Travelers looking to enjoy Charleston from a different perspective will find the Private Sunset BYOB Boat Ride on Southern Charm a compelling option. This experience promises a two to three-hour cruise around the historic harbor, complete with a knowledgeable captain, scenic stops, and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a peaceful way to soak in Charleston’s natural beauty, this tour offers a blend of sightseeing, leisure, and private luxury.
Our review reflects the feedback from those who’ve experienced Southern Charm firsthand, highlighting what makes this cruise a standout. From its stunning views of historic mansions and bridges to its personalized approach, this tour offers a lot for the price. But, as with any water-based adventure, weather can be a factor to consider. Overall, it’s best suited for couples, small groups, or families eager to enjoy a customized, scenic experience in a relaxed setting.
Three things we love about this experience:
- The ability to bring your own food and drinks, adding a personal touch
- Passengers’ access to numerous iconic Charleston sights in just a couple of hours
- The friendly, knowledgeable captains who make the cruise informative yet fun
A possible consideration:
- The tour is weather-dependent, so scheduling during clear days is ideal to avoid cancellations or disappointments.
Who should consider this tour?
This experience is perfect for small groups or families seeking a private, flexible, scenic outing with a laid-back vibe. It’s especially suited for those celebrating special moments like birthdays or honeymoons, or simply travelers wanting a unique perspective on Charleston’s harbor.
Good To Know
- Private and customizable: Only your group participates, with options to bring food and drinks onboard.
- Rich sightseeing: Pass by Charleston Battery, historic homes, Ravenel Bridge, Yorktown aircraft carrier, and sometimes close to Fort Sumter.
- Comfort and convenience: Includes a cooler with ice, soft drinks, Bluetooth stereo, rain ponchos, and emergency potty.
- Speed and coverage: Reaching speeds of 30 mph, the boat can cover a lot of ground in two hours.
- Flexible options: Drop off at Shem Creek restaurants or opt for catering through local vendors.
- Authentic reviews praise the friendly guides like Captain Dustin and Captain Skye, highlighting their attentiveness and local knowledge.
The Experience: What It’s Like on the Water
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The Itinerary Breakdown
This tour begins at 17 Lockwood Drive, where you’ll meet your private captain. The boat, Southern Charm, is a sleek, well-maintained vessel that can comfortably hold up to six guests, making it ideal for intimate groups. Its speed of up to 30 mph means you’ll spend less time cruising and more time soaking in the sights.
The cruise kicks off with a gentle sail past the Charleston Battery, where you’ll get an up-close look at the stately pre-antebellum homes lining the waterfront. The reviews often mention how captivating it is to see these historic mansions in the context of a sunset cruise—some guests describe it as a “beautiful sunset, very relaxing way to end the day”. The captain provides commentary on these landmarks, enriching the experience with tidbits about their history and architecture.
Next, the boat typically passes by the Ravenel Bridge, one of Charleston’s most iconic structures, often discussed in the reviews for its impressive span and lighting at dusk. The captain shares stories about its construction and significance, giving a greater appreciation for this engineering marvel.
Then, the cruise often moves toward the Yorktown aircraft carrier, where a little naval history can be appreciated, especially for history buffs. The host might also point out the nearby Fort Sumter, a site whose historical importance is hard to overlook, with some guests noting they can get surprisingly close for photos.
Throughout the journey, guests can enjoy the calming wind, stunning views, and the gentle sound of the boat stereo—Bluetooth-enabled, so you can bring your own playlist for sunset vibes. The boat’s amenities include a cooler filled with ice and bottled water, plus soft drinks—all included.
Secluded Beaches and Unique Stops
One of the highlights is stopping at secluded island beaches where guests can hunt for shark teeth, shell, or simply relax and enjoy the sunset. Reviewers often mention how these stops are quiet and pristine, perfect for a quick swim or a peaceful moment away from the crowds. These stops are not just scenic but also interactive, giving guests the chance to collect shells or search for shark teeth—something that adds a fun, treasure-hunt element to the trip.
