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Refrigerated Trailer for Rent in Bluffton, SC

You can think of refrigerated trailer rentals almost like a limousine service for your perishable items. In a limo, you get VIP treatment and stylish travel. In an ice truck rental, luxury and style are replaced with plenty of room, accessible storage, and a temperature-controlled environment. These features keep your cargo cool and protected from outdoor elements like rain, sleet, and snow, so you can make sure your items arrive on time when you need them.

You may be wondering to yourself, "Refrigerated trailer rentals sound like the perfect fit for my business. But how do I find them in Bluffton, SC?" The easy answer to that question is to call Charleston Refrigerators Trailers - the Lowcountry's premier choice for high-quality refrigerated trailers and ice truck rentals.

Every one of our refrigerated trailer rentals are:

  • Delivered and Set Up for You
  • Cleaned and Sanitized After Each Customer
  • Pre-Cooled for Your Convenience When Feasible
  • Pre-Equipped with Adjustable Temperature Options
  • Safe, Secure, and Easy to Use
Top Refrigerated Trailers Company Bluffton, SC

What Makes Bluffton, SC Refrigerated Trailer Different?

At CRT, we believe that renting a refrigerated trailer is about more than simply having a quality cooling unit. Unlike some refrigerated trailer rental companies, we incorporate friendly, helpful customer service into every transaction we complete. That way, our clients know that they're in good hands every time they call our office and have peace of mind that their business won't suffer due to lack of communication.

We also make it a point to be flexible for our customers and strive to go the extra mile for them to make their jobs and lives easier. Need power cords to hook up your ice truck for rent in Bluffton, SC? No problem, we can make that happen. Need to pick up one of our refrigerated trailer rentals yourself so you can deliver your own goods? We'd be happy to make arrangements so you can do so. Worried about the overnight security of your temperature-sensitive items? We're delighted to provide a padlock for extra security.

When you boil it down to the basics, Bluffton, SC Refrigerated Trailer has become successful in Bluffton, SC because we truly care about our customer's needs and go out of our way to ensure those needs are met.

We offer trailer rentals for both refrigerators and freezers, which are perfect for a number of industries and uses, including the following:

  • Catering Companies
  • Restaurants
  • Festivals
  • Family Reunions
  • Large Gatherings
  • Events
  • Parties
  • Weddings
  • Remote Refrigerated Storage Needs
  • Refrigerated Transportation
  • Rehearsals
  • Emergencies

About Our Refrigerated Trailers for Rent in Bluffton, SC

At Charleston Refrigerators Trailers, all of our mobile rentals are well-built and crafted with a seamless fiberglass design for both reliability and refrigeration efficiency. When you make arrangements to have an ice truck for rent in Bluffton, SC delivered or picked up, you'll enjoy a range of helpful trailer features, including the following:

  • Each Trailer Comes in a 6x16 Size
  • Four-Inch Walls for Structural Rigidity and Cool Air Retention
  • 54-Inch Reinforced Doors for Easy Loading and Enhanced Safety
  • Pellet-Duty Floor for Ease of Convenience

Cooling and freezing take place reliably with an integrated GOVI Arktik 2000US series refrigeration unit. These compact units provide a temperature range of 0 to 50 degrees F, are all-electric, and only require 110V and 15 amps. Since our coolers have the capability of maintaining temps both below and above 32 degrees Fahrenheit, our ice truck rentals double as both freezers and coolers. This handy feature makes them a more convenient and robust tool for your personal or business needs versus other mobile cooler rentals in Bluffton, SC.

With CRT by your side, there's no need to rent separate ice trucks or mobile refrigerators because our unit is 2-in-1, saving you both time and money.

How Does a Refrigerated Trailer for Rent in Bluffton, SC Work?

Generally speaking, refrigerated trailers aren't meant to cool down or freeze the items stored within them. Instead, they're meant to keep products at a specific temperature for a certain amount of time. At Charleston Refrigerators Trailers, our team members use Polar King Mobile trailers. We made the choice to use this brand for a reason: These ice trucks both meet and exceed all compliance guidelines set forth by the NATM or National Association of Trailer Manufacturers.

Our refrigerated trailers for rent utilize three major components:

 Refrigerated Trailers Bluffton, SC

Compressor

When the compressor is powered correctly, it draws in refrigerant and then compresses it. Once the refrigerant is compressed, it becomes liquified and is passed along to the trailer's condenser.

