Go Wild for Dolphin Tours on the Outer Banks

If you've spent any time on the Outer Banks, you already know that this place is a wildlife wonderland. From hundreds of species of birds to wild horses to black bears, there are always incredible opportunities to see wildlife on land and in the sky no matter where you are.

Of course the waters around us are also full of fascinating creatures too, though they are a little more difficult to spot. But one of the most magical residents of our coastal waters, bottlenose dolphin, can be easy to find. You can often catch sight of them from the beach on calm days, their dorsal fins slicing through the surf as they chase baitfish and ride the waves. But if you're ready to see these amazing animals up close and personal with a qualified guide, a guided dolphin tour is definitely the way to go.

Photo: Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research | Facebook

Outer Banks dolphin tours are one of the most memorable experiences you can have here. For starters, you’ll enjoy a relaxing boat ride that’s fun for all ages. With the warm breezes on your skin and the briny scent of salt water in the air, you’ll see a variety of boats on the water, soundside islands, fish camps, marshes and soundside beaches, osprey nests atop channel markers, diving pelicans, wading egrets and herons, lighthouses and so much more. These captained boat rides head into the calm soundside waters (like Roanoke and Pamlico sounds and the west side of Oregon Inlet), where dolphins are known to feed, play and cruise around in pods.

And while nothing in nature is ever guaranteed, you’re pretty much guaranteed to see dolphins on a tour in the prime dolphin-watching season from May through October. The local tour guides are out there every day, and they know where to find the dolphins. Plus, you’ll definitely learn about bottlenose dolphin characteristics and behavior, as part of your tour experience will be to learn about dolphins.

The Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research has identified more than 800 individual dolphins in Roanoke Sound and nearby waters since 2008. The dolphins are identified by the shape of their dorsal fins. Some are such regulars they have names like Scarlet, Rake and Onion. These dolphins are part of the Northern North Carolina Estuarine System Stock, a population that spans from southern Virginia to Beaufort. Thanks to research efforts and photo ID programs, scientists are learning more about their migration, behavior and interactions with humans, all of which helps with dolphin conservation.

When you’re ready to hit the water on a dolphin tour, here are four local operators to try, all of which come with the highest recommendations.

Book early — dolphin tours fill up fast during peak season! Check with each company for availability, reservations and weather updates.

Nags Head Dolphin Watch is affiliated with the Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research, which has catalogued the local dolphins by their fin shapes. Photo: Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research | Facebook

Nags Head Dolphin Watch

This long-running eco-tour is operated in collaboration with the Outer Banks Center for Dolphin Research, so you’re not just cruising, you’re learning! These two-hour tours give you a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat while getting a behind-the-scenes peek into the science of dolphin tracking.

Nags Head Dolphin Watch offers three tour boats in three different locations, but all offer a very similar eco-tour experiences with highly experienced captains.

The Phoenix is docked at Whalebone Watersports, 7517 S Virginia Dare Trail in Nags Head and tours around Roanoke Sound. This location is on the Nags Head-Manteo Causeway, with several restaurants (Fresh Fit Café, Benny Tesoro’s Pizza, Coastal Creamery, Lost Colony Brewery) and other recreational opportunities very close by.

The Safari is at Oregon Inlet Fishing Center, 8770 Oregon Inlet Road, Nags Head, closer to Oregon Inlet and touring Pamlico Sound. At this location pre or post tour, you can walk along the docks to see the charter boats and enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, Sea Chef Dockside Kitchen.

Miss Bodie Island is docked at Shallowbag Bay Club, 700 Marina Drive in Manteo and tours Roanoke Sound. At this marina you’ll find Stripers Grill and Darrell’s Restaurant on site, and it’s not far from Downtown Manteo.

All Nags Head Dolphin Watch Tours are booked through Kitty Hawk Kites. Booking is available here or at (877) 359-8447. 

Photo: Learn about wildlife with the passionate dolphin researchers at Nags Head Dolphin Watch. 

Captain Johnny’s Dolphin Tours 

Now in its 30th season, Captain Johnny’s Dolphin Tours is legendary in Manteo. Captain Jamie Wescott, an 11th-generation Outer Banks watermen, and his crew offer a guaranteed dolphin sighting, and their boat, The Captain Johnny, can host up to 49 passengers. Expect plenty of fun facts along the two-hour cruises, which are held several times a day. Private charters are also available.

Captain Johnny’s Dolphin Tour is docked in Downtown Manteo. Before or after your trip, enjoy the shops, restaurants, attractions and other recreational opportunities in Manteo.

Book your trip here or by calling (252) 473-1475.

Photo: Captain Johnny's Dolphin Tours offers trips in Roanoke Sound.

Paradise Dolphin Cruises

Paradise Dolphin Cruises in Wanchese operates the Kokomo, a 40-foot catamaran that carries 40 passengers and offers a comfortable ride with a canopied top, cushioned seats and a restroom. The boat's location at Safe Harbor Outer Banks offers access to the of Roanoke Sound. Paradise offers two hour cruises. The boat is handicapped accessible and is available for private parties.

Before or after your tour, enjoy a meal or drink at Wanchese Tiki Hut.

Book your trip here or by calling (252) 573-0547.

Photo: All ages love looking for dolphins on Paradise Dolphin Cruises.

Harbor Star Dolphin Tours

Harbor Star offers daytime and sunset tours seven days a week, all departing from Wanchese Marina. You'll enjoy a two-hour ride through the Roanoke aboard their 50-foot powered cruise boat, designed for comfort and unobstructed dolphin viewing. The drive to Wanchese Marina is part of the fun as you get to see the small village of Wanchese along the way. The marina is home to The Landing Grill, a great place to eat by the water.

Book your trip here or call (252) 423-3157.

Photo: Harbor Star Dolphin Tours offers family-friendly trips from Wanchese Marina.

What to Expect on a Dolphin Tour

On any of these tours, you can expect safe boat accommodations with comfortable seating and shade guided by a U.S. Coast Guard certified captain. Bring your own sunscreen, water, snacks and camera. If you have binoculars or a longer lens, bring that as well.

When you encounter a pod of dolphins, the captain will maintain a respectful distance in compliance with state and federal protection laws. You'll have the chance to observe these incredible creatures as they engage in natural behaviors like fishing, feeding, playing and even mothers teaching their young.

The reputable dolphin tours on the Outer Banks are committed to responsible wildlife watching. That means keeping a safe distance, avoiding disturbing the animals and letting dolphins be wild and free in their natural habitat. Feeding the dolphins or swimming with the dolphins is definitely not allowed.

And that’s part of what makes these tours so special. You’re not just out on the water snapping pics — you’re witnessing nature in action. And maybe, just maybe, you'll lock eyes with a curious dolphin lifting its head above the surface to check you out.