3 hour BYOB Morning Boat and Beach Excursion on Southern Charm

A Detailed Look at the 3-Hour BYOB Morning Boat and Beach Excursion on Southern Charm

If you’re visiting Charleston and looking for a way to see the harbor that combines scenic cruising, secluded beaches, and a dash of adventure, the Southern Charm tour offers just that. For $499 per group (up to six people), you get about three to four hours of floating, exploring, and relaxing on a private boat led by a professional captain. It’s a flexible, personalized experience that caters to your interests—whether that’s hunting for shark teeth, soaking up the sun, or cruising past iconic landmarks like the Ravenel Bridge or Ft. Sumter.

Two things we especially love: First, the private nature of the trip means no crowds, no rushed schedules—just your group enjoying the harbor at your pace. Second, the ability to customize your day with optional beach gear, music, and stops makes this a fun, laid-back adventure that feels more like a day with friends than a cookie-cutter tour. The one consideration? The cost can add up if you opt for extra gear or beach amenities, so it’s worth planning ahead if you want to maximize your experience.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy personalized experiences, water-based sightseeing, and beach time. It’s perfect for small groups or families wanting a relaxed, flexible outing that’s less about ticking boxes and more about creating memories. If you love the idea of seeing Charleston from the water, with plenty of time to explore quiet beaches and historic sights, this tour might just be your best pick.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: Your group sets the pace and chooses what to focus on.
• Variety of sights: Pass by historic sites, bridges, and military landmarks like the Yorktown aircraft carrier.
• Flexible beach stops: Hunt for shark teeth, shell, or relax on quiet beaches with optional gear rentals.
• Includes essentials: Cooler with ice, bottled water, and a Bluetooth stereo keep the trip comfortable and fun.
• Add-on options available: Beach chairs, towels, cabanas, coolers, and speakers can turn a simple trip into a party.
• Good for all ages: Most travelers can participate, and the captain will tailor the trip to your interests.

In-Depth Review: What to Expect From the Southern Charm Excursion

Booking and Meeting Details

The tour begins at 17 Lockwood Drive, a convenient location near public transit in Charleston. Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received upon reservation, and the activity is exclusive to your group.

The price of $499 covers your private boat for up to six people, making it a great value for families or small groups wanting the flexibility of a private experience. Additional gear rentals, such as beach towels ($5), chairs ($5), or a cabana setup ($30), come with extra charges, but these are optional—and allow you to tailor your experience.

The Boat and Captain

The Southern Charm is a sleek, fast center console capable of reaching 30 mph, perfect for covering a good amount of ground in a short time. The boat is equipped with a Bluetooth stereo system so you can blast your favorite tunes, and it includes a large cooler with ice, ensuring your drinks stay chilled. The crew provides rain ponchos and an emergency porta-potty—small details that contribute to a smooth, worry-free trip.

Captain Dustin or other crew members are praised in reviews for their friendliness and knowledge. One reviewer shared, “Dustin did an awesome job,” highlighting the personal touch that can make this tour memorable.

Itinerary Highlights

The cruise offers a panoramic view of Charleston’s waterfront, passing by the Battery with its historic antebellum homes. You’ll get a good look at the city’s past and present, with commentary on landmarks like the Ravenel Bridge and Ft. Sumter, adding context and stories that bring the sights to life.

Most trips include a close approach to the Yorktown aircraft carrier, giving you a sense of Charleston’s military prominence. Sometimes, the captain can maneuver close to Ft. Sumter, providing a rare opportunity to appreciate its strategic location and historical significance.

One of the most anticipated stops is the secluded beaches like Morris Island, where you can shark tooth hunt—famous for fossils that are millions of years old. According to reviews, the guides are eager to assist if you’re after the famous Megalodon teeth, which are a real treasure hunt for enthusiasts.

Beach Time and Optional Gear

The real charm of this tour is the beach stops where you can simply relax or engage in activities like shelling or shark tooth hunting. You’re encouraged to bring your own food and drinks for a picnic on the sand.

For those wanting to elevate their beach experience, gear rentals like beach chairs, towels, umbrellas, and coolers are available. Many guests have enjoyed adding these extras to turn a quiet beach visit into a mini party. A reviewer fondly noted how they added a water hammock, which was perfect for a lazy float in the water on a hot day.

