speed boat tour charleston sc

Speed Boat Adventure Tour

Captain your own speed boat on this fully narrated, 13-mile speed boat tour through the world-famous Charleston Harbor. During this 2-hour experience, you will have unrivaled views of the Battery, USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, and the downtown Charleston skyline. During the Charleston Harbor boat tour, you will also see Waterfront Park, South Carolina Aquarium, the cruise ship terminal, and all the wildlife and marine creatures that call this area home. No other Charleston Harbor tour packs this much excitement and sightseeing into one fun-filled day. Choose from a single passenger boat, double passenger boat, or a triple passenger boat.

Vendor Pricing Starts at:

$80 per person

Featured Vendors

Charleston speed boat adventures.

843.800.6003

Similar Vendors

Lowcountry jetboat adventures.

919.791.7715

Need another option?

Email The Charleston Vacationer for more recommendations !

More Party Packages

Aerial Fitness Class

Med-Spa Experience

Yoga + Meditation

Crabbing Experience

Parasailing Adventure

Glam Package

Downtown Boat Charter

Macrame Package

Folly Beach Boat Charters

Morning Workout + Brunch

Isle of Palms Boat Charters

Transportation Package

Flower Party

Cocktails + Etiquette

River Tubing

Psychic Medium Reading

Jet Ski Safari

Perfume Making Class

Picnic Package

VIP Nightclub Package

Kayaking + Paddleboarding

Surfing Lessons

Mt. Pleasant Boat Charters

Culinary Tour

Workout Package

Dance Class

Pedal Boat Booze Cruise

Sip ‘N Shop

Private Chef Package

Oyster Farm Tour

Airbnb Decorating Package

Painting Party

Jewelry Making

Luxury Yacht Charter

Sippin’ Tour

History Tour

Photography Package

Mixology Class

Tie-Dye Party

Bicycle Tour

Scavenger Hunt

Candle Making

Astrology Package

Glamping Experience

Walking History Tour

Cheese 101 Class

Cooking Class

Axe Throwing

Brewery + BBQ Tour

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Earn onekeycash when you sign in and book an activity.

Check availability

• About this activity

Charleston Harbor Speed Boat Adventure Tour

• Free cancellation available
• Mobile voucher
• Instant confirmation

Charleston's most exciting Speed Boat Adventure Tour! Experience the thrill of driving your own F13 speed boat during this 2-hour tour of the world-famous Charleston Harbor. See the city from a unique vantage point as your guide shares facts and stories about Charleston. This 13-mile guided tour hits all the best sights and attractions around. Follow your guide to top Charleston Harbor attractions such as the Battery, USS Yorktown, Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge, and more! Learn from your guide about these landmarks via the onboard communication system. Don't forget to take photos and look for local wildlife along the way. No boating experience is required, you will learn the basics of operating the speedboat from your guide before heading out on the water. You must be 21 years old to drive the speed boat.

Activity location

• 56 Ashley Point Drive
• 29407, Charleston, South Carolina, United States

Meeting/Redemption Point

• Wed, May 1 -
• Thu, May 2 $82
• Fri, May 3 $82
• Sat, May 4 $82
• Sun, May 5 $82
• Mon, May 6 $82
• Tue, May 7 $82
• Wed, May 8 $82
• Thu, May 9 $82
• Fri, May 10 $82
• Sat, May 11 $82
• Sun, May 12 $82
• Mon, May 13 $82
• Tue, May 14 $82
• Wed, May 15 $82

Double Boat-2 persons per boat

• Activity duration is 2 hours 2h 2h

Double Boat: 2-hour self-drive speed boat tour on Charleston Harbor. Select this option for 2 passengers in the same boat. IF BOOKING MORE THAN 2 PEOPLE PLEASE SUBMIT SEPARATE ORDERS

Single Boat- 1 person per boat

Single Boat(1 person per boat): 2-hour self-drive speed boat tour on Charleston Harbor. Select this option if you are traveling solo.

