Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise Tour in Beaufort

If you’re looking for an engaging way to explore Beaufort, South Carolina, this Land & Sea tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, wildlife, and scenic beauty—all in less than three hours. Combining a guided bus tour with a dolphin cruise, it’s tailored for curious travelers eager to learn about the area’s past while enjoying some time on the water.

What really stands out is the knowledgeable guides—Heather, in particular, earns high praise for her depth of knowledge and spirited storytelling. Plus, the chance to see playful dolphins and soaring bald eagles makes this experience fun for families and wildlife lovers alike.

One thing to consider is the schedule: the boat cruise only runs on certain days, specifically Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, which could affect your planning. Still, for the price of around $67 per person, this tour offers quite a bit of value, especially given its rich mix of history and nature.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy a rundown of Beaufort’s past, love wildlife viewing, or are simply looking for a relaxing, family-friendly outing that combines education with scenic views.

Key Points

• Balanced Land & Water Experience: Combines a guided bus tour with a dolphin cruise, offering diverse perspectives of Beaufort.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Heather are praised for their in-depth knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• Wildlife & Scenery: Expect to see dolphins, bald eagles, and ospreys along with historic landmarks.
• Flexible Schedule: Land tour at 10 am or 12:30 pm; boat cruise on specific days (Thursday, Saturday, Sunday).
• Value for Money: At approximately $67, you get nearly three hours of guided exploration, making it a good deal.
• Family-Friendly: The tour is suitable for all ages and provides a cool, relaxing break from land-based sightseeing.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Kelly Tours Beaufort at Waterfront Park

The tour kicks off at the Kelly Tours office, located conveniently at the Beaufort Marina in Waterfront Park. From here, the first part of the adventure is the 75-minute guided bus tour. This bus ride is not just a drive through the city; it’s an educational journey through over 300 years of Beaufort’s history. The guides, especially Heather, bring the story to life with detailed insights into the Spanish, French, and English influences that shaped the city.

Traveling in an air-conditioned bus makes the experience comfortable, even on a warm day. As you pass by sweeping antebellum homes, scenic views, and historic churches, you’ll learn about notable sites like Old Point, the National Cemetery, and the Bluff. Several film locations, such as those used in Forrest Gump, The Prince of Tides, and The Big Chill, also feature in the narrative, giving the tour a fun pop-culture twist.

The reviews highlight Heather’s spirited and articulate narration, which keeps the history engaging and accessible. One reviewer even mentioned that the tour ran over by half an hour, which they appreciated because of the depth of information.

The Break: Leisure Time at Waterfront Park

After the bus tour, you’re encouraged to take a break—grab lunch at one of the local eateries or simply stroll around Waterfront Park. This flexibility allows for a relaxed transition to the next part of your adventure.

The Waterway: 90-minute Dolphin & Wildlife Boat Cruise

The second segment is the boat cruise, provided by Coastal Expeditions. This 90-minute water journey offers a chance to see playful dolphins and spot bald eagles and ospreys nesting along the waterways.

The cruise is described as family-friendly and relaxing, making it a great way to cool off after the land tour. The captain and crew are known for their storytelling—sharing tales of Native Americans, Spanish explorers, French settlers, and English colonizers, all while keeping an eye out for wildlife.

A key highlight from reviews is the dolphins’ antics, which seem to put on a small show for passengers. One reviewer noted that even on a gloomy day, the boat atmosphere was lively and enjoyable, thanks to the captain’s skillful maneuvering and the crew’s enthusiasm.

Scheduling and Practicalities

Since the boat only departs on specific days—Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday—it’s essential to plan your day accordingly. A call from a Kelly associate will clarify the schedule, ensuring you don’t miss out. The tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers, making it intimate enough for personalized attention but still lively.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour price of $67.41 per person covers all fees and taxes, offering a good-value package for nearly three hours of guided exploration. Gratuities and parking are extras, so budget accordingly.

The tour is accessible for travelers with moderate physical fitness and allows service animals—a thoughtful touch for visitors with special needs.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Multiple reviewers mention the quality of the guides, with Heather frequently singled out for her depth of knowledge and spirited delivery. One reviewer called her “a great tour guide who really knows her subject matter,” highlighting how much engaging storytelling adds to the experience.

