Charleston: Private Yacht Charter, BYOB & Dolphin Sighting

Summary

Private sailing in Charleston harbor with dolphins and city views

You’ll sail past Charleston’s historic skyline on your private yacht charter, with BYOB drinks in hand and dolphins sometimes swimming alongside. See Fort Sumter from the water and catch sunset under Ravenel Bridge. With a local crew taking care of details, you’ll have space to relax or celebrate — just bring your favorite people.

What’s the experience like?

Hands gripping the cool rail, I watched our captain — I think his name was Mike — untie the lines while my friends tried to decide if it was too early to open the prosecco. The dock at Ashley River Marina smelled faintly of salt and sunscreen, and there was this easy feeling in the air, like nobody was in a rush. We’d parked at 17 Lockwood Drive (it’s a short walk) and met Mike right outside the marina building — he waved us over before we could even check Google Maps again.

I didn’t expect how quiet it would get once we left the docks. Just water slapping gently against the hull and that low hum of conversation as Charleston’s skyline slid by. Our guide pointed out Fort Sumter off to the right — I’d read about it but seeing it from the water made me imagine all those old stories differently. Someone spotted dolphins near the bow (not me, I always miss them at first), and suddenly everyone was up front laughing, phones out. The sun felt warm but not harsh; there was a bit of wind so my hat nearly flew off twice.

We brought our own snacks (Mike said BYOB is totally fine), but next time I might try their catering because balancing cheese on a moving boat is harder than you’d think. The Ravenel Bridge looked massive overhead — there’s this moment when you catch the sunset behind downtown Charleston and everything goes kind of gold for a second. Didn’t get a perfect photo but honestly, I still think about that view. Our crew never hovered but always seemed to appear with more cold water just when we needed it. Two hours went by fast; docking felt almost too soon.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Charleston harbor sailing and sightseeing

• Set sail from the docks
• See downtown Charleston from harbor
• Sail by Fort Sumter
• View Ravenel Bridge at sunset
• Enjoy historical sites from yacht

Top questions

How long does the private yacht charter last?

All tours are 2.5 hours long and circle Charleston harbor before returning.

Can we bring our own food and drinks?

Yes, BYOB is welcome and you can bring your own picnic or snacks.

Is there a maximum group size for this yacht tour?

The charter allows up to 6 guests per USCG regulations.

Where do we meet for boarding?

You meet your captain in front of the marina building at Harborage at Ashley River Marina (33 Lockwood Dr), after parking at 17 Lockwood Drive.

Are children or infants allowed on board?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

Is dolphin watching guaranteed on this yacht trip?

Dolphin sightings are common but not guaranteed during your sail around Charleston harbor.

Can we request catering or a photographer?

You can request gourmet catering or a professional photographer for your charter if desired.

What’s included in the price?

Bottled water, soda/pop, crew service, and use of either a 32ft or 36ft yacht are included.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water and soda served by your professional crew while you sail past Charleston landmarks like Fort Sumter and Ravenel Bridge; you’re free to bring your own drinks or snacks (BYOB), plus options for gourmet catering or even booking a photographer if you want extra memories before returning to dock.