What's included, what's not

• What's included What's included Fully Guided and Narrated tour
• What's included What's included All taxes, fees and handling charges
• What's included What's included Your own F13 mini speedboat
• What's included What's included US Coast Guard-approved life jacket
• What's included What's included Safety orientation
• What's excluded What's excluded Hotel pickup and drop off
• What's excluded What's excluded Gratuities
• What's excluded What's excluded Food and drinks

Know before you book

• Wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Not recommended for people with neck or back problems or a recent surgery to participate. Pregnant women should not participate.
• Bring a swimsuit in the summer and a jacket in the winter, sandals or flip-flops, towel, sun block, sunglasses
• The per boat weight limit of 450 lbs (227kgs)
• No experience or boating license required. You must be 21 years or older to drive the boat. Minimum age is 5 years old.
• The boats do have a storage compartment so bags can get wet
• Voucher info: You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
• A minimum of 2 people per booking is required

Activity itinerary

Arthur ravenel jr. bridge (pass by), south carolina aquarium (pass by), joe riley waterfront park (pass by), battery & white point gardens (pass by), uss yorktown cv-10 (pass by), patriots point links on charleston harbor (pass by), best deals on things to do, top experiences in charleston.

• Cocoa Beach
• Florida Keys
• Grand Canyon
• Los Angeles
• Myrtle Beach
• New Orleans
• New York City
• Philadelphia
• Pigeon Forge
• San Antonio
• San Francisco
• St. Augustine
• Washington D.C.
• Williamsburg
• Things to Do

Explore the city's waterways and landmarks in the thrilling Charleston Harbor Speed Boat Adventure Tour! Drive your own F13 speed boat, following a guide who will communicate with you through a two-way radio. See the USS Yorktown, Fort Sumter, and the Ravenel Bridge while enjoying the wind and waves on this thrilling Charleston boat tour! up to 2 hrs

Good To Know

• Experience the thrill of driving your own F13 mini speed boat in this 2-hour boat tour through Charleston Harbor.
• Explore 13 miles of scenic waterways and the city's top attractions such as the USS Yorktown.
• Dress comfortably and remember to protect yourself from the sun, bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a towel for afterwards.
• A light jacket is recommended for morning and winter tours.
• A friendly and professional guide will lead the way from a guide boat and provide narration through a two-way communication system.
• You must be at least 21 years of age to drive the boat and 5 years old and above to ride as a passenger.
• The boats are easy to operate and you will receive a safety briefing and boating lesson before you leave the dock.
• Please note that the water can get bumpy at times, so hold on tight and enjoy the ride.
• This tour is not recommended for people with back or neck problems or who are pregnant.

Description

Charleston Harbor Speed Boat Adventure Tour Reviews

Charleston Harbor Speed Boat Adventure Tour is located at Speed Boat Adventures, Inc. • Charleston Harbor (Ripley Light Marina) • Charleston , SC 29407

Frequently Asked Questions about Charleston Harbor Speed Boat Adventure Tour

Where does the charleston harbor speed boat adventure tour depart from.

Your adventure begins at Ripley Light Marina, located at 56 Ashley Point Dr, Charleston, SC 29407. As you turn into the marina, keep driving until you see a large, oval, maroon sign on the left that reads, “California Dreaming”. Parking is available there. From the sign, walk along the entrance path to the docks. Turn right at the end and walk down the ramp. Your guide will meet you at the slips.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.

How long is the tour?

Prepare to explore 13 miles of the beautiful Charleston Harbor during this delightful 2-hour adventure.

Do the tours have any age restrictions?

The tours are family-friendly! Children riding with adults should be at least 5 years of age or older. Children under 5 are welcomed on a case-by-case basis, ensuring fair water conditions and the child's ability to hold on securely. For safety reasons, rough conditions are not suitable for children under 5.

Are there height and weight requirements for the tour?

Each boat's maximum capacity is 450lbs, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience for all. There's no specific height requirement.

Can I drive the speed boat?

Certainly! You will receive expert instruction on how to operate the boat. No prior boating experience or license is needed. To be at the helm, you must be 21 years or older to drive the boat alone, or age 18 and up to drive with an adult.

Are there any health restrictions?

Yes, for your safety, please note that you might encounter open waters during your tour. While the harbor is usually calm, occasional choppiness can occur. It is recommended that guests with neck or back issues or recent surgeries refrain from participating. Pregnant women are advised not to take part in the tour.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable beach-friendly attire and bring a light jacket for the cooler weather. It can get a bit windy, so plan accordingly.

What should I bring?

