known for many aquatic adventures, including eco-tours that help you discover incredible wildlife like dolphins.
• Miss Hatteras Fishing is more than a fishing charter. Chase the sunset on the Pamlico Sound as you search for beautiful dolphins on a relaxing cruise.

There are also incredible dolphin tours in other nearby Outer Banks locations. If you are planning a day trip to Manteo , set off on a cruise with Captain Johnny’s Dolphin Tours . Nags Head Dolphin Watch departs from two locations near Nags Head, making this activity a great addition to your Nags Head visit .

Other Outer Banks Dolphin Watching Opportunities

Book your Outer Banks vacation during the off-season for the best chance to spot dozens of dolphins at once. One of the best surprises of wintertime on Hatteras Island is that the dolphins and porpoises are in full force along the beaches, and it's not unusual to spot six, 10, or even a dozen cruising past the beach in a single speedy pack.

Your chances at spotting dolphins are not limited to just Hatteras Island tours. For an effortless experience, consider renting one of our oceanfront vacation rental homes . On clear days, dolphins are frequently seen just beyond the breakers, particularly in the uncrowded morning and evening hours when feeding activity is at its peak. Enjoy a cup of coffee on the back deck as you keep your eyes on the water to see if you can spot these beautiful creatures. Contact us today to reserve your oceanfront Hatteras Island home!

Nags Head Dolphin Watch – Dolphin Tours

Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research

Meet the Crew

Schedule a Daytime Tour

Schedule a Sunset Tour

Book online, pick a date range that best matches your visit.

Select a start AND end date. Select the same date twice to choose only one day

Selected Dates

Call 1-877-359-8447 to Reserve over the phone.

Daytime trip pricing.

• Adult - $32
• Child (12 & Under) - $18 per Child
• Infant (1 & Under) - $1 per infant

Sunset Trip Pricing

• Adult - $37
• Child (12 & Under) - $22 per Child

Location(s)

Nags head – whalebone, shallowbag bay club, oregon inlet fishing center, nags head, nc.

Our Dolphin Tours are VERY popular so we encourage you to book well in advance to secure your spot on this wonderful experience.

Join us on a unique eco-tour to search for wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and view the wildlife of the Outer Banks. Aboard our covered 40 foot pontoon boat, you will observe bottlenose dolphins, pelicans, and osprey!

Outer Banks Dolphin Tours

Join us on a unique eco-tour to search for wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. Also, view the wildlife of the Outer Banks! Biologists run these dolphin tours as part of their research on these beloved aquatic animals. So you know this will be an interesting trip. Passengers will be able to see how researchers with the Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research, a nonprofit organization, conduct their research. And hear about some of the discoveries from more than a decade of studies and monitoring.

Conducted on 40-foot covered pontoon boats in the Roanoke Sound, the trip takes around 2 hours. Along the way, researchers will talk about their work and share their discoveries from their ongoing study. While the boat is moving, dolphins will be playing in their natural habitat alongside the vessel. Passengers will also learn about the pelicans, osprey and other birds that congregate in the sounds, as well as the ecology and history of this dynamic area. The Outer Banks is an ideal place to take a dolphin boat trip to learn more about these miraculous creatures. These excursions will get you close enough to safely connect with these incredible animals and to experience them in the wild, in a world where humans are visitors and the bottlenose dolphin is happily at home. A great trip for families and people of all ages!

Note: Per Coast Guard regulations, infants DO count as passengers. Therefore, we must know the total number of people in your party – including infants.

About the Dolphins

Some of the hundreds of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in the area show up so frequently they’ve even been given names, like “Rake,” “Scarlet,” and “Onion.” Onion was first identified in Beaufort, North Carolina almost 20 years ago, and he has been sighted there almost every winter since. Apparently, Nags Head is his summer home, along with an extensive family of more than 100 members. When he was young, Onion had an unfortunate encounter with a boat propeller and his damaged fin has made him one of the most easily recognized dolphins around.

