One of South Carolina’s most significant cities, Charleston boasts an impressive history that stretches back to the 17th century, and is home to a number of landmarks that showcase its colorful past.

Among the destination’s highlights are Fort Sumter — the attack of which triggered the American Civil War — as well as Castle Pinckney and a renowned WWII naval vessel.

Boat tours in Charleston enable you to gain panoramic views of the city’s most iconic attractions, all the while relaxing as you swish through the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Here's all you need to know about boat tours, one of the most invigorating outdoor activities in Charleston.

What are the most popular boat tours in Charleston?

Charleston Harbor sightseeing cruise

This cruise in Charleston is the ideal way to enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city’s most significant sites. As part of a large group, you’ll board your vessel and sail out into the harbor, listening to engaging commentary along the way.

You’ll pass by the Battery — a seafront promenade that once featured an artillery battery and is now known for its smattering of luxury homes built in an Antebellum style.

Continuing on, you’ll pass the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge — named after the Republican politician — which connects the city with Mount Pleasant, as well as the 19th-century Castle Pinckney, used as a prisoner-of-war camp during the American Revolution.

Another landmark you’ll discover on this cruise is Fort Sumter, located at the entrance of Charleston Harbor, and the USS Yorktown (CV-10), which was built in 1943, and earned 11 battle stars during the remainder of WWII.

Historic boat tour in Charleston Harbor

This sightseeing boat trip in Charleston focuses specifically on the city’s history, stretching back to the American Civil War, which was fought between 1861 and 1865.

You’ll pass several of the same monuments visited on other cruises, such as Fort Sumter and Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, however, you’ll enjoy a more in-depth education than you would experience on other tours.

Another destination you’ll sail past is the Joe Riley Waterfront Park, which stretches along the Cooper River and is famed for its Pineapple Fountain. The symbol of this fruit can be found throughout the city and represents hospitality, which the southern state is known for.

All in all, you’ll see over 70 attractions during your cruise, helping you to gain a well-rounded view of the city.

Dolphin watching cruise in Charleston

Charleston isn't just known for historic attractions — it's also a popular location for dolphin watching tours. Hop aboard a schooner for a chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

On this 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise, you'll see the most famous landmarks including Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and Fort Sumter.

The highlight of course is seeing bottlenose dolphins leaping through the waters. You're also allowed to bring your own food and buy drinks on board for an enjoyable outing.

Haunted ghost cruise in Charleston

Learn the secrets of the city that the locals don’t want you to know on this alternative history tour of Charleston.

As you sail through the waters of Charleston Harbor, you’ll be on the edge of your seat, listening to the horrible happenings on the water from centuries past.

You’ll hear about the pirates who prevented all sailing vessels from entering or leaving the harbor, holding members of the elite ransom. This criminal activity continued for a week in the 18th century, leaving 10 vessels pillaged.

Alongside pirates, you’ll also find out about the ghost stories that surround Charleston’s waterfront buildings, as well as wartime history.

While this is a haunted cruise, the tales told are family-friendly, meaning that everyone can join in and feel their spine tingle as they discover the paranormal activity of Charlestown.

Luxury dinner cruise in Charleston

If you’re seeking a memorable experience to end your vacation on a high note, consider opting for a luxury dinner cruise in Charleston.

From your table, you’ll gain spectacular views over the city, watching as the sun sets beyond the horizon and the coastline illuminates with thousands of twinkling lights under inky black skies.

Feel yourself unwind as you listen to relaxing music and toast your loved ones over a glass of bubbly or admire the sights, including the Battery and Fort Sumter, from the observation deck.

Then enjoy a feast of local favorites, which include she-crab soup, made using roe collected from female crabs, as well as shrimp with grits. Once you’re comfortably full, you’ll return to the city to continue on with your night.

Speedboat tour in Charleston

Alternatively, those seeking a thrill on vacation should book a speedboat tour and feel their adrenaline rise as they whip through the waters of Charleston Harbor.

You’ll begin by learning how to control your own vessel before you take the reigns completely and zoom your F13 speedboat across the open sea.

While you will discover many fascinating landmarks and stop to snap photos commemorating your trip, the most exciting part of this excursion is acting as the captain of your own boat.

And, if you’re part of a couple, there’s no need to row over who gets to steer as there’s an opportunity to switch drivers halfway through the tour.

Private luxury sailing trip in Charleston

If you’re seeking greater personalization than a group excursion can provide, consider booking a private boat tour in Charleston.

These trips take place on board luxury sailing charters and you’ll have the flexibility to choose your own timeslot, weaving the activity into your vacation itinerary effortlessly.

You’ll enjoy Charleston’s top sights alongside a friendly captain and you’re welcome to bring your own picnic and alcoholic beverages on board.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a fuss-free experience, upgrade your tour to include a fully catered meal. Another option, if you’re celebrating a special event, such as a birthday or bachelorette party, is to request a photographer on board to capture your unforgettable memories.

Participate in this type of sailing trip during the day to see a number of attractions in their full glory, or, opt for a sunset cruise to admire the city draped in a blanket of gold.

How much are Charleston boat tours?

Boat tours in Charleston vary in price, depending on group size, attractions and inclusions.

Adults will pay between US$30 and US$40 each for a sightseeing cruise in Charleston Harbor. Children under 12 cost between US$20 and US$30 each while military personnel qualify for a small discount of US$2 off the standard adult rate with appropriate identification.