Pack some essentials like sandals or flip-flops, a towel, sunblock, and sunglasses to ensure your comfort during the tour.

Is the boat fully accessible?

Yes, this tour is accessible for individuals using wheelchairs, ensuring that everyone can join in on the fun.

Customer Support

• Frequently Asked Questions

Useful Links

• Charleston Sitemap
• Map of Charleston

Our Company

• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Purchasing Policy

Our Partners

• Travel Suppliers

Call and Book Your Next Trip Today!

1-800-590-8125.

We accept a variety of payment methods for your convenience:

We are here to help:

Don’t take any chances with your trip. Whether you need assistance booking, helpful details for you to be prepared, or need to make a change, our knowledgeable and helpful customer support team is prepared to assist you.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Speed Boat Adventure

Charleston Harbor was a successful trading port during colonial times and then transformed into a naval battlefield during the civil war. Today the harbor floor is home to many sunken warships and, during low tide, you can see the rubble that was once Fort Ripley.

During this exciting 2-hour boat tour you will learn about this and so much more. Be provided with a safety briefing by a professional guide including lessons on hand signals and boating rules.

The excitement begins as you step into your own F13 speed boat and drive 13 miles around the harbor behind the pace boat that contains your expert, knowledgeable guide. Your vessel is outfitted with a 2-way communication system that allows you to hear your guide throughout the tour.

Ride past the Battery, USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, the South Carolina Aquarium and more as you take in the beauty and history of this amazing harbor. There will be plenty of stops for photo ops or driver changes along the way.

This popular tour sells out fast as space is limited, book now for a novel introduction to Charleston Harbor that will be the highlight of your day.

Please Note: Please select the number of individuals and type of boat requested.

Top Destinations

• New York City
• United States
• Czech Republic
• South Carolina

Charleston Speed Boat Adventures

Fully narrated tour for 13 miles through the world famous Charleston Harbor.

You will have a once in a lifetime view of the Battery, USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge, the downtown Charleston skyline, Waterfront Park, South Carolina Aquarium, the cruise ship terminal and all the wildlife that call Charleston Harbor home.

With this tour you get to drive your own F13 mini speedboat, however beforehand there will be instruction covering boating basics, rules of the road, tour hand signals.

• Fully narrated tour
• Choice of several departures throughout the day
• Instruction covering boating basics, rules of the road, tour hand signals,
• Professionally trained guide leading and narrating the tour

• Instruction covering boating basics, rules of the road, tour hand signals, and professionally trained guide leading and narrating the tour
• USCG approved life jacket
• Your own F13 mini speed boat
• Hotel pick up and drop off
• Gratuities / Tips

• Bring sun block & sunglasses
• No height requirement; Each boat may not exceed 450lbs.
• To drive the boat alone, a person must be 18yrs old. 16 & up may drive as long as an adult is in the boat as well.
• We recommend children riding with adults to be ages 5 & up. Children under 5 are welcome on a case to case basis, as long as the conditions of the water are fair, and the child can “hold on” physically.
• If the conditions are rough, it is not safe for a child under 5.

Charleston Speed Boat Tours

•   $0 - $100
•   $100 - $300
•   $300 - $500
•   $500 & Above

About Adrenaline

• Corporate Adrenaline
• Become a Partner
• Affiliate Program
• Customer Reviews
• Group Bookings
• Travel Agents

Things to do

• Los Angeles
• New Arrivals
• Corporate Gifts
• Father's Day
• Mother's Day
• Gifts For Him
• Gifts For Her
• Gifts For Couple
• Gifts For Family
• Buy Gift Vouchers

Most Popular

• Grand Canyon Helicopter Tour
• Helicopter Tour NYC
• Kauai Helicopter Tours
• Maui Helicopter Tours
• Helicopter Tours Oahu
• Skydiving Las Vegas
• Helicopter Rides San Francisco
• Hot Air Balloon Rides Phoenix
• Helicopter Rides Los Angeles
• Helicopter Rides Las Vegas
• South Rim Helicopter Tours

Boat Tours & Charters

In charleston, sc.

Soak up scenic views from Charleston’s Harbor! Take a boat tour, enjoy a sunset on the water, or indulge in a private charter for a more personal experience. Browse and book below!

• Users All Ages

Harbor Boat Tour

Charleston speed boat adventures.

Fully narrated tour for 13 miles through the world-famous Charleston Harbor. You will have a once-in-a-lifetime view of the Battery, USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, Arthur Ravenel Jr Bridge, and more!

Charleston Harbor Boat Tour

Geechee girl charters.

Experience the entire harbor in this two-hour loop. Views include Shem Creek, The USS Yorktown, The Ravanel Bridge, Waterfront Park, The Battery, Castle Pickney, Fort Sumter, and the Old Village!

THE 10 BEST Charleston Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in charleston.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Boat Rentals
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Water Sports
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Speed Boats Tours
• Parasailing & Paragliding
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Swim with Dolphins
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Fort Sumter National Monument
• Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
• Battery & White Point Gardens
• Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry

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

3. Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music

4. Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

5. Charleston Marsh Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse

6. Charleston Harbor Sunset Cruise

7. 2-Hour Guided Kayak Eco Tour in Charleston

8. Myrtle Beach to Charleston with Horse & Carriage Ride, Harbor Cruise, Boone Hall

9. Private Luxury Sailing Charters, BYOB & Dolphins

10. Private Afternoon Sailing/Dolphin & History Tours on Mystique

11. 1.5-Hour Charleston Harbor Cruise with Live Narration

12. Charleston Water Taxi Cruise with Dolphin Sighting

13. Folly Beach Dolphin Viewing Boat Excursion and Estuary Tour

14. Private Morning Sail / Dolphin Tour on Fate, BYOB or Catering

15. Narrated Haunted Ghost Cruise of Charleston Harbor

16. Charleston Sunset Private Boat Charter

17. Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise

18. Charleston Harbor Speed Boat Adventure Tour

19. Private Sunset Sailing Charter & BYOB!

20. Private Morning Sailing/Dolphin & History Tours on Mystique

21. Private Sunset Sailing with Dolphin and History Tours on Mystique

22. Folly Beach Eco Boat Excursion and Morris Island Drop Off

23. Guided Sunset Social Harbor Cruise in Charleston

24. Nature Boat Tour with Certified Naturalist in Charleston

25. 2-Hour Weekday Private Harbor Cruise with Captain in Charleston

26. Pirates of Charleston: Pirate Adventures and River cruises

27. The Bachelor & Bachelorette Party Tiki Cruise

28. Charleston Sunset Cruise by Private Boat

29. Private Charleston Harbor Catamaran Sail

30. Private Luxury Sunset Cruise on the Sailing Yacht Fate

What travelers are saying.

• Hillary C 0 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Tour of Charleston Charleston was a great trip to see. Great history of Charleston the carriage ride was fun and informative. Buildings and homes are beautiful. The smell of Jasmine down many streets was delicious. And the boat ride was very informative. Boone plantation Was very informative and interesting history. The driver of the bus was informative and got us to all of our spots was very pleasant. Would recommend to others. Read more Review of: Myrtle Beach to Charleston with Horse & Carriage Ride, Harbor Cruise, Boone Hall Written April 30, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry
• Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise
• Charleston Marsh Eco Boat Cruise with stop at Morris Island Lighthouse
• Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor
• Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music
• Charleston Sailing Charters
• Coastal Expeditions
• RedFin Charters
• Charleston Historic Tours
• Pirates of Charleston
• All In One Charters
• Om Sailing Charters
• Blue Life Charters
• Absolute Reel Screamer Charters
• Adventure Harbor Tours
• Charleston Kayak Company

Exploring Charleston’s Spectacular Sights from a Speedboat

Charleston, South Carolina, exudes a charm that captivates locals and visitors alike. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes make it a treasure trove of experiences. Exploring Charleston from the waters, especially via a speedboat, unveils a different perspective — a breathtaking display of the city’s iconic sights.

Here’s a glimpse of what awaits those embarking on a speedboat adventure through Charleston:

Charleston Harbor

Charleston Harbor, the heart of maritime activity, unveils itself in all its glory from the speedboat deck. Take in the panoramic views of the harbor’s expanse, dotted with sailboats, cargo ships, and perhaps even glimpses of playful dolphins.

Rainbow Row

One of Charleston’s most recognizable and Instagram-worthy spots, Rainbow Row , reveals its pastel-colored historic homes lining East Bay Street. From the vantage point of a speedboat, witness this vibrant architectural showcase, each building representing a unique story from Charleston’s history.

The Battery and Waterfront Mansions

Cruise by the Battery, a historic defensive seawall and promenade, and marvel at the stately antebellum mansions. Admire their timeless elegance as they stand proudly along the waterfront, offering a glimpse into Charleston’s opulent past.

USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier

Enjoy a remarkable view of the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier , a towering symbol of American naval history. As you glide past Patriots Point, witness this iconic vessel’s sheer magnitude and historic significance. The speedboat’s vantage point allows for an up-close encounter with the grandeur and legacy of the USS Yorktown.

Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

As your speedboat cruises along Charleston’s waterways, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge steals the show with its graceful arches spanning the Cooper River. From this unique viewpoint, witness the bridge’s majestic silhouette against the skyline. The speedboat ride offers an impressive angle to appreciate the bridge’s architectural beauty, making it an unforgettable sight along your Charleston excursion.

Downtown Charleston Skyline

From this perspective, the city’s historic spires, church steeples, and vibrant buildings paint a breathtaking picture against the horizon. This panoramic view of downtown Charleston captures the essence of Charleston’s rich heritage and urban charm.

Wildlife Encounters

Charleston’s waters are teeming with wildlife. Watch out for dolphins gracefully riding the waves or seabirds diving for their next meal. Nature’s presence adds an extra layer of enchantment to your speedboat excursion.

Unforgettable Sunsets/strong>

Timing your speedboat adventure to coincide with sunset is a must. Witness the skies ablaze with orange, pink, and purple hues as the sun dips below the horizon.

Book Your Next Charleston Adventure Today!

Experience the thrill of Charleston’s iconic sights from a speedboat! Book your Speed Boat Adventures tour now and dive into the city’s history and beauty from a unique perspective on the water.

• Things to do in San Diego | Speed Boat Adventures

7 BEST Boat Tours In Charleston SC (2024)

Are you searching for the best boat tours in charleston sc.

Looking for the best boat tours in Charleston SC? Going on a boat tour in Charleston is the perfect way to see the city’s southern charm and natural beauty from a new perspective! 

Whether you are looking to learn more about Charleston’s rich history, seeking a unique adventure, or looking for wildlife off the coast, there is a boat tour in Charleston for everyone to enjoy! 

We’ve spent a great amount of time in Charleston and always love heading back to experience its warm weather, delicious food, and incredible views. One of the absolute best ways to take in the coastal views of Charleston is by heading out on a boat tour.

After doing hours of research, we came up with the ultimate list of the best boat tours in Charleston SC! Continue reading below so that you can have the best experience possible on the waters surrounding this beautiful southern city.

Short on time and not able to read all about the best boat tours in Charleston SC? The #1 best boat tour in Charleston SC is the Private Charleston Harbor Sailing Cruise ! This tour has 5/5 stars from over 260 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. This is the perfect option for those looking to take in the beautiful coastal scenery and sail around the Charleston Harbor on a private sailboat charter.

Best Boat Tours In Charleston SC

Below I have highlighted the best boat tours in Charleston SC for your enjoyment.

1. Private Charleston Harbor Sailing Cruise

For those looking to sail the Charleston Harbor on a private sailing charter, look no further!

This Private Charleston Harbor Sailing Cruise is the perfect option for those looking for an intimate experience with friends or loved ones. 

We particularly love that you are able to pick your own departure time so that you can make sure it fits within your schedule.

Another feature that stands out about this tour is that you can bring abroad your own food and beverages!

This is so nice for those looking to save a little money on food or for those that are picky eaters and want to bring your favorites to munch on and enjoy! 

Additionally, this tour does offer some upgrades if you would rather hire gourmet catering or a personal photographer to capture your excursion. 

We love that this tour comes with an abundance of options so you can pick what works best for you and your personal preferences!

This tour is the perfect way to experience some of Charleston’s most popular landmarks such as Fort Sumter and a great way to view the Charleston southern coast. 