About the Vessels:

The Nags Head Dolphin Watch conducts its tours in the Roanoke Sound in between Nags Head and Manteo. The Nags Head Dolphin Watch operates two separate vessels conducting the same tour to see the same dolphin. You can have virtually the same experience aboard each boat, they simply depart from slightly different locations. The different locations are about a 5-7 minute drive apart from each other.

The Pheonix docks at Whalebone Watersports (Nags Head)

The Safari docks at Oregon Inlet Fishing Center (Nags Head)

The Miss Bodie Island docks at Shallowbag Bay Club (Manteo)

Fins Up! A day on the water with the Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research My Outer Banks Home Magazine – July 6, 2016 by Meg Puckett

On a sunny, breezy day toward the end of May, a pontoon boat bounces across the whitecaps on the Roanoke Sound, heading south from Whalebone Junction in search of some of the Outer Banks’ most charismatic residents: bottlenose dolphins. The boat is filled with people from all over the country (okay, today they’re mostly all from Ohio, but that’s still a long way from the Outer Banks!) eager to catch a glimpse of these storied marine mammals. We cannot guarantee that you will see dolphins during the tour, but that just serves as a reminder that these are wild animals, and seeing them in their natural habitat is a very special thing. Read More >

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Top Dolphin & Whale Watching in Hatteras Island, NC

Dolphin & whale watching in hatteras island.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
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• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Family Water Adventures

2. Miss Hatteras

3. Tradition Fishing

4. Countrytime Coastal

What travellers are saying

• Family Water Adventures
• Miss Hatteras
• Tradition Fishing

Outer Banks, NC

Dolphin cruises.

The Outer Banks offers a variety of guided dolphin tours or dolphin cruises. A relaxing dolphin watch is fun for the whole family. The peak season for dolphin tours is from June to October. Dolphin Tours are very popular so we encourage you to book in advance to secure your reservation.

Harbor Star Dolphin Tours

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Kitty Hawk Watersports – Dolphin Tours

The ocean is a vast, seemingly endless world. But we’re lucky enough to have the right conditions to attract groups...

Kitty Hawk Kites – Dolphin Tours

Search for wild Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and view the wildlife of the Outer Banks! Biologists run these dolphin tours as...

Causeway Watersports – Waverunner Tours

Causeway Watersports offers excelling waverunner tours of the Roanoke Sound. Our guides lead guests to look for dolphins and other...

Captain Johnny’s Dolphin Tours

Join Captain Stuart Wescott aboard The Captain Johnny boat for a Guaranteed Dolphin Watch cruise in protected waters off the...

Paradise Dolphin Cruises

Bottlenose Dolphins, Ospreys, Lighthouses and more. As you embark on our 2 hour journey, you'll witness some of the most...

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Hatteras Island Vacation Blog

Tips for dolphin watching on hatteras island.

Dolphin Watching on Hatteras Island

Whether you’re on the comfortable deck of your oceanfront rental , or on the bow of a local tour boat, you’ll discover that there are plenty of opportunities to spot one of Hatteras Islands’ most popular residents – the local dolphins and porpoises. Frequently spotted cruising along the breakers or just off the island’s inlets, these playful and very friendly creatures are a fun surprise encounter during a vacation, and can provide some exciting photos and memories to take back home and share.

So how do you make a dolphin encounter part of your upcoming vacation? While luck plays a major role, there are some tips and tricks for dolphin-loving visitors who want to meet and greet with these friendly Hatteras Island locals.

What to Look for: Dolphins vs. Porpoises

Sometimes those dolphins you see cruising along the ocean or Pamlico Sound waters aren’t dolphins at all – they’re actually porpoises, which also have a large local population within the Outer Banks waters. So how do you tell the difference? Look at the fins!

A porpoise’s fin looks is triangular, while a dolphin fin is curved, or hooked, on the center of its back. If you get close enough, you can also tell by their faces – dolphins tend to have long noses or “beaks” as opposed to a porpoise’s smaller mouth and spade-shaped teeth.

