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Rating Star

5 (9)

Location Icon Charleston

Charleston Harbor Boat Tour: History & Scenic Views!

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Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo White Point Battery and River Run through Charleston Harbor Boat offers travelers a unique and stylish way to see the beautiful city of Charleston from the water. With Captain Gene, visitors will ride in a spacious Grady White boat, complete with amenities like TV, movies, AC, and shade, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience. This tour provides breathtaking views of Charleston's iconic landmarks and waterfront scenery.

During the boat tour, guests can expect to see notable sights such as White Point Garden (The Battery), Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney, and Shem Creek. The journey also includes close-up views of the Charleston Harbor rock outcroppings, the James Island Connector Bridge, the City Mega Dock, the U.S. Coast Guard Station Charleston, Waterfront Park, and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, the tallest bridge on the East Coast. This private sightseeing tour provides an intimate and informative experience.

Travelers will gain insights into Charleston's rich history and culture while cruising in comfort. Captain Gene shares fascinating stories and facts about each landmark, making the tour both educational and engaging. With a focus on safety and comfort, this boat tour promises to be a memorable highlight of any Charleston visit. The tour includes bottled water to keep guests refreshed throughout the journey. Quotes Logo

Highlights

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See Charleston's Top Sights: Enjoy amazing views of White Point Garden, Fort Sumter, and more from the water.

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Ride in Comfort & Style: Relax in a spacious Grady White boat with AC, TV, and plenty of shade.

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Learn Local History: Captain Gene shares stories and facts about Charleston's landmarks.

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Private & Personalized Tour: Enjoy an intimate experience tailored to your group's preferences.

Sentiment Analysis

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Customers highly recommend this Charleston harbor cruise for its knowledgeable captain, comfortable boat, and engaging tour experience. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers loved Captain Gene's knowledge and personality.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many enjoyed seeing dolphins and other wildlife.

    Positive Highlight Icon The boat is comfortable and provides shade.

    Positive Highlight Icon Several reviewers found the tour very informative and tailored to their interests.

  • Negative Highlight Icon One customer noted the booking site was a bit quirky, requiring individual ticket purchases.

    Negative Highlight Icon Some customers mentioned no spray sunscreen for the tour.

The Journey

1

Ashley Marina

Begin your adventure at Ashley Marina, a modern gateway to Charleston's historic waterways. Located on the Ashley River, this vibrant marina offers stunning views of the city skyline and is the perfect starting point for exploring Charleston's maritime wonders. Its Harborage provides a secure and scenic departure point for your harbor cruise.

2

James Island Connector Bridge

Pass beneath the impressive James Island Connector Bridge, a vital artery linking James Island to downtown Charleston. Admire the engineering feat as you sail underneath, and capture the panoramic views of the city skyline and the Ashley River that unfold on either side. It is a modern landmark that contrasts beautifully with Charleston's historic charm.

3

City Mega Dock

Marvel at the grandeur of the City Mega Dock, Charleston's premier deep-water port. Witness the impressive vessels that grace its docks, from luxurious cruise ships to specialized cargo carriers. This bustling hub offers a glimpse into Charleston's thriving maritime industry and its role as a major port of call. You might just catch sight of an extraordinary ship during your visit.

4

U.S. Coast Guard Station Charleston

Pay tribute to the dedicated men and women of the U.S. Coast Guard Station Charleston, guardians of the harbor and waterways. Observe their crucial operations as you pass by, ensuring the safety and security of Charleston's maritime community. This station symbolizes the ongoing commitment to protecting the region's vital waterways.

5

White Point Garden (The Battery)

Cruise past the iconic White Point Garden, also known as The Battery, a historic landmark at the tip of the Charleston peninsula. Admire the stately antebellum mansions that line the waterfront, and soak in the breathtaking views of Fort Sumter and the harbor. The Battery's cannons and monuments whisper tales of Charleston's rich history and its pivotal role in the Civil War.

6

Fort Sumter

Journey to Fort Sumter, a national historic landmark where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired. Reflect on the pivotal events that unfolded within its walls, and explore the remnants of this once-imposing fortress. A visit to Fort Sumter is a powerful and moving experience, offering a profound understanding of American history.

7

Fort Johnson

Discover Fort Johnson, another crucial player in Charleston's rich military history. Though less prominent than Fort Sumter today, its history is deeply intertwined with the events leading up to and during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Imagine the soldiers who once stood guard here, defending Charleston from invaders.

8

Castle Pinckney

Glimpse the enigmatic Castle Pinckney, a historic fort built on Shute's Folly Island. Though often less visited than its counterparts, it played a significant role in Charleston's defense. Admire its unique architecture and learn about its past as a military installation and a prison. Castle Pinckney offers a quieter, more contemplative glimpse into Charleston's fortified past.

9

Charleston Harbor Rock Outcroppings

Navigate past the Charleston Harbor rock outcroppings, natural barriers that have long protected the harbor from the relentless forces of the ocean. These craggy formations serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between nature and human endeavor, and their importance in maintaining safe passage for shipping traffic throughout Charleston's history.

10

Shem Creek

Glide by the picturesque Shem Creek, a vibrant waterway teeming with shrimp boats, local wildlife, and waterfront restaurants. Soak in the lively atmosphere as you observe the bustling shrimp boat activity and spot playful dolphins frolicking in the water. Shem Creek perfectly encapsulates the charm and character of the Lowcountry.

11

Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

Marvel at the architectural wonder of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, the tallest bridge on the East Coast. This modern suspension bridge spans the Cooper River, connecting downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant. As you pass beneath its towering structure, appreciate the engineering marvel and the breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor it offers.

12

Waterfront Park

Conclude your cruise near Waterfront Park, a scenic oasis on the Charleston waterfront. Admire the iconic Pineapple Fountain, a symbol of Southern hospitality, and enjoy the lush landscaping and harbor views. Waterfront Park is a perfect place to unwind and reflect on the incredible journey you've just experienced.

13

Charleston Harbor Pilots Office

Observe the Charleston Harbor Pilots office, the headquarters for the highly skilled maritime pilots who guide ships safely in and out of the harbor. Appreciate the critical role these professionals play in ensuring the smooth flow of commerce and the safety of navigation in Charleston's bustling port.

Know Before You Go

This boat tour includes bottled water. It excludes any other food or drinks. Please leave all hand jewelry ashore and refrain from using spray sunscreen. Confirm meeting point details with Captain Gene after booking. The tour departs from Ashley Marina.

Hot Tip

Reviewers highly recommend booking in advance and confirming tour details with Captain Gene. Many suggest bringing a camera to capture the stunning views and potential dolphin sightings. Some customers have also taken advantage of the captain's recommendations for local restaurants.

From $199 Price

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As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.