 Remote Refrigerated Storage Bluffton, SC

Condenser

After the gas is compressed by the compressor, it is passed on to the condenser for a heat exchange process. The condenser fan allows outside air to flow through, leading to the dissipation of heat and a decrease in the refrigerant's temperature. This cooling process results in the refrigerant condensing from hot gas to regular-temperature liquid.

 Refrigerated Transportation Bluffton, SC

Evaporator

The evaporator receives the liquid refrigerant through an expansion valve that regulates its flow and cooling. The refrigerant transforms into a cool liquid as it passes through the valve, then expands and turns into a warm gas in the evaporator. This gas absorbs the heat and air inside the container and is then drawn into the compressor to restart the cycle.

Bluffton, SC Refrigerated Trailer Pro Tip:

Refrigeration units can run in cycles or continuously. Running the refrigeration unit in cycles reduces fuel consumption but creates more temperature variation. Frozen foods are less sensitive to temperature changes and can endure these variations. Continuous cooling is better suited for products and goods that are not able to withstand temperature variations well. At Charleston Refrigerators Trailers, our mobile rental options utilize continuous cooling to ensure your items don't suffer from temperature variations.

5 Benefits of Using an Ice Truck for Rent in Bluffton, SC

For business owners, managing funds and staying on top of costs is a crucial part of owning a profitable company. Purchasing and maintaining a fleet of refrigerated trailers can be a significant financial burden, requiring substantial capital investment and ongoing maintenance costs. However, renting refrigerated trucks can help businesses allocate their funds more wisely.

That's especially true for businesses that do not frequently engage in long-distance refrigerated shipping. Why purchase an entire vehicle and refrigeration system when you need the trailer for more minor tasks, like delivering flowers on Valentine's Day or storing products after an unexpected power outage? If you have a specific product line or a limited-time special, it's more practical to go with a refrigerated truck for rent than to purchase an ice truck outright.

In terms of the additional benefits of refrigerated trailer rentals, there's no shortage of them to highlight:

Top Refrigerated Trailers Company Bluffton, SC
 Refrigerated Trailers Bluffton, SC
  • 01 No Maintenance Costs When you rent a refrigerated trailer, one of the biggest benefits is that you don't have to worry about expensive maintenance and repairs. If you were to buy a unit, it would only be a matter of time before you or a qualified professional would have to make repairs. At Bluffton, SC Refrigerated Trailer, all of our trailer rental options are well-maintained and up-to-date on repairs and updates.
  • 02 Cost-Effective When you buy an ice truck, you're making a long-term investment that may take a long time to pay off. When you rent, you're getting an immediate solution, which is better for your bank account when you only need the trailer for an abbreviated time.
  • 03 No Storage Costs What many folks don't think about when they buy a refrigerated trailer is that they will need someplace to store it when it's not in use. Often, that means paying even more money to rent a storage unit. With a refrigerated trailer for rent in Bluffton, SC, you can eliminate the expenses associated with storage units.
  • 04 Focus on Day-to-Day Business Obligations With an ice truck rental, you can concentrate on your core business activities instead of allocating resources towards managing a fleet of trucks and dealing with all the logistics involved.
  • 05 Refrigerated Space Catered to Your Needs Renting a refrigerated trailer from CRT means you have the flexibility of booking a short or longer-term trailer rental. That can be very helpful, especially for growing businesses and events that might have changing needs from month to month.

Bluffton, SC Refrigerated Trailer Pro Tip

 Remote Refrigerated Storage Bluffton, SC

Looking for a spot to practice towing and trailering? Practicing these maneuvers in an empty parking lot is an excellent idea. It's always better to learn the movements of your trailer in empty spaces, so you can avoid any mishaps like trying to back up and park in front of a busy store.

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Refrigerated Trailer FAQs

At Bluffton, SC Refrigerated Trailer, we're big proponents of giving our customers plenty of information. That way, they can make informed purchasing decisions and know how to better operate our ice truck rentals. To keep yourself educated, keep these FAQs in mind:

  • Q. Does CRT provide power cords for refrigerated trailer rentals? a. 1 - 100ft Cord Provided.
  • Q. What type of plug do I need for towing your trailer? a. You'll need a regular 120v plug within 100 feet of the trailer
  • Q. Is it OK to store goods in the trailer rental? a. Yes, absolutely. We'll even provide you with a padlock for extra safety!
  • Q. Do I have to clean up when I'm done using the refrigerated trailer rental? a. We ask that at pickup the trailer is in the same condition as when it arrived.
  • Q. I need both a freezer and a refrigerated trailer rental. Can you help? a. Our refrigerated trailer rentals are both coolers AND freezers. Depending on your requirements, we can regulate the temperature from 0 to 50 degrees F.