Where to Go: A Dolphin Tour or Your Own Backyard

As interest in the local dolphins has skyrocketed, a number of local inshore and nearshore charter businesses have started to offer special “dolphin tours” which will take visitors out to the inlets, as well as the waters just off the island, in search of these friendly creatures. These tours are a great way to get close to the critters, as they often bump against the boat as a curious greeting, and can be a family-friendly activity that everyone in the party will find simply unforgettable. Try a cruise aboard the Miss Hatteras out of Hatteras Village.

Visitors who want to see the dolphins without any effort other than stepping outside or looking out the window can also consider renting an oceanfront home . Often, dolphins can be spotted just past the breakers on a clear day, and can be especially prevalent in the morning and evening hours when the beaches are uncrowded, and the feeding is at its best. For a chance to spot dozens of dolphins at once, aim for a fall, winter or spring vacation. One of the best surprises of wintertime on Hatteras Island is that the dolphins and porpoises are in full force along the beaches, and it’s not unusual to spot 6, 10, or even a dozen cruising past the beach in a single speedy pack.

What to Do: Appreciate from Afar and Break Out the Camera  

While porpoises can get angry if they feel threatened, dolphins are seemingly curious about the other critters that share their waters. This is why inshore tour companies often have close encounters with the local dolphins, who will circle and cruise around the passengers, providing some excellent photo ops. Keep your distance, and keep your hands to yourself, but be ready to start snapping once the dolphins appear. Gregarious, friendly, and almost always traveling in groups, a pod of dolphins can be one of the best photo ops you’ll find along Hatteras Island.

The best tip for spotting dolphins? Keep your eyes on the water. Because a dolphin or porpoise fin can peek out of the blue horizon at any time – often for just a couple seconds – staying vigilant will go a long way. And after a day of looking, if the only thing you see in the miles of ocean waters are gulls, pelicans, and endless blue terrain, then you can still rest easy knowing that, at the very least, you enjoyed a beautiful day at the beach.

Indepth Information and Live Local Updates for the Outer Banks

Paradise Dolphin Cruises

Dolphin tours on roanoke island, nc.

Paradise Dolphin Cruises located in Wanchese, NC, operates the  Kokomo , a 40-foot catamaran that carries 40 passengers and offers a comfortable ride with a canopied top, cushioned seats and a restroom. The boat's location at Safe Harbor Outer Banks offers the closest access to the waters where these amazing creatures are most often found. Paradise offers four two-hour dolphin cruises daily Monday – Friday and 2 cruises on Saturday with the last trip being a dolphin cruise/sunset cruise for $25 to $35 per person. As you search for dolphins, you'll also enjoy the local scenery and learn about the other wildlife you will encounter. The boat is handicapped accessible and is available for private parties. Reservations are required for dolphin tours and sunset cruises so call ahead.

(252) 573-0547

Bottlenose dolphins, ospreys, lighthouses and more..

As you embark on our 2 hour journey, you'll witness some of the most spectacular scenes enjoyed in coastal North Carolina.

Dolphin Tours Outer Banks

Outer Banks Cruises

Monday - Saturday | 8am - 6:30pm

If you do not see dolphins you get to ride again for FREE. With our 98.5% success rate of viewing dolphins, the odds are definitely in your favor!

Monday Family Day

*All Cruises ADULTS 11 & UP: $25 CHILDREN 3-10: $25 AGES 0-2: FREE

Tuesday - Saturday

*Daytime cruises ADULTS 11 & UP: $30 CHILDREN 3-10: $25 AGES 0-2: FREE *Sunset Cruises ADULTS 11 & UP: $35 CHILDREN 3-10: $25 AGES 0-2: FREE

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time for a cruise, do you guarantee that i will see dolphins, can i feed the dolphins, can i swim with the dolphins, how long are your cruises, are reservations required, what should i bring with me, where does the cruise go.

No wonder so many of our visitors keep coming back and recommending us. See what they have to say...

“Excellent Time!”

We saw lots of dolphins. The captain was very knowledgeable and made sure we saw the dolphins. He was very friendly. I enjoyed this cruise and this is made for friends and families.