Total Duration of the Tour: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Meeting Location: 33 Lockwood Drive, Charleston, SC 29401

“Can’t say enough good things about this experience. The crew and the boat were amazing and we had a blast! Captain Wit and Mireia are very accommodating and kind. Very relaxing and luxurious sailing experience. Would 100% recommend! You won’t regret it!” – Megan (read more reviews )

Click here to learn more about rates and availability for the Private Charleston Harbor Sailing Cruise !

2. Charleston Marsh Eco Boat Cruise With Stop At Morris Island Lighthouse

The Charleston Marsh Eco Boat Cruise With Stop At Morris Island Lighthouse is one of the very best boat tours in Charleston SC! 

This two and a half hour tour is the perfect escape from the city life of Charleston and allows you to take in marvelous views of the coastal town, explore Morris Island, take photos of the beautiful lighthouse, and you may even see some sea turtles or dolphins along the way!

This is the perfect tour for those looking for a quick and fun excursion in the area!

Total Duration of the Tour: About 2 hours and 30 minutes

Meeting Location: 1871 Bowens Island Road, Charleston, SC 29412

“The weather was perfect! The sea life was amazing. Captain Craig was delightful. Recommend this trip to anyone that loves water, dolphins and lighthouses.” – Sherri (read more reviews )

Check rates and availability for the Charleston Marsh Eco Boat Cruise With Stop At Morris Island Lighthouse !

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

For history buffs or those looking to learn more about Charleston’s roots, the Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise is the perfect boat tour for you!

We love that this fully narrated cruise teaches you all about Charleston’s Civil War sites and landmarks as you float along the Cooper River to Fort Sumter National Monument. 

Make sure to be on the lookout as you listen and take in the aquatic views, it is not uncommon to see marine life such as dolphins or pelicans while you sail around the Charleston Harbor! 

We specifically love that you can choose between morning, afternoon, and sunset cruise options. This is a great choice for those looking to go on an excursion but would like it to fit within their own schedule!

Total Duration of the Tour: About 1 hour and 30 minutes

Meeting Location: 10 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC 29401

“Learning all the history of the area. The guide was very informative. I recommend it to anyone thinking of a harbor cruise!!” – Zane (read more reviews )

Be sure to click here to learn more about rates and availability for the Charleston Harbor History Day-Time or Sunset Boat Cruise !

4. Charleston Harbor Speed Boat Adventure Tour

For those looking for a thrill and a hands-on experience, the Charleston Harbor Speed Boat Adventure Tour is the perfect option for you! 

Your guide will teach you how to operate an F13 speedboat. From there, you will hop behind the wheel and follow your guide past several of Charleston’s top attractions including the USS Yorktown. 

Throughout the tour, your guide will talk about various attractions and pull over so that you have plenty of photo opportunities and a chance for you to change drivers as well. 

This is a great experience for those looking for a thrilling adventure with memories that will last a lifetime!

Total Duration of the Tour: About 2 hours 

Meeting Location: 56 Ashley Point Drive, Charleston, SC 29407

“The view of the water was amazing. Tour guide was excellent and gave clear instructions and made us feel safe despite it being our first time.” – Shavon (read more reviews )

Check out the rates and availability for the Charleston Harbor Speed Boat Adventure Tour here!

5. Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor

Are you ready to embark a Schooner and explore Charleston from the water? The Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor is an excellent option for those looking to take in the views of Fort Sumter, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, and potentially see some dolphins swimming in the natural habitat!

Some features that stick out about this tour is that you are able to bring your own snacks on board and that you can purchase beverages on board!

This is the perfect option for those looking to gain some incredible views of Charleston and some of its famous landmarks from a large ship.

Meeting Location: 360 Concord Street, Charleston, SC 29401

“This was a 10/10 experience. The captain and the other workers were amazing and super knowledgeable. We had the best time and met another super sweet couple. Definitely recommend!!” – McKenna (read more reviews )

Check out rates and availability for the Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor tour here!

6. Nature Boat Tour with Certified Naturalist in Charleston 

Are you looking for an opportunity to learn more about Charleston and its nature and wildlife? The Nature Boat Tour with Certified Naturalist in Charleston is the perfect option for you!

We love that this boat tour is guided by a Certified Naturalist, someone that is trained to teach others about natural environments. 

This tour includes a nature walk and boating tour and is very informative about the city of Charleston, the environment surrounding Charleston, and the wildlife in the area. 

