A common question we hear in Hilton Head is "Can I swim with dolphins?"

The short answer "No" as far as true wild dolphins are concerned. Please read this *entire* page to understand what that means.

Some other resort destinations offer programs for people to swim with a dolphin in a controlled environment. The Hilton Head Island area does not offer any such programs for artificial interaction and swimming with dolphin. While we understand the need and value for rehabilitation of sick or injured animals, some of these "swim with dolphin" programs seem to push the line of exploitation. It can be said, however, that there is a value in creating close interactive experiences between humans and dolphin, or any other intelligent species, for that matter. If operated in a safe and limited manner with the ultimate respect and concern for the well-being of the dolphin, perhaps these "swim with dolphin" programs are beneficial.

At Live Oac, we engage in respectfully watching dolphin in their natural environment, and educating people about these fascinating creatures. We do not swim with dolphin, purposefully, and only choose to observe natural wild dolphin in an appropriate manner. From a scientific perspective, we realize that the "observer influences the observed" in every situation. We believe respectful observation results in a great benefit for the education and experience of the observer and perhaps even the observed. In our years of experience guiding dolphin tours in Hilton Head Island it is obvious that people are positively affected by such interaction, and this increases a respect for dolphin and their environment which likely leads to positive behavioral changes in the future which ultimately benefit the dolphin. We work to educate people on the proper behavior with and around wild free-swimming dolphin.

Intentionally swimming with wild dolphin is illegal and not beneficial for dolphin. It could even be dangerous for a human to engage in close interaction in the water. However, we do occasionally get surprised by a wild dolphin that approaches us while we are already in the water. These wonderful moments are a rare treat and always a surprise. Imagine floating in the water, getting ready to take off on waterskis when a dolphin breaks the surface beside you. It seems these intelligent creatures are as curious of us as we are of them, and they'll sometimes come close to investigate this strange thing (you) they see in their creek.

Perhaps you'll have this special opportunity! Otherwise, lets keep both humans and dolphins safe, by observing them appropriately from a boat, and letting them choose if, when, and how to engage us.