Hilton Head Shrimp Trawling Expedition Aboard the Tammy Jane
Board the Tammy Jane at Harbour Town for a two-hour shrimp trawl that mixes hands-on fishing with ecology lessons about the Lowcountry marshes. Perfect for families and curious travelers, the cruise explains the shrimp fishery, local wildlife and why the marsh matters.
The Experience
Before You Go
Pay the Sea Pines gate fee
Bring $9 cash per vehicle for Sea Pines Resort entry; the pass is valid all day so allow extra time to explore before or after your cruise.
Guard against sun and spray
Apply reef-safe sunscreen and wear a brimmed hat—the Tammy Jane is open-air with some shaded seating.
Bring motion-sickness remedies
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication or use wrist bands before departure to stay comfortable during the trawl.
Closed-toe shoes recommended
Non-slip, closed-toe shoes make moving on deck and during catch-sorting safer for adults and kids.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Walk the Harbour Town boardwalk after your cruise for close-up views of yacht basins and local shops.
- •Explore nearby Sea Pines Forest Preserve trails—short boardwalks and ponds with bird blinds for quiet wildlife viewing.
Wildlife
- •Royal terns and laughing gulls commonly follow trawls.
- •Wading birds such as snowy egrets and great blue herons frequent the marsh edges.
Conservation Note
Local operators emphasize responsible handling and education; the marshes are managed for habitat resilience and fisheries sustainability, and visitors are encouraged to use reef-safe products and limit disturbance.
Shrimping is a core part of Hilton Head’s commercial history; the Lowcountry’s fisheries and boatbuilding communities shaped local livelihoods over the 19th and 20th centuries.
What to Bring
Sunscreen (reef-safe)Essential
Protects against strong sun reflection off the water during the open-air cruise.
Motion-sickness medication or wrist bands
Helps prevent nausea on choppy days or for passengers sensitive to movement.
Closed-toe, non-slip shoesEssential
Provides traction and safety on wet deck surfaces while sorting catch.
Light windbreaker
Useful in early mornings or breezy conditions when temperatures are cooler on the water.
Common Questions
Where does the tour depart from?
All excursions depart from Harbour Town Yacht Basin in Sea Pines Resort; check-in is at the Vagabond Cruise reservation office next to the Harbour Town Lighthouse.
Can I take home shrimp if you catch them?
If shrimp are caught, the crew may package some for guests to take home, but this is not guaranteed and depends on the catch and regulations.
Is this activity suitable for children?
Yes—this is family-friendly and suitable for all ages; children often enjoy helping sort the catch under crew supervision.
What about bad weather or cancellations?
Tours may be canceled for bad weather or insufficient passengers; cancel at least 24 hours before departure for a full refund per the operator’s policy.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves standing and light stepping on and off the boat.
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