What Clients Say About Us

The Top Choice for Refrigerated Trailer Rentals in Bluffton, SC

Renting a refrigerated trailer just makes good sense for many businesses in Bluffton, SC and the metro area. That's why Bluffton, SC Refrigerated Trailer proudly serves in Bluffton, SC and the Lowcountry with refrigerated and frozen transportation rentals. If you're looking for the reliability, convenience, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness of a refrigerated trailer for rent in Bluffton, SC, look no further than CRT.

phone (843) 296-6617

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Latest News in Bluffton, SC

May River Endodontics of Bluffton, SC Announces Launch of New Website

BLUFFTON, S.C., Jan. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- May River Endodontics is pleased to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, https://www.mayriverendo.com. The new site reflects the practice's commitment to modern endodontic care while providing an improved online experience for patients and referring dental professionals.May River Endodontics is a specialty dental practice dedicated exclusively to endodontic care, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of issues affecting the dental pulp and surrounding structures. Th...

BLUFFTON, S.C., Jan. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- May River Endodontics is pleased to announce the launch of its newly redesigned website, https://www.mayriverendo.com. The new site reflects the practice's commitment to modern endodontic care while providing an improved online experience for patients and referring dental professionals.

May River Endodontics is a specialty dental practice dedicated exclusively to endodontic care, focusing on the diagnosis and treatment of issues affecting the dental pulp and surrounding structures. The practice is led by Dr. Andrew Bradley, whose advanced training and clinical expertise support a treatment philosophy centered on saving natural teeth whenever possible.

In addition to specialized clinical care, May River Endodontics places a strong emphasis on patient comfort and precision. The practice incorporates advanced diagnostic imaging and modern anesthesia technology to help ensure accurate treatment planning, efficient care, and a more relaxed experience for patients undergoing endodontic procedures.

"We're excited to launch our new website as a reflection of how we care for our patients every day," said Dr. Bradley. "The site makes it easier to understand our services, our technology, and our approach to endodontic treatment, while serving as a helpful resource for both patients and referring dentists."

The May River Endodontics team includes experienced clinical and administrative professionals who support patients throughout every stage of care. From scheduling and coordination with referring offices to post-treatment guidance, the team works together to provide a smooth and supportive experience.

Collaboration with general dentists is also a core part of the practice's philosophy. By maintaining clear communication and efficient referral processes, May River Endodontics helps ensure continuity of care and optimal outcomes for patients requiring specialized endodontic treatment.May River Endodontics offers a comprehensive range of endodontic services supported by specialized training and advanced dental technology, including:

About May River Endodontics

May River Endodontics is an endodontic specialty practice located at 255 New Riverside Village Way, Suite 203, in Bluffton, South Carolina. The practice provides advanced care focused on relieving pain, treating infection, and preserving natural teeth through specialized expertise and modern technology. Prospective patients and referring dental offices may contact May River Endodontics by phone at 843-949-4945 or visit the practice online at https://www.mayriverendo.com to learn more about available services and scheduling information.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/may-river-endodontics-of-bluffton-sc-announces-launch-of-new-website-302653197.html

SOURCE May River Endodontics

Your guide to New Year’s Eve fireworks, events, open restaurants in Hilton Head, Beaufort, Bluffton

Ready to ring in 2026?Residents and holiday visitors across the Lowcountry will have several chances to celebrate the New Year with events, ball drops, dinners and waterfront fireworks on New Year’s Eve.From Hilton Head Island to downtown Beaufort, communities are offering family-friendly events to welcome the year ahead.Here’s a running list of New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day festivities taking place across Beaufort County:Hilton Head IslandOne of the area’s most popular N...

Ready to ring in 2026?

Residents and holiday visitors across the Lowcountry will have several chances to celebrate the New Year with events, ball drops, dinners and waterfront fireworks on New Year’s Eve.

From Hilton Head Island to downtown Beaufort, communities are offering family-friendly events to welcome the year ahead.

Here’s a running list of New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day festivities taking place across Beaufort County:

Hilton Head Island

One of the area’s most popular New Year’s Eve celebrations, Harbour Town’s New Year’s Eve Ball Drop.