Lunch, Dinner, or Snacks
Guests have the flexibility to bring any food or beverages onboard, which is a big plus. Whether you’d like to pack a picnic, cheese, charcuterie, or simply enjoy a drink or two, the tour accommodates it. For those interested in dining after the cruise, the option to be dropped off at Shem Creek restaurants offers a convenient way to extend your Charleston experience with excellent local seafood or tapas. Alternatively, you can arrange catering through local vendors like Caviar and Bananas, adding a gourmet touch to your private outing.
Comfort and Practicalities
For unpredictable weather, the boat provides rain ponchos, ensuring comfort even in unexpected showers. The emergency porto potty is a thoughtful addition, especially for small groups. The boat is designed for a relaxed experience, with enough space to stretch out and enjoy the views.
Authentic Insights: What Past Guests Say
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Guests consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, often mentioning captains like Dustin and Skye by name. One reviewer notes, “Captain Dustin was attentive and Southern Charm was in pristine condition. We cruised around the harbor while stopping at many highlights and he providing some cool info.” Others appreciated how guides went beyond the basics—spotting dolphins, taking pictures, and sharing local stories.
The reviews also emphasize how memorable the sunsets are, with one guest describing it as a “beautiful sunset, very relaxing way to end the day.” Several travelers highlight how the activity made celebrations extra special, especially birthdays and family gatherings, thanks to the calm waters and accommodating captains.
The Value for Money
At $499 per group (up to 6), the tour offers a private, personalized experience that feels worth the cost. The inclusion of soft drinks, bottled water, and amenities like rain ponchos and a Bluetooth stereo enhances the value. For small groups, the exclusivity and flexibility to bring your own snacks and drinks make this a well-rounded, cost-effective choice compared to larger, less intimate tours.
Practical Details
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- Duration: 2 to 3 hours, allowing ample time for sightseeing and relaxation
- Price: $499 for up to 6 guests, which breaks down to a reasonable rate for a private, scenic cruise
- Meeting Point: 17 Lockwood Drive, Charleston—near public transportation options
- Availability: Confirmations are immediate, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
- Weather: The experience is weather-dependent; poor conditions may result in rescheduling or a full refund
Conclusions: Is This Tour Worth It?
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This private sunset boat ride offers an intimate, flexible, and scenic way to view Charleston’s harbor. If you’re a small group looking for a personalized experience with a knowledgeable captain, this stands out as an excellent option. The ability to bring your own food and drinks and the inclusion of amenities make it a convenient, customizable outing.
The cruise’s highlight—stunning sunset views combined with close-up sightings of historic sites and quiet beaches—creates a memorable moment that many reviews describe as “relaxing” and “beautiful.” Its high ratings and numerous positive comments about the guides’ friendliness suggest this is a well-organized, enjoyable activity.
However, keep in mind the weather dependency; choosing a clear day will ensure the best experience. Also, the boat’s capacity makes it ideal for intimate groups rather than large parties.
This tour is best suited for couples, small groups, or families eager to explore Charleston’s harbor from a comfortable, private boat and enjoy a peaceful yet scenic evening.
FAQ
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Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you may bring any food or beverages onboard, giving you the freedom to pack a picnic, snacks, or drinks of your choice.
How long is the cruise?
The typical duration is around 2 to 3 hours, providing enough time to see the sights and relax.
What sights will I see during the cruise?
You will sail past the Charleston Battery, historic mansions, Ravenel Bridge, Yorktown aircraft carrier, and sometimes get close to Fort Sumter.
Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate.
What amenities are included?
A cooler with ice and bottled water, soft drinks, a Bluetooth stereo for music, rain ponchos, and an emergency porto potty.
What is the price?
It costs $499 for up to six guests, making it a good value for a personalized, scenic cruise.
What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is it suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the relaxed nature makes it family-friendly, especially for those comfortable on boats.
This private sunset cruise on Southern Charm offers a relaxing, scenic, and customizable way to enjoy Charleston’s harbor. Whether celebrating, sightseeing, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, it delivers a memorable experience with a personal touch.