Private Charleston Waterway Cruise | 2 Hour
Private Trip
Private 2hour cruise navigates Charleston's scenic waterways dailyCustomizable route includes Ravenel Bridge and historic Shem CreekAccommodates up to 6 guests with flexible dining stops
There's something magical about seeing Charleston from the water, and this private 2-hour cruise puts you right in the captain's seat when it comes to planning your perfect day on the waterways. Whether you're celebrating an anniversary, hosting out-of-town guests, or just want to escape the crowds for a few hours, this top-rated cruise experience lets you call the shots while we handle the navigation.
Your private Charleston waterway adventure starts with flexible departure times between 9 AM and 8 PM – perfect whether you're craving morning coffee on the bow or sunset cocktails as we cruise past the city skyline. We'll pick up your group of up to six passengers and set course through the Intracoastal Waterway, where Charleston's maritime history comes alive around every bend. The route takes you under the iconic Ravenel Bridge, giving you those postcard-perfect shots from angles most tourists never see. From there, we head into Shem Creek, where shrimp boats still work the waters just like they have for generations. The beauty of going private means we can adjust our course based on what your group wants to see – maybe you're interested in the historic plantations along the Ashley River, or perhaps you want to cruise by Rainbow Row and see how the Holy City looks from a sailor's perspective. We can even coordinate stops at waterfront restaurants if you want to grab a bite or a cold drink during your cruise.
Our fully equipped vessels are designed specifically for Charleston's diverse waterways, from the deeper channels of the harbor to the shallow creeks where dolphins love to play. Each boat comes with modern GPS navigation, safety equipment, and comfortable seating that lets everyone in your group enjoy the ride. The captain knows these waters like the back of their hand – from hidden coves where you might spot a great blue heron fishing to the best vantage points for photography. We'll point out landmarks like Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney, and the historic Cooper River Bridge remains while sharing stories that bring Charleston's maritime heritage to life. The boats are stable and comfortable for all experience levels, so whether you're a seasoned boater or this is your first time on Charleston waters, you'll feel confident and relaxed. During your cruise, we'll adjust our speed and route based on weather conditions and your group's preferences – some folks love the gentle rock of the harbor swells, while others prefer the calmer backwaters where Spanish moss drapes over ancient oaks right to the water's edge.
Charleston's waterways are teeming with wildlife that makes every cruise feel like a nature documentary. Atlantic bottlenose dolphins are the stars of the show, and they're active year-round in these waters. You'll often see them hunting in pods, especially around Shem Creek and near the jetties where baitfish congregate. Spring through fall brings the best dolphin activity, particularly during incoming tides when they're feeding. These playful mammals aren't shy around boats – they'll often ride the bow wave and show off with impressive jumps and tail slaps that'll have your whole group reaching for their cameras. Brown pelicans are another crowd favorite, especially during their diving feeding frenzies that happen throughout the warmer months. These prehistoric-looking birds put on quite a show when they spot schools of menhaden or mullet, folding their wings and plunging headfirst into the water with surprising accuracy. Great blue herons are the patient fishermen of Charleston waters, standing motionless in the shallows before striking with lightning speed. You'll spot them year-round, but they're most active during early morning and late afternoon cruises when the light is golden and the fish are moving. Manatees occasionally make appearances in the warmer months, particularly in the quieter creek systems where they graze on sea grass. While sightings aren't guaranteed, when these gentle giants do show up, it's always a highlight that guests talk about for years.
This customer favorite private cruise experience books up fast, especially during peak season and for those coveted sunset departure times. With only six passengers per trip, you're getting an intimate, personalized experience that larger tour boats simply can't match. The flexibility to customize your route, combined with our local expertise and fully equipped vessels, makes this the best way to see Charleston from the water. Whether you're planning a romantic evening cruise, a family celebration, or just want to show friends why Charleston is called the Holy City, this private waterway tour delivers world-class views and memories that'll last long after you're back on dry land. The 20% gratuity is already included in your booking, so all you need to bring is your camera, sunscreen, and sense of adventure. Reserve your private Charleston cruise today and discover why locals and visitors alike consider this the top way to experience our historic waterways.
The Viking is your floating home base for exploring Charleston's stunning waterways in style. This impressive 47-foot motorboat comes powered by twin 800-horsepower MAN engines, giving you smooth cruising through the Intracoastal Waterway and around Shem Creek. Step aboard and you'll find everything needed for a comfortable 2-hour cruise - from the fully enclosed, air-conditioned cabin to the flybridge offering panoramic views of the Ravenel Bridge and Charleston's historic skyline. The boat's equipped with modern navigation gear including GPS and radar, plus creature comforts like a full kitchen, refrigerator, and even a shower and bed if you want to extend your time on the water. With seating for up to 6 guests, there's plenty of room to relax while taking in the Lowcountry scenery. The multimedia system keeps everyone entertained, while the icebox ensures your drinks stay cold as you cruise past Charleston's waterfront landmarks.
Charleston