Taking place at 149 Lighthouse Road, this event features entertainment, food and music. To celebrate the start of 2026, an illuminated ball will drop twice — once at 7 p.m. for families with younger children and again at midnight to welcome the New Year. The $9 Sea Pines gate fee is needed for entry.

In addition to the onshore festivities, guests can celebrate from the water aboard the New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise with Vagabond Cruise. The cruise runs from 5 to 7 p.m. and departs from the Harbour Town Yacht Basin. Dinner is included and reservations are required. Tickets are $109 for adults and $70 for children aged 3 to 12.

Beaufort

For those in search of fireworks, in Beaufort, the New Year will be welcomed with a fireworks display over the Beaufort River at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

Set against the backdrop of Beaufort’s historic waterfront, the display is scheduled to begin at 9 p.m., lighting up the sky with colorful bursts over the river.

Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the waterfront. This event is free and open to the public.

Restaurants to visit for New Year’s Eve

Below is a list of restaurants serving prix fixe meals or hosting New Year’s Eve celebrations. Click on each restaurant to be directed to the webpage.

If we missed a spot, please email amiller@islandpacket.com to have it added:

Hilton Head

Bluffton

Beaufort & Port Royal

New Year’s Day events

Hilton Head Island will host its annual Polar Plunge at Coligny Beach on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026.

Held at 1 Coligny Circle, the event begins at 9:30 a.m. with activities and t-shirts. The plunge into the ocean is at 11 a.m. This event is free.

The 16th annual Pelican Plunge will take place on New Year’s Day at Hunting Island State Park, located at 2555 Sea Island Parkway.

Festivities begin with a costume parade at 12:30 p.m., followed by the official plunge into the ocean at 1 p.m. The event features prizes, food trucks and commemorative T-shirts for participants.

Tickets are required to take part in the plunge. Admission is $10 for adults and $5 for children.

Can’t-miss Christmas events in Hilton Head, Bluffton & Beaufort this weekend

The Lowcountry is lighting up for the holidays and from Hilton Head up to Port Royal, the first full week of December is packed with tree lightings, parades, markets and family-friendly festivities.No matter if you’re looking to visit a winter wonderland, get a jump on holiday shopping or watch a boat parade, the Lowcountry has got you covered.Here’s a look at the holiday happenings in Hilton Head, Bluffton, Beaufort and Port Royal from Dec. 4 to 7:Hilton HeadChristmas Belles at Coligny Theater: D...

The Lowcountry is lighting up for the holidays and from Hilton Head up to Port Royal, the first full week of December is packed with tree lightings, parades, markets and family-friendly festivities.

No matter if you’re looking to visit a winter wonderland, get a jump on holiday shopping or watch a boat parade, the Lowcountry has got you covered.

Here’s a look at the holiday happenings in Hilton Head, Bluffton, Beaufort and Port Royal from Dec. 4 to 7:

Hilton Head

Christmas Belles at Coligny Theater: Dec. 4-14

This holiday comedy is full of festive chaos as the Futrelle sisters attempt to stage the ultimate Christmas pageant while dealing with squabbling siblings and production mishaps. Tickets can be found here.

4th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting: Dec. 10

This event has been rescheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 10 at 5:30 p.m. Folks will be able to watch the 30-foot Christmas tree come to life at Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Avenue.

Christmas at Coligny Plaza: Dec. 6

Starting Dec. 6, folks can visit Coligny Plaza from 11:30 a.m. to 1p.m. to catch the holiday special Jevon Daily’s Kid Show and see Santa from 1 to 2:30 p.m. at Coligny Center Stage. These events occur every Saturday throughout December and on Dec. 21, 22 and 23.

Winter Wonderland Festival: Dec. 6

Visit Shelter Cove Community Park from 3 to 6 p.m. for a free, family-friendly celebration with bounce houses, food and drinks, a DJ, and a visit from Santa.

Holiday Nights & Lights: Dec. 6-8

Take a drive through the glowing displays of Historic Mitchelville Freedom Park from 6 to 8 p.m. as it becomes a winter wonderland.

Santa’s Workshop at Creative Escapes: Dec. 6 & 7

Kids can paint two Christmas ornaments, enjoy cookies, and take photos with Santa in this hands-on holiday experience. Tickets are required for entry. Begins at 1 p.m. at 20 Hatton Place, Suite 230.

Santa & Sirens: Dec. 1-16

Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue escorts Santa through neighborhoods beginning at 6 p.m. each night through Dec. 16. Folks can track Santa’s nightly route through the online Santa Tracker, available here.

Bluffton

3rd Annual Jingle Stroll in Old Town Bluffton: Dec. 4

Sip and shop your way through Old Town’s boutiques and galleries from 3 to 7 p.m. during this festive holiday stroll.

Bluffton Christmas Tree Lighting: Dec. 5

Starting at 5:30 p.m., folks can watch Bluffton’s Christmas tree come to life at Martin Family Park, located at 68 Boundary Street, followed by Santa’s Workshop at DuBois Park and an outdoor showing of “Arthur Christmas” at 6:30 p.m.

Bluffton Christmas Parade: Dec. 6

Starting at 10 a.m., the 54th annual beloved parade marches through Bluffton’s Historic District with festive floats, performances and community spirit.

Washington Square Holiday Makers Christmas Market: Dec. 6

Still in need of s holiday shopping spree? From 4 to 7 p.m., sip holiday drinks while browsing 40+ local vendors featuring handmade goods, art, clothing, jewelry, decor, wreaths and more.

Beaufort & Port Royal

Port Royal Tree Lighting: Dec. 3

Watch the sky glow over Paris Avenue as Port Royal lights its town tree to kick off the holidays at 6 p.m.

City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department Santa Visits: Dec. 4, 8, 11, 15 & 17

Santa will be visiting local neighborhoods with the Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department to spread holiday cheer. A full breakdown of select locations and neighborhoods can be found here. Keep an ear out for sirens and holiday music!

Beaufort’s A Night on the Town: Dec. 5

With a handful of holiday activities, music and food, this event also marks the official tree lighting to kick off the holiday season. Begins at 6 p.m. at 1301 Bay Street.

Gullah Taste of Christmas & Rice Cook-Off: Dec. 6

Enjoy the flavors and traditions of the Sea Islands at this culinary celebration featuring Gullah dishes and the beloved rice cook-off. Starts at 11 a.m. at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

Light Up the Night Boat Parade: Dec. 6

Celebrate the holidays in true Lowcountry fashion as decorated boats parade along the Beaufort River in one of the Lowcountry’s most iconic holiday traditions. The parade begins at 5:30 p.m. at Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park.

Downtown Beaufort Christmas Parade: Dec. 7

Floats, performers, dancers, community groups, and Santa himself will bring festive cheer to downtown Beaufort starting at 3 p.m.

Beaufort County Black Chamber of Commerce Holiday Market: Dec. 7

The Beaufort County Black Chamber of Commerce hosts its second annual Holiday Market featuring local vendors and seasonal goods starting at 1 p.m. at 711 Bladen Street.

Christmas light displays in Bluffton, Hilton Head, Beaufort & more: Here’s your guide

From baking cookies and watching holiday movies to gathering with loved ones, the holiday season brings countless traditions.But a fan favorite — and often beloved family tradition — is decorating and seeing festive lights.Here are some fan-favorite locations across Beaufort County to visit Christmas lights and displays this holiday season.But, if we missed a spot, let us know by filling out this Google Form, and we’ll get it added to the list. Folks may also email their favorite Christmas light ...

From baking cookies and watching holiday movies to gathering with loved ones, the holiday season brings countless traditions.

But a fan favorite — and often beloved family tradition — is decorating and seeing festive lights.

Here are some fan-favorite locations across Beaufort County to visit Christmas lights and displays this holiday season.

But, if we missed a spot, let us know by filling out this Google Form, and we’ll get it added to the list. Folks may also email their favorite Christmas light display suggestions to amiller@islandpacket.com.

Hilton Head

Shelter Cove Harbour & Marina

With over 125,000 lights, Shelter Cove has all the holiday decorations for a Lowcountry-themed holiday. Folks can stroll the entire boardwalk to enjoy Christmas decor until Jan. 4, 2026. This display is located at 1 Shelter Cove Lane.

Fire Rescue Station #3

Hilton Head Fire Station #3 officially plugged in its holiday lights on Nov. 30. Located at 534 William Hilton Parkway, the fire station has been lighting up the island for years.

Dove Street Display

This annual display is located right off North Forest Beach, near the Coligny Circle. It’s beloved for its over-the-top decorations and easy drive-by experience. The lights are usually up until the end of December.

Harbour Town

Stroll through one of the most iconic spots on the island with the signature lighthouse, shops and dining locations all while enjoying an array of holiday lights, decorations and a Christmas tree. Located at 149 Lighthouse Road and available through Jan. 1, 2026.

