Top Charleston Water Tours

Charleston Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse

2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Charleston

4.9

(2,354)

from $56

Watch the sun set above Charleston, South Carolina with a 2-hour sunset harbor cruise aboard a 45-foot motorized catamaran. Find a comfortable seat on deck, spot the landmarks of downtown Charleston and the waterfront, and watch for the dolphins and sea birds that thrive along the South Carolina shoreline. Enjoy a relaxing break from the city while spending a romantic evening on the water.

4.9

(1,018)

from $54

Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise

See the Charleston Harbor by boat with a leisurely sightseeing tour along the Cooper River to Fort Sumter National Monument. Leave the guidebook at home, because this fully-narrated tour focuses on Charleston, South Carolina's history from Civil War sites to antebellum houses and landmarks, passes under Cooper River bridges, and explores a waterfront that’s home to bottlenose dolphins and pelicans.

4.8

(1,101)

from $60

Charleston Harbor Live Narrated History Day or Sunset Boat Cruise

Charleston Harbor Live Narrated History Day or Sunset Boat Cruise

Get out on the waters of Charleston Harbor during this cruise aboard an 84-foot-tall (25-meter) classic tall ship. As the crew hoists the sails of the schooner, you glide past some of the city's historical sights and watch for dolphins in the water. The route varies depending on the sailing conditions. Drinks are available to purchase on board. Select a morning or afternoon departure time when booking.

4.4

(3,224)

from $45

Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

Charleston Water Taxi Cruise with Dolphin Sighting

4.5

(801)

from $56

1 to 11 hours

4.8

(1,042)

from $17

Fort Sumter Access and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

Visit the site where the first shots of the American Civil War began without the hassle of arranging transportation or waiting in line for tickets. This Fort Sumter package includes admission skip-the-line tickets as well as a round-trip, narrated ferry ride from Charleston. Enjoy time to explore the historic fort and museum, watch a battle reenactment, and browse for souvenirs before the return ferry ride.

Fort Sumter Access and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

2 hours 15 minutesFree Cancellation

4.6

(3,852)

from $43

Likely to Sell Out

Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion and Estuary Tour

Experience the beauty of the Lowcountry during golden hour as the sun sets over the tidal salt marsh. Your evening ecotour boat trip takes you away from the hustle and bustle of Charleston Harbor and crowded beaches into the quiet, remote waterways of the estuary. Cruise through winding tidal creeks and keep an eye out for great blue herons, egrets, pelicans, ospreys, shorebirds, and Atlantic bottlenose dolphins as they move through the marsh. Each trip offers a unique opportunity to experience wildlife in its natural habitat while enjoying the peaceful tranquility of the marsh. Relax on the water with Capt. Chris, a local guide sharing the stories, history, culture, seafood and ecology that make the Lowcountry special. Explore hidden creeks and untouched marsh views away from crowded tourist routes while learning how this ecosystem supports the wildlife. Watch the sunset, discover the hidden side of the Lowcountry, and enjoy an unforgettable coastal adventure beyond the postcards.

(198)

from $56

Evening Cruise Around Remote Tidal Salt Marsh

Evening Cruise Around Remote Tidal Salt Marsh

Set sail for an unforgettable 2-hour sunset cruise on the Serendipity Catamaran, departing from Seabreeze Marina in downtown Charleston. Enjoy stunning waterfront views and local wildlife as the sun dips below the horizon. This upscale sailing experience accommodates only 12 guests, ensuring a cozy atmosphere while you sip a complimentary champagne toast and savor a curated charcuterie spread. Guests are also welcome to bring their own beverages, making it a perfect setting for a refined evening with friends or a romantic outing. - Limited to 12 passengers for an intimate sail experience - Includes complimentary champagne toast and charcuterie spread - BYOB with provided cooler, ice, and cups - Departs from Seabreeze Marina, convenient for downtown visitors

(9)

from $75

Luxury Sunset Sail on Serendipity Catamaran in Charleston

Luxury Sunset Sail on Serendipity Catamaran in Charleston

Explore the hidden beauty of the Charleston Lowcountry as the sun rises over the tidal salt marsh. Your morning ecotour boat charter takes you away from the crowds and into remote creeks, winding waterways, and untouched areas of the estuary where wildlife begins its day. While everyone else is heading into rush hour traffic, the marsh is already alive. Watch great blue herons, egrets, pelicans, ospreys, and other coastal birds begin their morning routines while dolphins move through the creeks and feed along the shoreline. The early morning hours offer some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities, with calm waters. Join your local captain for a behind-the-scenes look at what makes Charleston’s tidal salt marsh so special. Learn about the history, culture, and ecology of the area while exploring waterways. Join this off-the-beaten-path adventure through the Tidal Salt Marsh and experience the wildlife, incredible marsh views, and Charleston beyond the postcards.

