1.5-Hour Charleston Harbor Cruise with Live Narration

Charleston , United States

1.5-Hour Charleston Harbor Cruise with Live Narration

Active

(175 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the shoreline landmarks of the oldest and largest city in South Carolina on this cruise of the Charleston Harbor. Pass important Civil War sites including Fort Sumter & Castle Pinckney, stately antebellum homes along the Battery, and an aircraft carrier from World War II. Enjoy fresh air and harbor views as you learn about Charleston’s rich history and well-known residents from a certified Guide. Friendly dolphin often accompany the boats.

* Daytime Harbor Cruises depart from Aquarium Wharf or Patriots Point (Specific departure locations must be selected at checkout).

Available options

Cruise Depart: Aquarium Wharf

Starting point:<br/>Aquarium Wharf, Charleston, SC, USA

Cruise Depart: Patriots Point

Starting point:<br/>40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA

What's included

Live Narration by Licensed City of Charleston Tour Guides

1.5-Hour Sightseeing Cruise of Charleston Harbor

Hear enthralling tales of Charleston's colorful past

Possibility of seeing dolphins from the boat

Pass by Fort Sumter, USS Yorktown, High Battery, Ravenel Bridge, Castle Pinckney, and more

Select between two convenient departure locations: Patriot's Point or Aquarium Wharf

Learn scintillating facts about the city's most interesting former residents

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

You will learn fascinating historically accurate Charleston history while you cruise the gentle waves of her harbor. Our knowledgeable and entertaining tour guides are certified by the City of Charleston and enjoy interacting with guests. You will cruise passed notable American landmarks, such as Fort Sumter, the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, The Battery, the Ravenel Bridge, Castle Pinckney and other sites from the past and present. This relaxing and fun Charleston Tour departs from two locations daily. You will hear enthralling tales of the city’s colorful past as well as scintillating facts about her most-interesting former citizens. Perfect for all ages, the whole family can enjoy cruising along the coastline of our beautiful “Holy City”. Do you know why we call it the “Holy City”? Find out on our 90-minute Charleston Harbor tour.

Stop 2 Pass by

Pass by Ravenel Bridge

Stop 3 Pass by

Pass by High Battery

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

85 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

90 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Accesibility: Charleston Harbor Tour is not handicap accessible as we have steps that must be climbed in order to board.

90-Minute Daytime Harbor Cruises depart from either Aquarium Wharf or Patriots Point (option available at checkout)

Meeting point

Important notes

CRUISE ONLY OPTION
• 90-Minute Daytime Harbor Cruise
• If selected Aquarium Wharf departure at checkout: Cruise departs from Aquarium Wharf - 360 Concord Street, Charleston SC 29401.
• If selected Patriots Point departure at checkout: Cruise departs from Patriots Point, 40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464.

SUNSET DINNER CRUISE OPTION
• 2.5-Hour Sunset Dinner Cruise
• Cruise departs from Patriots Point, 40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464.
• Boarding begins at 6:30pm, sail time is approx. 7pm-9:30pm.

About Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, is a historic coastal city known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant food scene. With its cobblestone streets, antebellum mansions, and picturesque waterfront, Charleston offers a unique blend of history, charm, and Southern hospitality.

Top Attractions

Historic Charleston City Market

One of the nation's oldest public markets, featuring local artisans, food vendors, and unique souvenirs. The market is a great place to experience the local culture and history.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, prices vary for goods

Fort Sumter National Monument

The site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Visitors can take a ferry to the fort and learn about its historical significance.

Historical Half-day $24 for adults, $15 for children (includes ferry ride and park entrance)

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, nature trails, and a zoo. It's one of the oldest public gardens in America.

Nature Half-day to full day $24 for adults, $12 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Lowcountry dish featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp and a flavorful sauce

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or gluten-free

She-Crab Soup

A rich, creamy soup made with blue crab meat, crab roe, and a touch of sherry

Appetizer Contains shellfish

Popular Activities

Surfing at Folly Beach Kayaking in the Charleston Harbor Sunbathing and swimming at local beaches Spa treatments and wellness retreats Visiting historic sites and museums Attending local festivals and events Boating and sailing in the Charleston Harbor Fishing and crabbing

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with festivals and events.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (ET) - GMT-5 (EST) or GMT-4 (EDT during daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Charleston is generally a safe city for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone at night in less crowded areas

Getting there

By air

Charleston International Airport • 12 miles (19 km) from city center

By bus

Charleston Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates a network of buses. The system is affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Historic District Mount Pleasant

Day trips

Folly Beach

8 miles (13 km) • Half-day to full day

A popular beach destination known for its laid-back atmosphere, surfing, and seafood restaurants. Folly Beach offers a great escape from the city with its wide sandy shores and ocean views.

Middleton Place

12 miles (19 km) • Half-day

A historic plantation with beautiful gardens, a museum, and a restored rice mill. Middleton Place offers a glimpse into the lives of plantation owners and enslaved people.

Festivals

Spoleto Festival USA • Late May to early June Charleston Wine + Food Festival • Mid-February

Pro tips

Visit the Historic District early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the cobblestone streets and architecture in a more relaxed atmosphere
Take a food tour to sample the best of Charleston's culinary scene and learn about the city's rich food history
Explore the local markets, such as the Charleston City Market, for unique souvenirs and to support local artisans
Consider a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Folly Beach or Middleton Place, for a change of pace and to experience the natural beauty of the Lowcountry
Attend a local festival or event, such as Spoleto Festival USA or the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, for a unique and memorable experience