Personalization and Flexibility

The captain’s flexibility is a major highlight. Whether you prefer a quick cruise past scenic landmarks, a longer beach stay, or a combination of both, the tour can often be tailored. We loved the way the captain combined sightseeing with leisure, making sure everyone had their preferences accommodated.

Meal Options and Nearby Dining

While the tour itself doesn’t include food, you can plan to disembark at Shem Creek for a variety of waterfront restaurants, or bring your own picnic to enjoy on the beach. Some guests have appreciated the opportunity to combine the tour with a dinner in Charleston afterward, making it a full day of exploration and relaxation.

The Reviews from Past Travelers

The glowing reviews reflect the overall satisfaction with the experience. One reviewer shared, “We saw dolphins and had a really fun, informative day,” highlighting the frequent wildlife sightings and engaging commentary. Another appreciated the personalized service, noting that the crew made sure everyone stayed hydrated and added fun touches like impromptu photos and music.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $499 for a private boat is quite reasonable considering the personalized nature and the potential for multiple stops and activities. For small groups or families, this offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, beach time, and custom options that larger, group tours can’t match.

While additional gear costs may add up, you can choose exactly what you want to bring or rent. The included essentials—bottled water, soft drinks, and a good sound system—set the stage for a comfortable, fun day.

The duration of about three to four hours is enough to enjoy the harbor and beaches without feeling rushed, and the flexible itinerary means you can spend more time on what interests you most.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience appeals to travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed water adventure in Charleston. If you’re a family wanting a bit of everything—sights, beaches, wildlife—this is a great choice. It’s also ideal if you love adventure with comfort, since you can bring your own food, drinks, and gear.

Couples or small groups looking for an exclusive, customizable outing that balances sightseeing with leisure will find this tour hits the mark. People who appreciate authentic, quiet beaches and enjoy learning about local sights from a friendly captain will especially enjoy it.

The Sum Up

The Southern Charm boat tour in Charleston offers an engaging, flexible way to explore the harbor and its surroundings in a private setting. Its combination of scenic cruising, beach exploration, and the ability to personalize your experience makes it stand out among typical group tours. The inclusion of essentials, plus optional extras, means you can craft a day that’s perfectly suited to your interests and pace.

This tour suits those who value authentic, intimate experiences over large crowds and who want to combine sightseeing with some fun in the sun. Whether you’re hunting for fossilized shark teeth, relaxing on a quiet beach, or enjoying the harbor’s historic sights, you’ll appreciate the relaxed, friendly vibe and the personalized touch.

If you’re looking for a memorable, flexible, and well-reviewed day on Charleston’s waters, this private tour might just be what you’re after—an authentic, fun-filled way to enjoy the Lowcountry from the water.

FAQ

How many people can join this tour?
Up to six guests per group, making it ideal for families, small groups, or couples wanting a private experience.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers the private boat, a cooler with ice and bottled water, soft drinks, and a Bluetooth stereo system. Additional gear like beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas are optional and cost extra.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you are welcome to bring any food or beverages onboard for your enjoyment.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the relaxed pace makes it family-friendly. Just keep in mind the boat’s speed and the need for supervision near water.

What are some optional extras I can rent?
Beach towels ($5), chairs ($5), a cabana setup ($30), a JBL Bluetooth speaker ($10), a cooler ($20), and an umbrella ($10) are available.

How long does the tour last?
Typically around 3 to 4 hours, with the potential for a flexible itinerary based on your interests.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 17 Lockwood Drive, in Charleston, SC.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, the captain can tailor the trip—whether you want more time on the beach, close-up views of landmarks, or wildlife spotting.

Final Thoughts

The Southern Charm private boat tour offers an engaging mix of scenic harbor views, quiet beach escapes, and customizable fun, all within a reasonable price for a private experience. It’s perfect for small groups looking for a relaxed day with the flexibility to choose what interests them most. With a friendly captain, good equipment, and the chance to hunt for fossils or just soak up the sun, this tour makes a memorable Charleston outing for those who value authentic, personalized adventures on the water.