(23)

from $150

Morning Marsh Magic Wildlife Boat Tour

During your 2.5-hour tour you will witness the beauty that has made Charleston the #1 City in the World year after year. Impressive, but what is beauty without a little brawn! During the tour you will see the Yorktown, Fort Sumter, Fort Johnson, Fort Moultrie, Castle Pinkney, and the world renowned Battery and White Point Garden which housed the artillery during the Civil War. If you think all of that sounds amazing, just wait until you see the sunset. Experiencing the Charleston sunset from the water will leave you breathless! After you catch your breath, the sunset will serve as the perfect backdrop for family portraits, engagements, you name it! Food and drink are encouraged! Alcohol is welcome for guests 21 and older. We provide the cooler and ice - aren’t we nice! Music and boating are like a horse and carriage - They just go together! All our boats are equipped with a Bluetooth stereo system that makes us the envy on the water so bring your tunes.

(5)

from $75

Private Sunset Boat Tour of Charleston Harbor

(6)

from $900

Private Sailing Charter with Captain, BYOB

The golden hour of sunset is our prime booking time on board "Esprit de Joy!"

(90)

from $500

Folly Dolphin Adventure (Private or Public) to 12 guests

Price varies by group size

(62)

from $52

Private Evening Boat Cruise Around Remote Tidal Salt Marsh

Experience the beauty of the Lowcountry during golden hour in the tidal salt marsh with up to 6 of your favorite people. Your evening ecotour boat trip takes you away from the hustle and bustle of Charleston Harbor and crowded beaches into the quiet, remote waterways of the estuary. Cruise through winding tidal creeks and keep an eye out for great blue herons, egrets, pelicans, ospreys, shorebirds and Atlantic bottlenose dolphins as they move through the marsh during Golden Hour. Relax on the water with Capt. Chris, a local guide sharing the stories, history, culture, seafood and ecology that make the Lowcountry special. Explore hidden creeks and untouched marsh views away from crowded tourist routes while learning how this ecosystem supports the wildlife. This is a private tour for up to 6 passengers. There will not be any other guests on the boat. Watch the sun go down, discover the hidden side of the Lowcountry, and enjoy an unforgettable coastal adventure beyond the postcards.

Private Evening Boat Cruise Around Remote Tidal Salt Marsh

(3)

from $425

Explore the hidden beauty of the Charleston Lowcountry as the sun rises over the tidal salt marsh with up to 6 of your favorite people. Your morning ecotour boat charter takes you away from the crowds and into remote creeks, winding waterways, and untouched areas of the estuary where wildlife begins its day. While everyone else is heading into rush hour traffic cruise and watch great blue herons, egrets, pelicans, ospreys, and other coastal birds begin their morning routines while dolphins cruise the creeks. The early morning hours offer some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities with calm waters. This is a private tour for up to 6 passengers. Join your local captain for a behind-the-scenes look at what makes the Lowcountry so special. Learn about the history, culture, and ecology of the area while exploring waterways. Join this off-the-beaten-path adventure through the tidal salt marsh and experience the wildlife, incredible marsh views, and Charleston beyond the postcards.

Private Morning Wildlife Boat Cruise In Remote Tidal Salt Marsh

Private Morning Wildlife Boat Cruise In Remote Tidal Salt Marsh

from $425

Set sail on the Charleston Princess for an unforgettable evening of live music, stunning harbor views, and Southern BBQ. Enjoy a buffet of pulled pork, smoked chicken, mac and cheese, and more—all while local musicians provide the perfect soundtrack. With three spacious decks, open seating, and a lively onboard atmosphere, this cruise is ideal for date nights, group outings, or a laid-back night on the water.

Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise

Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise

We offer unforgettable private boat tours and party cruises on the beautiful waterways of Charleston. Perfect for celebrations like bachelorette parties, birthdays, or simply enjoying a cruise, these charters promise a fun and relaxing experience. Each tour includes a captain, a state-of-the-art sound system, coolers with ice for your beverages, and comfortable seating. Whether you opt for a 2-hour trip or a longer gathering with friends, prepare to make lasting memories on the water. - Choose from 2, 3, or 4-hour private charters, ideal for any occasion - All boats come equipped with a sound system, seating, coolers, and ice - Perfect for bachelorette parties, birthdays, and relaxing cruises

3.6

(193)

from $72

Lay N Low Bachelorette N Bachelor Party Boat

Lay N Low Bachelorette N Bachelor Party Boat

2 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

from $700

Although Charleston may be more famous for its bars than its beaches, visitors would be remiss to overlook the Holy City's natural charms. Join a certified naturalist for a 2-hour nature boat tour through the waterways off Charleston Harbor, including a stop to explore the historical Morris Island. Throughout the tour, take in views of the Charleston skyline and spot wildlife like dolphins and seabirds with the help of your guide.

Nature Boat Tour with Certified Naturalist in Charleston

Nature Boat Tour with Certified Naturalist in Charleston

As you embark on our 2-hour journey, you'll witness some of the most spectacular scenes enjoyed in coastal South Carolina. Our goal for our guests is to search for bottlenose dolphins and local species of birds while taking pleasure in the splendid scenery along the way. Bottlenose dolphins, well known for their intelligence, friendly disposition, and smiling faces, have been interacting with humans for centuries and seem to have as much interest in us as we have in them. They often swim near the boat, lifting their heads out of the water to get a glance at all the people on-board. Our South Carolina shores offer breathtaking beauty that becomes a serene portrait aboard our boat where we see dolphin jump and play. The Charleston coast is home to a wide variety of birds of prey, waterfowl, wading birds, terns and gulls, and shorebirds.

4.9

(81)

from $55

Charleston Dolphin Tour - Private up to 10

Charleston Dolphin Tour - Private up to 10

from $495

Get off the beaten path and into Charleston's wild coastal areas on this eco boat excursion through salt marshes, estuaries, and tidal waterways. Your guide keeps an eye out for dolphins and shorebirds as you cruise toward Morris Island, a barrier island best known for its 19th-century lighthouse. Once ashore, you're free to walk the beach, collect shells, and explore at your own pace before the boat returns to collect you.

Folly Beach Eco Boat Excursion and Morris Island Drop Off

(61)

from $69

Missy Bachelorette N Bachelor Party Boat

2 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

(1)

from $700

Take in views of some of Charleston’s top historic sights from a unique perspective with this panoramic dinner cruise through Charleston Harbor. Enjoy a three-course dinner and a full-service bar available for purchase as you cruise past Fort Sumter, the Battery, and Ravenel Bridge. Capture spectacular harbor views, watch the sunset (for summer cruises), and relax to live musical entertainment on board.

Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music

Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music

Learn more about the city of Charleston and its landmark harbor as you cruise through the waters with this sightseeing cruise. Set off on a comfortable pleasure craft and skirt the coastline to take in the skyline and top historic sites like Fort Sumter, the aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, The Battery, the Ravenel Bridge, and Castle Pinckney. Gain a better understanding of the city’s colorful past with live narration during the cruise.

4.1

(709)

from $117

Charleston Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch Cruise

Charleston Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch Cruise

Folly Beach Eco Boat Excursion and Morris Island Drop Off

4.2

(211)

from $37

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Top Attractions in Charleston

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Attractions

What are people saying about Charleston

Tyler_N, Aug 2026

Maybe next trip! (:

I’m sure it was a wonderful time!!! We had looked forward all week to the boat trip and looking for shells. Unfortunately my wife suffers from many chronic illnesses and we’re were unable to attend the boat trip. Maybe next year we will get the chance to have a redo!

2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Charleston

Donna_B, Aug 2026

A must do!

This is something you must do, whether you’re experienced or first time kayaker. Max our guide was so interesting to listen to as he explained the marshes and the history that went along with it. I would recommend going earlier in the day before the heat hits. Loved it!!

Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

Sherry_D, Aug 2026

Great cruise

This was a wonderful cruise, well worth the money. We were able to see a ton of dolphins, got a closer look at Fort Sumter, and enjoy a nice boat ride. We went with the family and our children (6&9) had an absolutely fantastic time as did their grandma who was with us. My kids had a great time spotting dolphins (even though we also live on the coast and see them often). Highly recommend bringing some binoculars to assist in spotting them (can’t remember if the ship had them as we had our own) but they swam directly next to and under the boat also. The crew was amazing!! They let the passengers (kids or adults) help with raising the sails and even steering at times which my kids thought was so cool. The captain was so nice and we had a great conversation and he just really took his time with the kids. The other crew members did as well, we just had a longer chat with the captain. There were drinks for sale which were reasonably priced. Really a fantastic time and highly recommend, you won’t be disappointed!!!

