Charleston

15 Best Charleston Harbor Cruises

The harbor cruises: tour boats and schooner sails past Fort Sumter, where the Civil War’s first shots landed. The canvas adds something to the history.

1.Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise

Discover Charleston’s history and scenic beauty on a 90-minute boat cruise, passing forts, historic homes, and bridges, with optional sunset views.

Most Popular★ 4.5

“It was educational about the Charleston Harbor during the Revolutionary and the Civil War. The Captain was very knowledgeable, had a great sense of humor. The weather couldn’t have been better!”

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2.Charleston Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse

Discover Charleston’s natural beauty on a 2.5-hour eco boat cruise, with wildlife sightings, Morris Island Lighthouse stop, and expert guides for authentic experiences.

★ 5.0

“Jacob was a great guide. We took this boat cruise because it was rated 4.9. All the recommendations were spot on. We found many shells on the beach. Even brought home a sand dollar.”

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4.Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise

Experience a relaxing 2-hour sunset cruise in Charleston, seeing iconic landmarks, wildlife, and enjoying a romantic waterway escape for $60.

★ 5.0

“We had an amazing time with Mike and Dallas! They were both extremely nice and welcoming. Great energy and a good time. It was nice that everyone on the boat got a sunset photo.”

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6.Charleston: Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a luxurious 2.5-hour dinner cruise in Charleston Harbor with stunning views of Fort Sumter, the Ravenel Bridge, and live music, all paired with a delicious three-course meal made with local ingredients.

★ 4.3

“Barbara was our waitress and she was amazing. Very friendly staff and we enjoyed our food.”

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8.Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

Experience Charleston's harbor aboard a classic tall ship for 1.5 hours, enjoying scenic views, dolphins, and a relaxed sailing atmosphere.

★ 4.5

“Take a coat, not a jacket, if you get cold easily. I told my sister and nephew it would get cold on the water and they insisted a lightweight jacket would be good for them. It wasn't. I enjoy the cold and loved the trip…”

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11.Pirates of Charleston: Pirate Adventures and River cruises

Experience a fun-filled pirate adventure on Charleston’s Ashley River with costumes, games, and scenic views—perfect for kids and families seeking authentic fun.

★ 5.0

“Great fun the kids no matter the age! Wasn’t sure my 12 yr old grandson and 10 yr old granddaughter would enjoy this adventure but they were all in on finding treasure and beating scalawag Sneaky Pete! Even the adults were drawn into the fun.…”

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13.Charleston: Sunset Harbor Cruise

Experience stunning Charleston harbor views on a 2-hour sunset cruise for $60. Enjoy scenic sights, dolphin sightings, and a relaxed atmosphere with knowledgeable guides.

★ 4.8

“Lots of fun! Mike, the Captain, played wonderful music and was very involved with the guests. Great drinks, itinerary, value for money!”

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15.Charleston: Schooner Sailing Harbor Tour & Dolphin Watch

Experience Charleston’s harbor on a classic schooner, helping hoist sails and spotting dolphins in a relaxing 1.5-hour sailing adventure for all ages.

★ 4.6

“Had a great time and definitely would do it again! the crew of the Schooner were all awesome! They were so friendly, helpful and just a fun group to be around!! Will definitely be doing this again in the spring.”

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More Charleston Harbor Cruises

5.0Charleston Harbor Speed Boat Adventure Tour2 hours (approx.)$102.42 4.51.5-Hour Charleston Harbor Cruise with Live Narration1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)$40.00 3.5Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise$72.00 5.0Private Folly Beach Dolphin Cruise (up to 12)1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)$55.00 5.0Private BYOB Afternoon Harbor Sail On 50ft Sailing Yacht Fate2 to 4 hours (approx.)$599.00 5.0Charleston: Private BYOB Luxury Yacht Cruise2.5 hours$500 5.0Private Afternoon Harbor Cruise on Kismet for parties up to 152 hours (approx.)$1,549.00 5.0Charleston: Harbor Bar Pedal Boat Party Cruise1.5 hours$66 4.2Charleston: Haunted History Harbor Cruise$45 5.0Charleston: Morris Island Dolphin Cruise with Beachcombing2 hours$105 4.6Charleston: City Bus Tour and Harbor Cruise Combo$81 5.0White point Battery and River Run through Charleston Harbor Boat2 to 3 hours (approx.)$199.00 5.0Charleston: Boat Charter Booze Cruise And Sunset Tours2 hours$700 5.0Private Sunset Boat Tour of Charleston Harbor$900.00 5.0Private Sunset Harbor Tour 18 passenger party Yacht Kismet2 to 4 hours (approx.)$1,549.00 4.3Charleston: Harbor Sunset Cruise from Shem Creek – Music1.5 hours$50 4.8Mount Pleasant: Charleston Harbor E-Bike Tour2 hours$135 5.0Carolina Blue Sunset Cruise$60.00 5.02hr Private River Cruise with stop at Morris Island2 hours$325 5.0Harbor History Tour Aboard the Palmetto$45.00 5.0Bachelorette Party Boat Charleston Harbor$60.00 5.0Sunset Dolphin Cruise (options for public of private)$65.00 Private Luxury Sunset Boat Tour in Charleston Harbor$415.00 4.5Charleston: Sunset Schooner Pride Harbor Sail2 hours$75