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Murrells Inlet Shelling & Bird Watching Eco Cruise in South Carolina

4079 US 17 Business • Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

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The Explorer at Murells Inlet parked at the dock for tourists to climb on board.

The empty metal benches of The Explorer cruise boat at Murells Inlet Saltwater Marsh Bird Watching & Eco Excursion.

A bird with large wings and a long neck landing on a rocky shore with tall green grass on it.

A Pelican splashing gently as it lands in calm water with grass in the background.

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Overview

Explore the stunning saltwater marsh estuary of Murrells Inlet on a two-hour Myrtle Beach shelling and bird watching tour. Led by a naturalist guide, observe native and migratory birds and sea life. Join a live demonstration featuring a touch tank. Enjoy a walkabout on a local beach to explore dunes and search for shells and treasures along the shoreline.

up to 2 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

Enjoy a 2-hour bird-watching and shelling tour that explores Murrells Inlet's saltwater marsh estuary.
Tour takes place aboard The Explorer, a 54′ vessel certified by the United States Coast Guard, which includes a bathroom for convenience.
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before scheduled departure to allow time for parking, check-in, bathroom use, and boarding.
Complimentary parking is available in the gravel lot across the street from the ship’s store.
Check in at the ship's store located in the front parking lot of Dead Dog Saloon.
Light snacks and drinks, including alcohol, are available for sale at the onboard snack bar.
All ages are welcome to participate in this educational and engaging experience.
Tour sails through a light rain or drizzle. Wear weather-appropriate clothing and flat-soled shoes.

Description

Experience Murrells Inlet and its picturesque saltwater marsh estuary on an exciting eco cruise on a spacious catamaran. Glide along its tranquil waters and witness the coastal area's natural beauty and wildlife in Georgetown County, South Carolina.

Located and departing approximately 12 miles south of Myrtle Beach International Airport and five miles north of Brookgreen Gardens, SC, guests will embark on a captivating bird-watching and marine life expedition aboard The Explorer, a United States Coast Guard-certified and inspected vessel with ample seating and unobstructed views of the surrounding marshlands.

Guests can also take advantage of onboard amenities, including a restroom and snack bar offering refreshing drinks and light snacks for purchase, allowing everyone to fully immerse themselves in nature's beauty while cruising comfortably on The Explorer.

Led by a knowledgeable naturalist guide, participate in a live demonstration that includes local crabs and pulling a sample dredge from the bottom of the creek bed, directly into a touch tank for up-close inspection. This exciting excursion also includes a shelling walkabout. Upon docking at a local beach, guests can explore the scenic shore and dune areas and enjoy searching for shells and other treasures along the shoreline.

Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast of birds and underwater wildlife or simply curious about the natural wonders of Murrells Inlet, the eco tour offers a delightful and educational experience suitable for all ages. Don't miss this remarkable adventure that blends relaxation, exploration, and appreciation of the vibrant biodiversity along the South Carolina coast. Book now!

Promotional Images (12)

Channing with a young girl on his lap holding up a blue crab onboard the Explorer Saltwater Marsh.

Aerial view looking down on Murrells Inlet Garden City on a sunny day.

The Captain wearing a blue shirt holding a jellyfish for tourists to look at on the Murrells Inlet Bird Watching Eco Tour.

A man taking photos on the Explorer at Murrells Inlet Bird Watching Eco Tour

Tourists walking off of The Explorer cruise boat on the Murrells Inlet Bird Watching Eco Tour.

Murrells Inlet Shelling & Bird Watching Eco Cruise Reviews

Based on 397 reviews

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BeccaEddy0523

New Concord, Ohio

"Worth every penny!"

Reviewed May 29, 2024

I took my 10 and 7 year old sons and we had an AWESOME time!!! I’ve already recommended it to my sister who is vacationing in Myrtle in a week! Shout out to the crew for making this a memorable time for me and my little guys!

976christinal

Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana

"Argh! A Pirate's Life is Great!"

Reviewed July 13, 2023

This is nothing short of a blast. We took our two grandchildren, 4 and 6. They were in awe and busy the entire time in the imaginary world created by Pirate Adventures. You do get hit with a lot of extra expenses, though the eye patch and monocular were reasonably priced. There is an optional $20 photo at the end - we bought it because the experience was awesome.

CherylL919

McHenry, Illinois

"Multigenerational fun!"

Reviewed June 22, 2023

Great fun! We are traveling as a multigenerational family. The grandparents enjoyed the pirate boat ride/skit as much as the children. Great interactive pirate adventure with a treasure map and water cannons. The only compliant is not all the children got to shoot the water cannons due to other children not sharing. Our advice would be have the pirate leader assign children to the cannons then switch them out.

Compass64823198747

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

"Pirate Trip"

Reviewed June 06, 2023

My grandkids loved the ride. I do think the mask on pirate Pete is a little scary for kids. I’d love to see him just dressed as a pirate. Captain Crisp and the young lady were entertaining!

Frizank14

Saint Charles, Illinois

"Young pirates’ dream cruise"

Reviewed April 18, 2023

My kids (twins age 5, and a 7yo) loved this interactive pirate adventure! They got to sword fight, squirt water guns, swab the deck, and of course shoot water cannons. My 5 yos truly believed we fought Black Beard and found the buried treasure. The actor pirates were fun, funny, and great with the kids.

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Murrells Inlet Shelling & Bird Watching Eco Cruise is located at 4079 US 17 Business • Murrells Inlet, SC 29576

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Frequently Asked Questions about Murrells Inlet Shelling & Bird Watching Eco Cruise

Where does the shelling and bird watching eco cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from the Visit Murrells Inlet ship's store and ticket booth, located next to the big red chair by the front stairs of the Dead Dog Saloon restaurant on the parking lot side in Murrells Inlet, Georgetown County. It is approximately 10-12 miles south of Myrtle Beach International Airport and five miles north of Brookgreen Gardens.

Is parking provided?

Yes, absolutely! Guests can enjoy complimentary parking located in the gravel lot across the street from the ship's store.

What is the duration of the eco cruise?

The eco cruise lasts approximately two hours.

Are there any age restrictions for the tour?

The tour is suitable for all ages!

What will I experience during the tour?

You'll observe local wildlife, including birds and underwater creatures, and participate in a live demonstration. There is a touch tank where you can safely observe and touch sea life.

Who will guide the tour?

A naturalist will guide the tour, providing expert commentary on the wildlife and ecosystem.

Can I take pictures?

Yes, definitely! Take as many pictures as you like to capture the fun and share your amazing experience with your friends and family.

What should I bring on the tour?

It's recommended to bring a camera or smartphone for pictures, binoculars for bird watching, sunscreen, cash for purchasing snacks or drinks and crew gratuity, and a valid photo ID if you plan to buy alcohol onboard.

Are there any items prohibited on the tour?

Yes. Guests are not allowed to bring food, drinks, coolers, and large items like luggage on board due to limited storage space.

What should I wear?

Please dress appropriately for the temperature, wind, and weather conditions. Remember that the water is typically cooler than the land. The cruise operates in light rain or drizzle, so plan accordingly. Wear flat-soled shoes and avoid heels or platforms for comfort and safety.

Will I experience seasickness?

The cruise remains within the tranquil and protected waters of Murrells Inlet, so there is no possibility of experiencing seasickness. However, everyone is different, and if you are prone to seasickness, please remember to bring your medication and take it before boarding.