Charleston · HISTORIC HARBOR CRUISES
14 reviewed
From the water you see the city the way it was meant to be seen — the church spires, the Battery mansions, Fort Sumter out on its island. Here are the best Charleston harbor cruises, with which sights each one narrates, how long you are aboard, whether there is a bar, and what a ticket costs.
Narrated Charleston Harbor cruise on the Carolina Belle. See Fort Sumter, WWII Yorktown, bridges, and dolphins. Sunset options, $44.50.
“this was a gift for my sister and brother in law. Both are in there 80's. the day of the trip, it was rainy and chilly. my sister called and tried to exchange that trip for another. they wouldn't do it. i will never book anything again with you”
90 minutes on a 1920s-style bay steamer with live narration, Fort Sumter views, 75+ landmarks, and a real shot at dolphins.
“The captain was knowledgeable and full of local stories.”
Charleston water taxis connect Patriots Point, the Aquarium area, Waterfront Park, and more, with dolphin sightings on every ride.
“It was great. Dallas was entertaining and knowledgeable of the sites we saw. Will definitely take the taxis again”
Luxury Charleston Harbor cruise with a 3-course made-to-order dinner, live music, and sunset views past Fort Sumter and the Ravenel Bridge.
“It was a great cruise for my sisters and I. I don’t eat pork and they really really looked out for me in a mighty special way. Will do it again.”
90-minute Charleston Harbor sightseeing cruise with live narration, Fort Sumter and USS Yorktown photo stops, and dolphin watch.
“Interesting, just the right length of time, entertaining and informative, friendly staff”
Charleston Harbor luxury dinner cruise with a three-course meal, climate-controlled deck, live music, and views from Fort Sumter to the Battery.
“My husband and I went for our anniversary and it was fabulous. The food was delicious and the server Malik was so genuine. The staff was amazing and we definitely recommend!!”
A 2-hour Charleston harbor sunset cruise on a 45-foot catamaran, with Battery, Ravenel Bridge, Fort Sumter views and a bar for snacks.
“Captain Robbie did an amazing job with the boat cruise. He has a great sense of humor and is very entertaining while providing a great cruise. Dallas was also very knowledgeable and they both gave a wonderful experience”
Ride Charleston in a climate-controlled coach and then out on the harbor. See Rainbow Row, the Battery, Fort Sumter, and USS Yorktown.
“Difficult to understand the guide in the boat with engine noise”
Sail Charleston Harbor on the Schooner Pride. Help raise 84-foot sails, keep watch for dolphins, and enjoy Fort Sumter views for $48.
“I loved that they didn't talk the whole time and we were able to just relax and enjoy the ride :)”
1.5-hour Charleston Harbor cruise with live English narration, skyline views, and major forts like Fort Sumter from a comfortable restroom-equipped boat.
“Very nice and informative cruise. The narrator was terrific. Lot’s of civil war facts about the Charleston harbor and surrounding islands and previous Forts.”
Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise: 2.5-hour harbor sail on Charleston Princess with a BBQ buffet, live blues, and sunset views.
“They booked it a week later I signed up for the 20th my ticket said 27th I called they said screen shot it I did they refused to correct or give a refund we went to the dock no cruise left on 20th another couple there to trying to board too lady told us book directly not to use Viator they are sending texts asking how it was. Wouldn’t recommend using Viator again”
Private 2-hour harbor cruise on Charleston’s Kismet for up to 15, with BYOB, swimming floats, friendly crew, and classic skyline views.
“We had the absolute best time with captain quentin and first mate Hailey! They were so much fun and made our trip experience so much better! Highly recommend booking with them!”
Charleston Harbor Bar pedal boat party on the Ashley River. 90 minutes of landmarks, optional pedaling, and bring-your-own drinks.
“Captain Mike was absolutely amazing! We had a fantastic time”
A 90-minute haunted history cruise in Charleston Harbor on the Palmetto catamaran, with live narration, pirates, and ghost lore.
“our group completely enjoyed this tour. The tour guide was enthusiastic & shared different stories from other haunted Charleston tours. The boat was. comfortable with amenities. Definitely recommend.”