“Awesome Experience”

Captain Jay never disappoints, we come to OBX every year and do his dolphin tour every time. Awesome experience every time!!!

“Great tour!!!”

Great tour of the sound from the Captain and his mate. We went out Friday morning the 5th of August. We saw lots of dolphins, toured the sound and got a great education on the dolphins...

“Highlight of OBX Vacation”

This was a highlight of our OBX vacation! It took about 30 minutes to locate some dolphins, but suddenly they were all around! We sat at the front of the boat and would have gotten soaked...

See all of our reviews on Tripadvisor !

Offers & Specials

Outer Banks Info

The Kokomo leaves from Safe Harbor Outer Banks in the village of Wanchese on the south end of Roanoke Island.

Reservations

Reservations are required so please book ahead of time to be sure space is available. A credit card is required to hold your reservation.

Connect With Us

(252) 573-0547 708 Harbor Rd Wanchese, NC 27981    

#1 Travelers' Choice

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THE BEST Hatteras Island Dolphin & Whale Watching

Dolphin & whale watching in hatteras island.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for Big Groups
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Family Water Adventures

2. Miss Hatteras

3. Tradition Fishing

4. Countrytime Coastal

What travellers are saying

• Family Water Adventures
• Miss Hatteras
• Tradition Fishing

  NAGS  HEAD  DOLPHIN  WATCH  TOURS

THREE   LOCATIONS !!

click the button above to book online or call (252)441-4124 or toll free at (877)FLY-THIS

Private Charters are available so call for pricing

" Abo ut our tours"

                                                             , j oin us on a unique eco-tour to search for wild atlantic bottlenose dolphins and view the wildlife of the outer banks. biologists run these dolphin tours as part of their research on these beloved aquatic animals, so you know this will be an interesting trip. passengers will be able to see how researchers with the outer banks center for dolphin research , a nonprofit organization, conduct their research and hear about some of the discoveries from more than a decade of studies and monitoring. some of the hundreds of atlantic bottlenose dolphins in the area show up so frequently they’ve even been given names, like “rake,” “scarlet,” and “onion.” onion was first identified in beaufort, north carolina almost 20 years ago, and he has been sighted there almost every winter since. it has been discovered that nags head is his summer home, along with an extensive family of more than 100 members. in his early years, onion had an unfortunate encounter with a boat propeller and his damaged fin has made him one of the most easily recognized dolphins around. .

Conducted on a 40-foot covered pontoon boat in the Roanoke Sound, the trip takes one and a half to two hours. Along the way, researchers will talk about their work and share their discoveries from their ongoing study. While the boat is moving, dolphins will be playing in their natural habitat alongside the vessel. Passengers will also learn about the pelicans, osprey and other birds that congregate in the sounds, as well as the ecology and history of this dynamic area. The Outer Banks is an ideal place to take a dolphin boat trip to learn even more about these miraculous creatures. These excursions will get you close enough to safely connect with these incredible animals and to experience them in the wild, in a world where humans are visitors and the bottlenose dolphin is happily at home. A great trip for families and people of all ages!

The Dolphin Watch Tours are the perfect outing for large and small groups and is suitable for people of all ages. For reservations you may reserve by calling (877) 359-8447 or (252) 441-4124, ext. 1 for reservations. The Dolphin Watch Tour is very popular so we encourage you to book well in advance to secure your spot on this wonderful experience.

THREE   LOCATIONS!!

Phoenix –  Located on the Nags Head Causeway // Kitty Hawk Kites/Whalebone Junction

7517 South Virginia Dare Trail on the south side of NC 64 Hwy that connects Nags Head and Roanoke Island.  You will board the Phoenix at the Kitty Hawk Kites Whalebone Watersports site - yellow building with a blue roof.  Also available at this site you can rent kayaks, standup paddleboards and jet skis so make a day of it.  Next door is Fresh Fit Cafe ,  serving breakfast, lunch and great smoothies.

