Charleston: Private Yacht Charter

Imagine cruising through Charleston’s historic harbor aboard a sleek, private yacht, feeling the salty breeze and soaking in panoramic views of iconic landmarks. That’s exactly what you get with Chocolate Milk Charters, offering an upscale, personalized experience that balances comfort, scenery, and fun. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a unique way to see the city, this 3-hour private yacht trip packs a punch.

What immediately draws us to this experience is the promise of stunning sights, such as Fort Sumter and Rainbow Row, all from the comfort of a well-equipped vessel. We love the idea of seeing playful dolphins in their natural habitat, and the chance to chill out with good food and drinks on deck. That said, the price tag of $1,000 for up to one person might seem steep for some, but considering the luxury and exclusivity, it’s quite fair. This tour is best suited for couples, small groups, or families who want a private, memorable day on the water with personalized touches.

Good To Know

• Luxury yacht experience with onboard amenities like heating, air conditioning, and entertainment systems
• Customizable cruise options, including daytime and sunset tours
• Great for dolphin sightings and panoramic views of Charleston’s historic landmarks
• All fuel and cruise costs included, with onboard provisions and equipment
• Ideal for private groups seeking a flexible, intimate water adventure
• A more upscale, private alternative to public harbor tours or group sailings

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Vessel: Comfort Meets Style on the Water

The Chocolate Milk yacht is a 46-foot regal sport coupe, designed for both leisure and socializing. It offers plenty of space for lounging, dining, or just catching rays—making it perfect for groups that want to be active or relax. The boat’s layout emphasizes comfort and versatility, with large sunbathing pads on both the bow and stern, plus cozy seating areas in the stern, cockpit, and galley.

Inside, the yacht feels like a floating home. It’s equipped with two bedrooms and two bathrooms, each with showers, meaning you can comfortably spend your entire cruise without feeling cramped. The climate control system (heating and AC) ensures you remain comfortable regardless of the weather. For entertainment, there are multiple flat-screen TVs, Bluetooth audio, and a grill for casual outdoor cooking.

We especially appreciated the onboard facilities for preparing and serving food—bringing your favorite snacks or drinks is straightforward. The inclusion of a microwave, convection oven, two refrigerators, and a freezer makes it easy to have a picnic on the water or simply keep beverages cold. Plus, in cooler months, blankets are available for extra comfort.

The Captain: A Warm, Attentive Guide

Captain Michael McKenzie is the face of Chocolate Milk Charters. His background as an Air Force veteran, along with years of boating experience, makes him both professional and personable. Guests frequently mention his knowledgeable nature and friendly attitude—not just guiding the boat but also sharing interesting tidbits about Charleston’s sights and marine life.

Reviewers note that Captain Mike maintains a focus on safety and ensures everyone has a good time, whether it’s a family outing, birthday celebration, or romantic cruise. His military background and community involvement lend an extra layer of trust and camaraderie. You’ll feel well taken care of, with clear communication before and during your trip.

The Experience: What to Expect on Your Cruise

This private yacht experience is designed for flexibility and personalization. The typical 3-hour cruise usually takes place in the afternoon, but customization options allow you to tailor your itinerary. You can choose to cruise during the day, enjoying the vibrant city views and potential dolphin sightings, or opt for a sunset cruise, when Charleston’s colors transform the harbor into a painter’s palette.

The Route and Sights

The yacht departs from St. Johns Harbor Yacht Marina on Johns Island, a prime location for accessing Charleston’s waterways. Once underway, you’ll cruise past landmark sites such as Fort Sumter, the historic Charleston Battery, the USS Yorktown, and the famously picturesque Rainbow Row. The Rainbow Row houses are a favorite for photo enthusiasts, with their pastel facades creating a charming backdrop.

From the water, you’ll also take in the Wagener Terrace, Ravenel Bridge, and other scenic parts of Charleston’s skyline. The captain can adjust the route to suit your interests—whether you want to linger around certain sights or focus on dolphin watching.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Wildlife and Marine Life

A highlight for many guests is the chance to spot playful dolphins in the harbor and intracoastal waterways. One reviewer specifically mentioned, “We loved seeing dolphins jump and play around the boat—it added a magical element to the trip.” The waters around Charleston are known for dolphin activity, and the knowledgeable captain keeps an eye out, making sure you don’t miss them.