Haunted Charleston boat tours cost US$40 per adult and US$30 per child aged 4 to 12. You’ll be part of a large group limited to 49 guests and children aged 3, and under are not permitted to join the excursion.

Those who choose a historic boat cruise will pay between US$40 and US$50 per adult while children from 4 to 11 cost just under US$30 each. Children under 4 are welcome to participate and incur no additional charge. You can expect there to be up to 200 travelers aboard your vessel.

If you're hoping to go on a dolphin-watching tour, you can expect to pay from around US$50 per adult and US$30 per child under the age of 12.

Luxury dinner cruises cost between US$80 and US$90 per person of any age, and include a three-course meal. However, drinks are at your own expense and can be purchased from an on-board bar. It’s worth noting that tables are set up for four to six guests and, if booking as a smaller party, you will not be guaranteed your own private table. Instead, couples are seated with other travelers.

Speedboat tours operate in small groups capped at eight participants and cost US$160 for solo travelers. However, you’ll save money by booking as a couple and pay just over US$100 per head.

You’ll pay US$500 per group of up to six on a private sailing trip in Charleston that takes place during the daytime. If you instead opt for a sunset experience, you’ll pay between US$520 and US$530 per group. Broken down, with the maximum number of people in your party, you’ll each pay between US$80 and US$90. Alongside the rental of your vessel, this price also includes non-alcoholic refreshments.

What will you see on a cruise in Charleston?

Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge is not the first bridge to cross Charlestons’ section of the Cooper River.

Originally, a two-lane bridge was constructed here and dubbed a “roller-coaster bridge” for its design. However, this crossing point proved insufficient at easing traffic and a newer, three-lane bridge was built. However, this bridge’s success was also short-lived.

A larger-scale bridge was needed and so the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge was built, taking more than 20 years to complete due to monetary issues along the way.

The current bridge spans almost 500 meters and is named after Arthur Ravenel Jr. who was put in charge of funding the project.

Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter is located on a purpose-built island to protect the city against naval invasions. The landmark was commissioned as a precautionary measure after the War of 1812, during which Washington was seized by British troops.

It was named after Thomas Sumter — an American military officer — and was attacked in 1861 before the fort was fully completed, sparking the American Civil War, which lasted 4 years.

The Battle of Fort Sumter left the site in ruins and, despite some restoration efforts, the landmark was never returned to its original condition.

Castle Pinckney

Castle Pinckney was commissioned by the government of the United States at the beginning of the 19th century, replacing an older ruined fortification.

The original fortress built here was constructed just a few years earlier but was destroyed several months after completion by a violent hurricane.

The landmark is named after the Founding Father, Charles Cotesworth Pinckney, for his efforts in the Revolutionary War.

While the fortress did serve as a prisoner-of-war camp very briefly during the American Civil War, its main use was as an artillery position.

How long do boat trips last?

Boat trips in Charleston typically last between 1.5 and 2 hours. This makes sailing along the harbor the ideal activity for those with a limited itinerary who wish to enjoy an alternative city tour. These excursions usually offer several departure times throughout the day so that no matter how little time you have to spare, you will be able to squeeze in a boat trip.

Where do the cruises leave from?

Cruises in Charleston leave from various points along the waterfront, including Patriots Point, Aquarium Wharf and Wharfside Street.

The exact meeting point of each tour can be found on the booking page, allowing you to weigh up several excursions and decide which one is most appropriate for your party.

Being able to find out this information ahead of time also enables you to plan your route and arrange any necessary transportation in advance.

While Charleston’s public transportation is more limited than in other major destinations, the city is home to a reliable network of buses and trolleys that help you navigate its maze of streets with ease. Alternatively, you can hail a taxi to transport you to your starting destination, allowing for a seamless experience.

Are Charleston boat tours wheelchair friendly?

Boat tours in Charleston vary in accessibility. Several types of excursions are suitable for wheelchair users, including speedboat tours and historic cruises, while others, such as luxury dinner cruises, are partly accessible, and require notice to cater to your additional needs.

However, you’ll find that other types of boat trips are not suitable for those with reduced mobility, including private luxury sailing experiences and ghost tours. If you’re unsure of the suitability of a boat tour, you should contact the operator to see whether they can meet your requirements.

Alternatively, if you can’t find an excursion that ticks all the boxes, you can instead choose from a plethora of other tours and outdoor activities in Charleston.

When is the best time for boat tours in Charleston?

The best time for boat tours in Charleston is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The summer months (June to August) are peak tourist season and also typically humid and rainy.

In the shoulder seasons, you can experience milder weather and fewer crowds, making for a more pleasant cruise.

Which other sightseeing tours can be done in Charleston?

Walking tours in Charleston
Charleston horse-drawn carriage tours
Ghost tours in Charleston
Charleston city tours
Food tours in Charleston

Top tips

Wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing. Layers are a good idea since it can be cooler on the water, especially during evening or early morning tours. Don't forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect from the sun.
Get to the departure point early to ensure you have enough time to board and find a good spot on the boat. This also gives you a buffer in case of unexpected traffic or parking challenges.
If you're prone to motion sickness, take precautions before boarding. Over-the-counter remedies or motion sickness bands can be helpful.

Boat Tours in Charleston