Safari – located in south nags head at the oregon inlet fishing center,                this is our largest boat  the safari is in the oregon inlet fishing center located at 8770 oregon inlet road, nags head, nc  27959, (some mapping programs find us at 98 nc hwy 12, nags head, nc  27959).  this is a full service marina and ships store with snacks, drinks, souvenirs and tackle.  on site are 46 charter boats and "head boat" to meet all your fishing needs.  also, there is a nc fish & wildlife boat ramp for launching your own boat., miss bodie island – located in manteo at the shallowbag bay marina,  you will board the miss bodie island at shallow bag bay marina located at 700  n. bay club drive, manteo, nc  27954,  (between darryl's restaurant and mcdonald's).  park in any non-reserved parking space.  we are at the floating dock in front of the pool and clubhouse area.  for added convenience to our guests, stripers bar and grill is located onsite so you can enjoy a great meal or a cool drink on the waterfront deck before or after your dolphin tour.  don't forget to visit historic downtown manteo while you are here ..

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• Miss Hatteras Sunset & Dolphin Cruises

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Join the Miss Hatteras on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings for the Dolphin and Wildlife Sunset Cruise. Enjoy the sights and sounds, and simply relax and unwind from your day! Have front row seats to the Hatteras Island sunsets while you learn about the wildlife around you. 

Indepth Information and Live Local Updates for the Outer Banks

Captain Johnny’s Dolphin Tours Tours & Prices

Dolphin tour cruises offered by captain johnny's.

Guaranteed Dolphin Watch: Join Captain Jamie Wescott aboard The Captain Johnny for a Guaranteed Dolphin Watch cruise in protected waters (tours do not go into the ocean).  Dolphin tours available from May - October.  Tickets sold in advance by phone with a credit card to guarantee. Please call for current schedule. Times are subject to change with the season.

• Morning Dolphin Watch: 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. ( $32 Adult, $22 Children 12 and younger, $10 Under 18 months)
• Afternoon Dolphin Watch: 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. ( $32 Adult, $22 Children 12 and younger, $10 Under 18 months)
• Sunset Dolphin Watch: Call for times! ( $37 Adult, $27 Children 12 and younger, $10 Under 18 months)

Other Cruises Offered:

• Shrimping-Crabbing Cruise   (Offered by Risky Business Shrimping & Crabbing Charters . Departs from Shallowbag Bay Marina.) 

Private Charters Offered by Captain Johnny's Dolphin Tours

Private Tours, School Field Trips, Family Reunions, Wedding Parties, Memorials for Deceased, Business Get Together, Private Dinner Cruise (bring your own food) -  Reservations Required for all Private Charters.

Year Round: 2 Hour Charter

• $1000 Daytime
• $1400 Sunset Departure time will change with time of sunset.

Morning Dolphin Watch

Afternoon Dolphin Watch

The Sunset Dolphin Watch

Private Charters

Shrimp & Crab Charters

Captain johnny’s dolphin tours.

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Join the Miss Hatteras on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday evenings for the Dolphin and Wildlife Sunset Cruise.  The boat tours local reefs and sandbars as they go in search of the playful dolphin pods that surround Hatteras Island. The tour sets sail from Oden’s Dock, and there’s nothing more fun than seeing dolphins play and jump around the boat.

Enjoy the sights and sounds, and simply relax and unwind from your day! Have front row seats to the Hatteras Island sunsets while you learn about the wildlife around you.

Schedule: 6:30pm – 8pm Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Price: $31/person – children 3 and under are free

The boat can fit 80 people and it fills up fast, so make sure to arrive early to secure your spot!

Book Our Canalfront Rentals Here!

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Get a free outer banks travel guide, take a virtual tour, outer banks water tours.

When you say “Outer Banks,” you’ve said water. Such is life on a chain of barrier islands. The water supports many life forms in our sounds, estuaries, creeks, inlets and ocean, and Outer Banks water tours are a great way to get to the middle of the action. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for life both above and beneath the surface of the water with water tours and activities. Check out a dolphin watching tour or try your hand at a sailing excursion for a few things to do on the OBX. Hundreds of migratory bird paths also take place over the OBX, so be prepared for your “water tour” to have you looking in more directions than just one. Being on the water is relaxing, but it’s also totally invigorating. Try it, you’ll like it!