The scenic views and wildlife sightings receive consistent praise. A reviewer said, “The dolphins put on a show,” and others noted the bald eagles nesting nearby, making the boat cruise much more than just a scenic ride.

The value is another common theme. At just over $67, many feel that the tour provides excellent bang for your buck, especially considering the depth of storytelling and wildlife encounters. One review summed it up as “well worth the time and cost.”

However, the reviews also point out some scheduling nuances. A reviewer was disappointed to find out that their boat tour was only available at 11 am rather than the 3 pm they expected, emphasizing the importance of confirming days and times beforehand.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Land Tour: Exploring Historic Beaufort

The bus tour’s primary strength lies in its rundown of Beaufort’s history. You’ll explore the National Historic Landmark District, which features elegant antebellum homes, historic churches, and scenic vistas. The guide’s insights into Beaufort’s past—from Spanish explorers to the Union occupation—give a nuanced understanding of the city’s layered history.

Special attention is paid to film locations, which add a fun layer for movie buffs. The Old Point area and the National Cemetery are notable stops that give a sense of the city’s historic significance and solemn beauty.

Reviewers particularly appreciated Heather’s storytelling, noting she was articulate and spirited, which made the history more memorable. The 75-minute duration feels just right—enough to cover the major sights without feeling rushed.

Water Tour: Dolphin & Wildlife Cruise

The boat cruise takes you along the waterways, offering unparalleled views of dolphins, birdlife, and the lush shoreline. Expect to see bottlenose dolphins performing playful leaps and perhaps even some mother-and-calves pairs. The crew’s stories about the native wildlife and the area’s ecological significance add depth to the experience.

One reviewer felt that the dolphins put on a show, making the cruise a highlight of their trip. The 90-minute cruise is leisurely, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and relax. It’s a cool break from the land-based sightseeing, especially on a warm day.

Practical Tips

• Book at least 15 days in advance as the tour is popular.
• Confirm the boat schedule if you’re planning to do the boat cruise on a specific day.
• Wear comfortable clothing and bring sunscreen and binoculars if you want a closer look at wildlife.
• Arrive early for the bus tour to maximize your sightseeing time.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided combo tour is ideal for history buffs, families, and wildlife enthusiasts. It offers a well-rounded snapshot of Beaufort, making it suitable for first-time visitors or those wanting a gentle, educational outing.

If you’re traveling with kids, the dolphin cruise will likely be a hit, while history lovers will appreciate the detailed storytelling and scenic landmarks.

It’s also a good choice if you prefer a small group setting—the max of 20 travelers ensures a more personal experience.

The Sum Up

This Guided Historical Bus and Boat Cruise in Beaufort provides a thoughtfully crafted way to experience the city’s past and natural beauty in just under three hours. The knowledgeable guides, especially Heather, turn history into a lively story, and the wildlife sightings add a fun, interactive element.

With a price tag around $67, it offers great value—a package of educational, scenic, and wildlife experiences rolled into one manageable tour. The combination of land and water makes it particularly appealing for those who want a rundown without the hassle of arranging multiple outings.

Most importantly, the tour’s family-friendly nature and engaging storytelling make it suitable for a wide range of travelers—whether your interest lies in history, wildlife, or simply enjoying beautiful views.

While scheduling considerations around the boat cruise are worth noting, this experience remains a dependable option for anyone seeking a relaxed, informative, and scenic way to explore Beaufort.

FAQ

Is the boat cruise available every day?
No, the boat tour only departs on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, so check your dates carefully.

How long does the entire tour last?
The combined land and water experience lasts approximately 2 hours 45 minutes.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Kelly Tours Beaufort, located at the Waterfront Park marina at 1006 Bay St.

Are there any physical fitness requirements?
The tour is suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness; walking around Waterfront Park or on the bus is involved.

How much should I tip guides or crew?
Tips are not included in the price and are appreciated for guides and crew, but specific amounts are at your discretion.

Can I bring my service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

This guided combo tour offers a balanced and engaging way to see Beaufort, blending storytelling, scenic views, and wildlife sightings—all at a reasonable price. Whether you’re a history lover, wildlife watcher, or family seeking a relaxed day out, this experience deserves a spot on your itinerary.