Total Duration of the Tour: About 2 hours

“This was a fascinating tour and especially so with a naturalist on board and a charming and knowledgeable captain. I did not realize when I booked this that we would have a chance to disembark at the island. Other tours seemed too long for us and this one was a perfect length – and gave us adequate time to explore the island. The boat went out even though we were not completely full so we all had plenty of room.” – MaryEllen (read more reviews )

Click here to learn about rates and availability for the Nature Boat Tour with Certified Naturalist in Charleston ! 

7. Charleston Water Taxi Cruise with Dolphin Sighting

This is not your typical boat tour of Charleston but it is an excellent option for those looking to discover many of Charleston famous landmarks from the water and a perfect mode of transportation for those looking to explore the Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum and the Aquarium. 

The Charleston Water Taxi Cruise with Dolphin Sighting is a great water taxi service that allows you to travel to some of the top Charleston landmarks by boat and you may even see a dolphin (or multiple) along the way!

Additionally, we love that you can pick from a handful of meeting locations depending on where you are coming from. This is a super convenient option for those that have a packed schedule or itinerary!

Total Duration of the Tour: About 1 to 2 hours

Meeting Location: You can pick from the Charleston Maritime Center, Waterfront Park Pier, Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum, and the Charleston Harbor Resort and Marina

“This was a great experience, a great way to move about the Island. We did get to see dolphins which was really cool!” – Javonka (read more reviews )

Check out this link to learn about rates and availability for the Charleston Water Taxi Cruise with Dolphin Sighting !

Is Charleston SC Worth Visiting? 

Charleston SC is definitely worth visiting due to its rich history, beautiful southern charm, tasty cuisine, and endless things to see and do. 

How To Get To Charleston

The best way to get to Charleston is by driving your own vehicle so that you can explore all that the city has to offer!

If you are traveling from afar, the best way to get to Charleston is by flying into the Charleston International Airport and then renting a vehicle . 

Be sure to grab our favorite travel insurance from SafetyWing before embarking on your journey to Charleston!

Where To Stay In Charleston 

There are countless accommodation options when it comes to picking where to stay in Charleston. Check out our three favorites below to help make your decision a bit easier!

• Budget-Friendly: Moxy Charleston Downtown – This is a great modern budget-friendly option for those looking to stay in downtown Charleston.
• Mid-Range: The Spectator Hotel – For those looking for a chic hotel with a beautiful aesthetic on the interior and exterior, look no further. We love that this hotel is not only gorgeous but it is also near countless restaurants and bars that you can easily walk to!
• Luxury: Hotel Bennett Charleston – This is the perfect high end option for those looking for a fabulous location with great amenities such as a pool and a spa. 

Best Time To Visit Charleston

The best time to visit Charleston is during the summer months! Charleston comes to life in the summer with endless things to see and do, countless beaches to explore nearby, and endless restaurants and bars to check out. 

It is important to note that Charleston can get quite busy during the summer months so you can expect large crowds and lines when visiting the area. 

If you are looking to avoid some of the crowds, we recommend visiting during shoulder season.

Particularly, we recommend visiting Charleston during the months of April-May and September-October, for those looking for some of the crowds to die out but still experience some great coastal weather. 

FAQs About The Best Boat Tours In Charleston SC

Below I have answered a few of the most commonly asked questions about the best boat tours in Charleston SC.

How much is a boat tour in Charleston SC?

Boat tours in Charleston cost anywhere between $50 and $550 depending on whether you are going on a private charter, how long the boat tour is, and many other factors. 

How long is the Harbor Tour in Charleston?

The Harbor Tour is about 1 hour and 30 minutes in length. This is the perfect amount of time to learn more about Charleston and take in the coastal views but it still gives you plenty of time to adventure and explore Charleston beforehand or afterwards.

Final Thoughts On The Best Boat Tours In Charleston SC

Charleston is home to southern charm, delicious cuisine, coastal vibes, and a rich history.

Going on one of the best boat tours in Charleston SC is the perfect way to learn more about this delightful city and take in its beautiful coastal surroundings. 

If you are searching for the best option, we recommend the Private Charleston Harbor Sailing Cruise !

This is the perfect experience for those looking to get to know more about Charleston and take in some breathtaking coastal views.

For similar posts, be sure to check out the best walking tours in Charleston ! Happy Exploring!