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a sport fisherman’s paradise. The sheer quantity of angling opportunities makes our waters some of the best in the world. Check out fishing opportunities for the whole family, whether that's inshore along the beach, casting a line from our piers, taking a charter to the sound, or booking a half day trip offshore.

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Official Tourism Authority for Dare County’s Outer Banks 1 Visitors Center Circle, Manteo, NC 27954 Phone: (877) 629-4386

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THE 5 BEST Hatteras Island Tours & Excursions

Hatteras island tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Private Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Outer Banks Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

2. Outer Banks Audio Driving Tour

3. Cape Hatteras National Seashore Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour

4. Highfalutin Hatteras Scavenger Hunt

5. Cape Hatteras Kayak Adventure in Rodanthe

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Pirate City Ghosts

Wright Brothers Carolina Dunes Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Alligator River Kayak Adventure

Manteo Historic Walking Tour

Beginner Hang Gliding Lesson

Gnarly Nags Head Scavenger Hunt

Surf Lessons on the Outer Banks

Jumpmasters OBX Fun Park

Outrageous Ocracoke Scavenger Hunt

OBX Ghost Tours

Hourly Kayak Rental in Whalebone

Kayak Rental on the Outer Banks

Full-Day Private Tour to Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

Sunrise or Sunset Private Tour by Boat

Kooky Kill Devil Hills Scavenger Hunt

Kitty Hawk Maritime Forest Kayak Tour

East Coast USA: Self-Guided Driving & Walking Tour Bundle

Kitty Hawk Hustle Scavenger Hunt

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Outer Banks Kayak Eco-Tours

Stand Up Paddle Board Tours

Coastal Kayak Touring Company

Coastal Kayak Touring Company was founded in 1999 with a passion for kayaking and coastal ecology. Our interest in kayaking was born at Project U.S.E., an outdoor education organization in New Jersey. Through a five day tour we lead for youth at risk, we discovered the Outer Banks as a “paddlers’ paradise”. A year later Coastal Kayak was born.

Since our inception, we have gained the status as the Outer Banks’ premier kayak touring company. We achieved this status through our commitment to service, ecological education and new tour development.

Coastal Kayak Touring Company was named a National Geographic Top 100 America’s Best Adventures .

Coastal Kayak Touring Company is located at the Waterfront Shops in Duck, North Carolina. Come on in and see what we’re all about.

WHY CHOOSE US?

• Premier Touring Company Est. 1999
• Most Diverse Tour Offerings
• Most Experienced Guides
• High Quality Kayaks & Paddleboards

Our Guarantee

Outer banks kayak tours.

Our Outer Banks kayak tours are perfect for all ages and experience. We offer kayak tours in Corolla, Kitty Hawk, Hatteras Island, and the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge…

Coastal Kayak Touring Company was the first to add Stand Up Paddle Board tours here on the Outer Banks. Enjoy a paddle board tour at one of our calm sound side tour locations…

Kayak and SUP Rentals

Coastal Kayak offers on-site kayak and stand up paddle board rentals at our main reservation office at the Duck Waterfront Shops. We have the highest quality SUPs and kayaks in all shapes and sizes.

No Experience Necessary

Our Outer Banks kayak and stand up paddle board tours tours are geared towards first timers and experienced paddlers alike. You should be of moderate fitness and have no serious health risks. If you have any questions about your condition you should first consult your doctor. With that said, this is a sport for just about anyone. Our tours go at a slow pace and take frequent stops to talk about the area and the wildlife. We cater to all ages and people with disabilities. Please let us know if you have any concerns about whether kayaking or stand up paddle boarding is for you or someone in your group.

