Ever been sitting on the beach, staring out at the horizon, and suddenly see a dorsal fin break the surface? Chances are, you spotted a dolphin. These incredibly intelligent mammals are always evolving, constantly learning new ways to adapt to their environment. Dolphins are extremely playful and social. These goofy residents are friendly toward people, and Charleston locals love to see them around. Ever heard the expression “sleep with one eye open”? Well, this phrase fits dolphins perfectly because they shut down one side of their brain at a time while sleeping. This allows them to remain conscious and breathe while the other half rests- leaving one eye open. Here in the Lowcountry of South Carolina, our bottlenose dolphins are known for a rare and fascinating hunting technique called strand feeding-where they herd fish towards the shore and briefly beach themselves to catch the pray. Lately, researchers have observed a new behavior in our dolphins called “shipside feeding.” In the Charleston Harbor, dolphins have been using the sides of commercial shipping vessels to trap fish—just like they do with the shoreline. Researchers noted that it’s not just adult dolphins practicing this feeding technique. Mothers and their young have been spotted together, suggesting this innovative behavior might be passed down to future generations. Want to check out the dolphins for yourself? The best times to spot dolphins in the Charleston Harbor are early mornings and evenings, typically during the warmer months from May through September. In the early morning, just after sunrise, the water is usually calm and quiet, making it easier to spot the dolphins as they begin their day hunting and socializing.
At Sandlapper, our fleet offers a variety of tours to fit your schedule! One favorite is the Nature/ Harbor Cruise—a perfect way to spot playful dolphins in the historic Charleston Harbor while taking in the unforgettable Lowcountry scenery. Nature tours are ideal for catching dolphins during the hours of feeding, playing, and putting on a show. The historic background also makes for beautiful viewing and photo opportunities. Click here to plan your tour today to encounter these playful locals!