Luxury Sunset Sail on Serendipity Catamaran in Charleston

Anne_S, Aug 2026

Sunset cruise

We had an incredible sunset catamaran cruise in Charleston! From start to finish, the experience was relaxing, beautiful, and so much fun. The views of the Charleston harbor at sunset were absolutely breathtaking. What truly made the trip unforgettable was the amazing crew. Dustin and Allissa were outstanding—friendly, welcoming, knowledgeable, and attentive throughout the entire cruise. They made everyone feel comfortable, kept the atmosphere fun, and went above and beyond to ensure we had a great time. If you’re looking for the perfect way to experience Charleston from the water, I can’t recommend this sunset cruise enough. The stunning scenery combined with exceptional service made it one of the highlights of our trip. We’ll definitely be back!

Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion and Estuary Tour

Pamela_E, Aug 2026

Wonderful Dolphin tour--saw so many dolphins and learned a lot!

The Captain provided a great experience during the dolphin tour. We learned some history, some biological information, and enjoyed a peaceful morning in the water. Saw lots of dolphins, including some small ones that were born recently. It was clear that the Captain knows the waters and the dolphins very well. Highly recommend!!

Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise

Lakshmipriya_G, Aug 2026

We had an absolutely...

We had an absolutely wonderful time on the sunset cruise! It was such a relaxing and beautiful experience, with stunning views from start to finish. Captain Mike and Katie were both fantastic and friendly, welcoming, and made the trip even more enjoyable with their professionalism and great hospitality. They made everyone feel comfortable and ensured we had an unforgettable evening. We truly loved every moment of it and would highly recommend this sunset cruise to anyone looking for a memorable experience. Thank you, Mike and Katie, for making our trip so special!

Charleston Water Taxi Cruise with Dolphin Sighting

LaQuantia_G, Jul 2026

Captain Jeff and Tanner are where it’s at!!

Such a seamless experience! It was a large group of us as we were celebrating a family reunion and we were blessed to be aboard the FUN boat. 😂 Captain Jeff and Tanner were an absolute blast. The breeze off the water was everything we needed for such a hot day and the many dolphin sightings put the icing on the cake. 🥰

Folly Dolphin Adventure (Private or Public) to 12 guests

Stacy_G, Jul 2026

Best time ever

It was fabulous and definitely will do it again ! Informative , fun and just breathtaking sites ! Our guide was so informative and very educated in the marine world and the history of south carolina learned alot all while having a great time ! Nick was amazing ! Such a great experience there is literally nothing bad or negative to write ! Just go do it ! You will not regret it at all

Private Sailing Charter with Captain, BYOB

George_A, May 2026

Perfect Sunset Sail

Every aspect of the experience, from beginning to end, was simply perfect! My wife and I took the sunset cruise to celebrate our 35th Anniversary. Captain Will was waiting for us at the gate when we arrived, helped us board, gave a quick tour and safety briefing and then we were off on a fantastic sail. The boat was in great shape, easy to move around on and had all the essentials with plenty of comfortable seating. Captain Will was an interesting, thoughtful, gracious and entertaining host and guide and shared his local knowledge to help us with the remainder of our visit. This was an outstanding experience for us as visitors to Charleston and, I expect, it would be for locals as well!

Private Sunset Sail BYOB Dolphin/History Tours on 43ft Mystique

susan_b, Apr 2026

Fantastic sunset cruise...

Fantastic sunset cruise with Captain Will and his mates Sam and Sam. They gave us a great sail and tour of the Harbor. Will knows how to time the sale so that you are returning towards the harbor in time to capture the most beautiful sunset. The boat has spacious seating and is comfortable for wine and cheese to toast the sunset. A truly memorable evening in Charlestown!

Narrated Haunted Ghost Cruise of Charleston Harbor

Marissa_K, Oct 2025

Captain Mike and Macey...

Captain Mike and Macey were the best. They took us around to all different spots in Charleston harbor and told us spooky ghost stories about each of the locations. They were fun, interactive, and they made sure everyone had a great time I will definitely be looking into maceys book next!