Dozens of Dolphins Surround Jet Skiers Off South Carolina Coast
A couple on a jet ski off Waties Island, South Carolina, had a remarkable experience when dozens of dolphins surrounded them, with one leaping from the water so close that the jet ski had to maneuver to avoid a collision.
Nashville, TN, September 1, 2026 —
A couple enjoying a jet ski excursion off the coast of Waties Island, South Carolina, encountered an extraordinary wildlife spectacle recently when dozens of dolphins congregated around their watercraft. The close encounter involved a dramatic moment where one dolphin leaped from the water at close proximity to the jet ski, necessitating a quick maneuver by the riders to ensure safety.
The incident occurred while the couple was operating their jet ski in the waters near Waties Island. Eyewitnesses, identified as the couple on the jet ski, reported that a large pod of dolphins appeared and surrounded their vehicle. This congregation of marine mammals created a remarkable scene, offering the riders an up-close view of the animals in their natural habitat.
The situation escalated when a single dolphin reportedly breached, or leaped, from the water exceptionally close to the jet ski. The proximity of the dolphin’s jump posed a potential collision risk, prompting the individuals on the jet ski to adjust their course to avoid impacting the animal. The exact number of dolphins in the pod was described as ‘dozens’.
Waties Island is located in Georgetown County, South Carolina, known for its natural beauty and coastal wildlife. Encounters with dolphins are not uncommon in the waters off the South Carolina coast, but the scale of the pod and the close proximity of a leaping dolphin are notable aspects of this particular event. Further details regarding the specific date or time of the sighting were not provided.
Story summarized from the original created by WMBF News Staff, Gray News staff on www.wsmv.com, see more information here.
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