May River Excursions

With 32 miles of waterfront, Palmetto Bluff contains a plethora of creeks, waterways, and unknown territories waiting to be explored. Led by interpretive naturalist guides and U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captains, we offer several opportunities to learn about the nature and environment here at Palmetto Bluff.

Immerse yourself in the history, natural beauty, and ecology that is Palmetto Bluff with one of these water excursions on the beautiful May River.

Grace
Gather your family and friends for an unforgettable cruise aboard the restored 60-foot antique motor yacht, Grace. Built in 1913, Grace is one of the last remaining pre-World War I gas-powered yachts. Named in honor of R.T. Wilson’s sister, Grace Vanderbilt, this vessel has been completely restored (and still looks stellar after a century!). Grace is available for tours and private charter throughout the year.

Dolphin Discovery Tour
A U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain and experienced interpretive naturalist guide will lead this powerboat-based nature “hike” through the Lowcountry estuaries. Discover hidden creeks and undeveloped islands and experience dolphins and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Cover a wide area on this great nature tour with a fantastic opportunity to encounter our local Atlantic bottlenose dolphin.

Full Tide Discovery Tour
Explore the backwaters, salt marsh creeks, and remote islands that surround Palmetto Bluff. This excursion is scheduled around optimal tides and is a fantastic trip for photographers and nature lovers.

Full Moon Kayak Tour
A beautiful and serene nature tour in the moonlight along the pristine May River. No kayak experience is necessary.

Kayak Nature Tour
Experience the beauty of the South Carolina Lowcountry salt marsh estuaries with a close-up view from the seat of a kayak. A brief paddling clinic will introduce you to the basics of kayaking and get you comfortable in the boat. Then, depart on the May River to explore waterways teeming with wildlife. Herons, osprey, and other birds are abundant, and you may have the opportunity to see our local Atlantic bottlenose dolphin. Your guide will discuss the organisms and processes that surround you. This excursion is a relaxed and informative journey that moves at your pace and provides a good introduction to kayaking. No experience is necessary for this laid-back excursion.

Outback Tour
The Outback Tour combines boating and kayaking for a memorableLowcountry experience. Begin your adventure with a boat cruise from the Inn’s dock on the May River. Your captain will choose from several scenic routes through the salt marsh en route to a remote kayak outpost on Page Island. After a brief paddling clinic to get you set up and comfortable in the kayak, you will explore nearby creeks that are as pristine as you’ll find in the entire Lowcountry. You’ll paddle the same creeks traveled by the Native Americans who inhabited these islands hundreds of years ago.

Family Ski Day
Cruise from Palmetto Bluff back to our favorite ski grounds and learn how to water-ski, wakeboard, or kneeboard…or just go tubing on this private trip. No experience needed. Instruction and equipment is provided for all skill levels.

Ultimate Lowcountry Day
Designed for the family or small group interested in experiencing an authentic coastal Carolina day. Choose from a menu of options that can include extensive backwater boating, kayaking, fishing, beachcombing, crabbing, shrimping, gaming, tubing, and stops in Dafuskie Island and Savannah. Design a custom outing for a truly unique experience and a day full of discovery. Day includes boat transportation, equipment, snacks and refreshments, a U.S. Coast Guard licensed captain and a guide.

Lagoon Cruises
Cruise along the lagoon waterway and experience the spectacular wildlife of Palmetto Bluff. View wood storks, herons, and egrets, and a variety of birds that thrive along the edges and islands in the lagoon while leisurely riding in one of our electric charters. Captain guided tours are offered daily to learn more about the local wildlife.

Beachcombing Cruise
This boat cruise incorporates our Dolphin Discovery tour with the bonus of taking the boat to a remote sand bar to relax, play, or search for shells, sand dollars, crabs, starfish, and the occasional shark tooth.

Teen Tube Excursion
Take a thrilling ride on the Big Tube weaving through the May River. Available for ages 11 and older.

Reservations are required for all excursions. Please contact Outside Palmetto Bluff in Wilson Landing for information, fees, and reservations by calling 843.706.2478.