Nags Head Dolphin Watch – Dolphin Tours

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Call 1-877-359-8447 to Reserve over the phone.

Price

$18 - $32 (No Hidden Fees)

Daytime Trip Pricing
  • Adult - $32
  • Child (12 & Under) - $18 per Child
  • Infant (1 & Under) - $1 per infant
Sunset Trip Pricing
  • Adult - $37
  • Child (12 & Under) - $22 per Child
  • Infant (1 & Under) - $1 per infant

LIMITED TIME ONLY: Book a Dolphin Tour & receive a Outer Banks Walking History Tour for 50% OFF!

Make it an experience! Receive a 10% off discount at the local marina restaurant when you book a Dolphin Tour with us this summer! Available at all locations!


🐬 Dolphin Tours on the Outer Banks

The Original. The Best Price. The Real Experts.

Set sail with the original Dolphin Tour of the Outer Banks — trusted for over 25 years by locals and visitors alike. Our tours are more than just a boat ride — they’re a one-of-a-kind experience led by passionate dolphin researchers  who know the OBX dolphin population better than anyone else.

Whether you’re searching for playful Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, taking in stunning views of the sound, or learning fascinating facts about our local marine life, this is the tour that delivers unforgettable moments — for families, couples, and nature lovers of all ages.

Why Choose Us?

  • The original Dolphin Tour on the Outer Banks
  • Best price guaranteed – no hidden booking fees, ever
  • Onboard dolphin researchers and expert guides
  • Spacious, family-friendly vessels with shaded seating
  • Convenient departure points in Nags Head & Manteo

Come for the dolphins. Stay for the memories. 💙
📅 Book your tour today and discover why Kitty Hawk Kites remains the Outer Banks’ most trusted name in adventure.


About the Dolphins 🐬

Some of the hundreds of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in the area show up so frequently they’ve even been given names, like “Rake,” “Scarlet,” and “Onion.” Onion was first identified in Beaufort, North Carolina almost 20 years ago, and he has been sighted there almost every winter since. Apparently, Nags Head is his summer home, along with an extensive family of more than 100 members. When he was young, Onion had an unfortunate encounter with a boat propeller and his damaged fin has made him one of the most easily recognized dolphins around.


About the Vessels: 🛥️

The Nags Head Dolphin Watch conducts its tours in the Roanoke Sound in between Nags Head and Manteo. The Nags Head Dolphin Watch operates two separate vessels conducting the same tour to see the same dolphin. You can have virtually the same experience aboard each boat, they simply depart from slightly different locations. The different locations are about a 5-7 minute drive apart from each other.

The Phoenix
Docks at Whalebone Watersports
7517 S Virginia Dare Trail, Nags Head, NC 27959

The Safari
Docks at Oregon Inlet Fishing Center
8770 Oregon Inlet Rd, Nags Head, NC 27959

The Miss Bodie Island
Docks at Shallowbag Bay Club
700 Marina Dr, Manteo, NC 27954


🐬 Go Behind the Scenes of Our Dolphin Tours!
Curious what it’s like out on the water? Discover the magic in “The Dolphin Experience” — a firsthand account by writer Brian Tress.
👉 [Read the full article]


💸 Dolphin Tour Discounts All Summer

Searching for Dolphin Tour discounts in OBX?
📞 Call 252-441-4124 and mention this offer for:
$5 OFF Sunday–Tuesday bookings when reserved in advance!

What should I wear?

That will depend on the current weather conditions but we recommend bringing a light rain jacket or wind breaker. Depending on the conditions there may be ocean spray.


What should I bring?

Cameras are encouraged! We recommend bringing sunscreen, sunglasses and plenty of water! You are welcome to bring snacks for yourself but for their own safety and conservation it is strictly prohibited to feed the wild dolphin.


Is there an age limit?

No, we find that everyone alike, young and old find joy in our educational entertaining tours.


Is the tour pet friendly?

No, we can not permit pets to attend this tour, no matter the size!


Is there a better time to see the dolphin?

No! We are lucky in the Outer Banks. Through the spring, summer, and autumn months we are able to see them on just about every trip!


Is there a better location to leave from?

There isn’t! Our captains work together to track them during our tours. If there is a pod in the area captains will alert eachother.


Are the boats covered?

Yes, all of our boats are covered to provide shade during those sunny mid day trips!


Accessibility Statement:

We are committed to making our activities as accessible as possible. While some activities may have limitations, we’re happy to work with you to explore accommodations. For assistance or questions, please contact us at (252) 441-4124.

 

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