Our Guides Make The Difference

At Coastal Kayak we pride ourselves in our guides. We recruit and hire the most personable people who share our passion for kayaking and the outdoors. Many of our guides are in school studying or recent graduates of wilderness leadership and environmental education programs. All of our guides enjoy teaching and sharing their passion. Our guides are trained in house in kayak safety, coastal ecology, and local history and have a minimum certification of CPR and first-aid. Most of our guides return for 2 or more years of service providing us with the most professional and experienced guides on the Outer Banks. Meet Our Guides

At Coastal Kayak Touring Company we guarantee your kayaking experience. As a wilderness experience we can’t control the wildlife sightings or the weather, but we do stand behind our professionalism and enthusiasm for our sport of kayaking. If you feel we didn’t do everything in our control to provide you with the best wilderness kayaking experience then your next kayak tour with us is FREE!

High Quality Equipment

Coastal Kayak Touring Company’s kayaks and paddle boards are of the highest quality. Our kayaks come in all shapes and sizes to fit small paddlers on up to 350 lbs. When reserving your tour, please indicate size consideration and we will outfit you with the appropriate kayak.

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Family Water Adventures

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It's Your Day,

Plan It Your Way

Shelling, snorkeling, paddle boarding, Sand dollars, eco tours & light fishing.

Starting at $520 per boat! We have 6 boats available. 

SHELLING IS THE BEST! WE KNOW WHERE TO GO TO FIND THE TREASURES YOU ARE LOOKING FOR! CHECK FOR TIDES BEFORE BOOKING.

DOLPHINS, BIRDS,  SEA TURTLES, HERMIT CRABS, WE WANT YOU TO EXPLORE THEM ALL! 

THE UNDER WATER WORLD IS HERE TO EXPLORE. SNORKELING FOR ALL EXPERIENCE LEVELS! IF YOUVE NEVER TRIED  IT, YOU SHOULD !

CLAMMING AT ITS BEST

IF YOU ENJOY EATING FRESH CLAMS OR ARE JUST ADDICTEDTO FINDING THEM . WE KNOW THE BEST SPOTS TO GO ! CHECK FOR TIDES BEFORE BOOKING.

Guided Family Adventure Trips in Hatteras Island, NC

We take your group to multiple tidal islands along the Cape Hatteras seaside, these islands are constantly changing and providing us with an abundant amout of shells , fish and sealife to see. Sometimes its just nice to be away from the hustle and bustle of life and just relax listening to the waves. Its social distancing at its finest!  It is our goal to make sure everyone in your group has a great time.We offer an array of aventures.We love to snorkel, clam, take a tour around the old village creeks.  We take the kiddos on a hermit crab adventure and take you to find some sea glass. If you've wanted to find your very own shark tooth , we even have a spot to look for those. If you like bird watching, you will be astounded at the variety of birds we can observe, often up close. We can do some fishing, along with just enjoying the luxurious views .No crowds, set itinerary, or chaos. Just your ultimate escape aboard one of our inshore vessels. 

Our friendly captains & crew members are knowledgeable about providing everything you need to fully enjoy your family water adventure vacation. You can bring a cooler for your snacks and beverages. If you want to fish, all bait and tackle are provided, there is no need to get a license, and we have a license to cover everyone. We also provide a bag for your shells and sea treasures.

Call ahead and get your reservation.

COME ON LETS HAVE SOME FUN!

TWO TRIPS DAILY FROM HATTERAS LANDING MARINA 8 AM-12 PM AND 12 PM - 4 PM

7 DAYS A WEEK

6 BOATS AVAILABLE FOR UP TO 36 TOTAL PASSENGERS.

FOR GROUPS LARGER THAN 36, PLEASE CONTACT US.

MUST HAVE A RESERVATION - PLEASE BOOK AS FAR AHEAD AS POSSIBLE TO ENSURE AVAILABILITY.

OUR GOAL IS TO CUSTOMIZE A FUN, AFFORDABLE AND MEMORABLE VACATION EXPERIENCE THAT THE WHOLE FAMILY CAN ENJOY

Plan Your adventure

SHELLING, SNORKELING, FISHING, ECO TOURS,

CLAMMING OR JUST RELAXING WITH THE FAMILY,

ITS YOUR DAY PLAN IT YOUR WAY

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