top of page
Soft Blue Sky
SCH&M-HHI-horiz-Logo-2024bold.png

Latest news from Shelter Cove

Explore Shelter Cove

Captain Kidd Boat

Dolphin Seafari

Tim and Beth, owners of Dolphin Seafari, moved to Hilton Head in 1996 and have a lifelong passion for island life. Since 2008, they’ve shared their love of the water through unforgettable dolphin tours. Join them to explore Hilton Head and experience the Lowcountry like never before.

Little boy with crab

Your Next Great Catch Starts with Captain Kidd Sport Crabbing

Nets in the water, laughter on deck, and just enough legend to keep things interesting

Sport crabbing with Captain Kidd is a hands-on, guided experience that blends Lowcountry tradition with interactive fun on the water. After a short narrated cruise through Hilton Head’s scenic tidal creeks, the boat anchors in calm, shallow marshes where guests learn to catch blue crabs using the traditional Gullah method—simple lines baited with chicken rather than hooks. Each person gets their own gear, making it easy for beginners and families to participate, and the catch-and-release format keeps the experience both sustainable and approachable.

What sets the experience apart is how it combines activity, education, and a bit of friendly competition. As you crab, the crew shares insights about local wildlife and the surrounding ecosystem, often pointing out dolphins, birds, and other marine life along the way. The atmosphere is relaxed but engaging, with a playful challenge to see who can catch the most crabs before time runs out—often earning a prize and bragging rights. It’s equal parts coastal adventure and cultural tradition, offering a deeper connection to the waterways that define the Hilton Head Lowcountry.

People enjoying Sport Crabbing Adventure

Sport Crabbing Adventure

Available through October

Sport Crabbing Adventure aboard the Captain Kidd just might be the most exciting, exhilarating, and entertaining thing you do on vacation!

After a short cruise from Shelter Cove Harbour (narrated by your captain so you don’t miss any sights along the way), the Captain Kidd anchors up in the shallow saltwater marshes of Hilton Head Island. The crabby crew will offer a brief demonstration on how to catch the little critters. Each passenger is supplied with their own crabbing equipment and whoever catches the most crabs by the time the bell rings wins the official (and much coveted) t-shirt!

1 Hour 45 Minutes

Pricing from $39 for adults, $39 for children (ages 4 -12) and $10 for children 3 & under.

Book Now
Fireworks Sport Crabbing Adventure

Fireworks Sport Crabbing Adventure

Available Tuesday nights June - August

Enjoy a 2 hour sport crabbing adventure aboard the Captain Kidd. After a short cruise from Shelter Cove Marina, the Captain Kidd anchors up in the shallow saltwater marshes of Hilton Head. The crew will offer a brief demonstration on how to catch the little critters and after crabbing, we will watch the fireworks from the water!

2 Hours

Prices from $55 for adults and children 4-12 & $10 for children 3 and under.

Book Now

Tips, Stories, and Local Insights

Captain Kidd Adventures

Looking for more fun on the water?

Other featured water activities at Shelter Cove Harbour and Marina

Pontoon Boats at marina

Hilton Head Boat Rentals

When it comes to water adventure Shelter Cove Marina is the place to be! Rent a pontoon boatkayak or paddleboard.

Mn with fish he just caught

Fishing Charters

Enjoy the ultimate fishing experience at Shelter Cove Marina! Inshore, nearshore and offshore fishing in Hilton Head Island, SC is some of the best fishing in the world!

2 people on catamaran boat going fast

Cruises & Nature Tours

Explore the waterways on a 2-person catamaran boat, discover more with a nature dolphin tour or just sit bac and relax on a fireworks cruise. There's so much to do on the water at Shelter Cove Marina.

bottom of page