Hilton Head Tree Lighting

Beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 5, folks will be able to watch the 30-foot Christmas tree come to life at Lowcountry Celebration Park, 94 Pope Avenue.

Beaufort, Port Royal & Lady’s Island

Cadd Family Holiday Light Display

Starting at 5:30 p.m. every night through Dec. 27, the Cadd family has been spreading holiday cheer across Lady’s Island. Located at 66 Springfield Road, this display features a walking area, music or just an easy drive-by experience.

Port Royal Tree Lighting

Watch the sky come to life at 1214 Paris Avenue on Dec. 3 with the annual Port Royal tree lighting beginning at 6 p.m.

Beaufort’s Night on the Town

With a handful of holiday activities, music and food, this event also marks the official tree lighting to kick off the holiday season. Begins at 6 p.m. on Dec. 5 at 1301 Bay Street.

Bluffton

Bluffton Christmas Tree Lighting

Starting at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 5, folks can watch Bluffton’s Christmas tree come to life at Martin Family Park, located at 68 Boundary Street. Santa’s Workshop and a movie showing will follow.

From fairway to freedom: Bluffton golf community rescues stranded manatee

What started as a routine Saturday round of golf at Crescent Pointe quickly turned into a wildlife rescue story the community won’t soon forget.Two golfers, teeing off on Hole 9 on Nov. 22, spotted something no one expected to see beached along the shoreline: a manatee.These gentle, elusive giants are no strangers to the shallow waterways of Beaufort County — but finding one stranded on a golf course is another story.The golfers immediately called the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, setting of...

What started as a routine Saturday round of golf at Crescent Pointe quickly turned into a wildlife rescue story the community won’t soon forget.

Two golfers, teeing off on Hole 9 on Nov. 22, spotted something no one expected to see beached along the shoreline: a manatee.

These gentle, elusive giants are no strangers to the shallow waterways of Beaufort County — but finding one stranded on a golf course is another story.

The golfers immediately called the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, setting off a coordinated response that soon included Crescent Pointe staff, local residents and the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.

“I’ve never seen one other than at an aquarium, so this was a first for me and for the course,” said Crescent Pointe’s Director of Marketing, Dylan DeBellis, who helped lead on-site efforts.

Teeing off the rescue

As soon as the call came in, General Manager Ron Schiavone worked closely with the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office to secure the area and redirect golfers, so the distressed manatee could be given space.

From there, the sheriff’s office maintained direct communication with SCDNR while they consulted with Florida partners to determine the safest plan.

“It was a bit high stress — we weren’t sure if it was going to make it,” DeBellis said.

Under SCDNR’s guidance, Cpl. Dean Entrup with BCSO began relaying step-by-step instructions to keep the manatee stable: gently misting its skin, keeping it covered with damp towels and making sure it stayed warm enough — never too much water, and never too cold.

DeBellis and a Crescent Pointe community member sprang into action, shuttling back and forth and hauling buckets of water to hydrate the animal until a better solution could be created.

Brian Roller, Crescent Pointe’s director of agronomy, rushed out and tapped into a sprinkler head, rigging a hose, so the manatee could be safely and consistently misted.

Community members Tommy O’Donnell and Ryleigh Durham also stepped in to assist, carefully following SCDNR’s instructions and ensuring the manatee wasn’t disturbed more than necessary.

Thanks to hours of patient teamwork, the manatee remained stable long enough for the tide to return. As the water rose, the massive but gentle animal was finally able to move on its own and glide back into deeper water.

“All he needed was the tide to come in and help take him back out,” DeBellis said.

Authorities later searched nearby inlets and confirmed the manatee could no longer be located — indicating it successfully returned to open water.

Manatees in South Carolina

The rescue comes during the tail end of South Carolina’s manatee season.

These large marine mammals typically travel north from Florida in warmer months and can be spotted in Beaufort County between April and November, especially in sheltered areas like inlets and marinas.

By late fall and early winter, they begin their migration south, where the water stays above their survival threshold of 68 degrees. Seeing one in late November or December in South Carolina can be a sign of trouble, according to Kelly Lambert, SCDNR’s manatee response coordinator.

If you spot a manatee in South Carolina waters in late fall or early winter, contact the SCDNR hotline at 1-800-922-5431.

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 Refrigerated Transportation Bluffton, SC

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