Food, Drinks, and Entertainment

Since the yacht is fully equipped with a wet bar, grill, and cooking facilities, you can bring your own snacks or arrange a meal beforehand. Some guests have enjoyed bringing takeout from local Charleston eateries, dining al fresco with the cityscape as their backdrop. The on-board blender allows for refreshing cocktails like margaritas or daiquiris, making sunset cruises even more special.

Music is easy to set up via Bluetooth, creating a chill or lively atmosphere depending on your mood. You might find yourself just relaxing on the sun pads, listening to tunes, and watching the water sparkle.

Customization and Flexibility

The tour’s flexibility is a big selling point. Whether you want to extend your cruise, focus on specific sights, or keep it casual, the captain is eager to accommodate. This makes it ideal for celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, or just a day to reconnect with loved ones in a private setting.

Practical Details and Planning

The $1,000 price includes all fuel costs, making it straightforward to budget. The onboard amenities—coolers, ice, cooking utensils, and utensils—are all provided, so you only need to bring your preferred beverages and snacks. For colder months, warm blankets are available, ensuring you stay cozy.

The meeting point at St. Johns Harbor Yacht Marina is easy to find, with clear directions and parking. Once you arrive, you simply text or call the captain, who will meet you and escort you to the boat, ensuring a smooth start. The tour generally runs in the afternoons, with options for sunset cruises, which are often highlighted for their breathtaking views.

What to Wear and Bring

Light, comfortable clothing or swimsuits are recommended for warm weather, along with sunglasses and sunscreen. If the weather’s cooler, layering is advised. Feel free to go barefoot or wear rubber-soled shoes. Bringing along a camera or smartphone is a must—these views are picture-worthy.

The Value of a Private Yacht Experience

While $1,000 might seem like a substantial spend, it’s important to consider what it includes: exclusive use of a spacious, well-equipped vessel, a knowledgeable captain, and a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests. Compared to group tours, this private experience offers a more intimate and personalized way to enjoy Charleston’s scenic waterways.

Guests consistently mention how much they appreciated the professionalism of the crew, and how the boat’s amenities made the experience feel luxurious without being overly formal. Many reviewers also point out that it’s a great value for a private, well-furnished yacht, especially when celebrating special occasions.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private yacht charter is perfect for couples seeking romance, families wanting a fun day on the water, or small groups celebrating milestones. If you value exclusivity, comfort, and the ability to customize your experience, this cruise fits the bill. It’s also an excellent way to get a different perspective of Charleston, away from crowded streets and typical tours.

However, those looking for budget-friendly options or larger group tours might find the price a little steep. Still, for the quality of the vessel, personalized service, and stunning scenery, it offers a luxurious slice of Charleston’s coastal charm.

In sum, this experience is about enjoying Charleston’s beauty at your own pace aboard a beautiful yacht with all the comforts of home. It’s a versatile, memorable way to see the city from the water, perfect for special occasions or just a luxurious escape.

FAQ

Can I bring my own food and drinks onboard?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your favorite beverages and snacks. The yacht is equipped with a grill, microwave, and utensils to help you prepare and serve your food.

What is included in the price?
The $1,000 fee covers all fuel and cruise costs, as well as onboard amenities such as coolers, ice, drinkware, cooking utensils, and blankets in cooler months.

How long is the cruise?
The typical experience lasts 3 hours, with options for daytime or sunset cruises.

Where do we meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at St. Johns Harbor Yacht Marina, located at 2408 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island, SC. Directions and parking details are provided in advance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, families with children who enjoy being on the water and are comfortable with boating should find it suitable.

Can the cruise be customized?
Yes, the captain offers custom cruise options to focus on sights, activities, or specific preferences during your trip.

What should I wear?
Light, comfortable clothing or swimsuits are recommended for warm weather. In cooler months, dressing in layers and bringing blankets is advised.

To sum it up, the Charleston Private Yacht Charter with Chocolate Milk Charters offers an upscale, intimate way to explore the city’s scenic waterways. With a well-equipped vessel, knowledgeable captain, and options for customization, it’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a memorable, luxurious experience. Whether celebrating, sightseeing, or simply relaxing, this tour transforms a day on the water into a special adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: