Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Got questions before you cruise? We’ve got answers!

Whether you’re setting sail on a relaxing Sunset Cruise, joining us for a Dolphin & Nature Tour, or diving into Charleston’s haunted history on our Ghost Tour, we’re here to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure. Browse our FAQs below for helpful details about what to expect, what to bring, and everything you need to know before you hop aboard with Sandlapper Water Tours.

General Tour Information

Our largest boat, The Palmetto, features comfortable seating, shaded and open-air areas, a restroom, a beverage and snack bar, and a spacious deck.

The Carolina Blue and The Skiff both feature comfortable open-air seating (no roof). You’re welcome to bring your own snacks and beverages on both of these boats(unless noted otherwise), and our crew is happy to assist with coolers or storage. The Carolina Blue has a restroom, but the Skiff does not.

Yes. Paid parking is available at and around the Charleston Maritime Center, as well as in nearby public lots and street parking. We recommend arriving 30 minutes early to allow time for parking and boarding.

All ages are welcome for all cruises except the Ghost Tour, where children under 3 years are not permitted. An adult must accompany children under 18. For safety reasons, infants and toddlers must remain seated or held while underway.

Reservations are highly recommended, as space is limited and tours often sell out. However, we do have a ticket booth at the dock to accept walk-up passengers if there is room.

Safety is always our top priority. If the captain determines that weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be delayed, rescheduled, or refunded. Weather-based decisions are made as close to launch time as possible since in South Carolina, the weather can change very quickly. Light rain does not usually cancel a trip, so we encourage guests to bring weather-appropriate clothing.

All of our tours are service dog friendly. We also welcome well-behaved, non-service dogs under 40 lbs on our Dolphin & Nature Tours. Please note that pet owners are fully responsible for their dogs during the cruise.

Booking is easy! Visit SandlapperWaterTours.com and click the “Book Now” button on any page to view available tour dates and times. While walk-ups are welcome, tours often sell out, so we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot.
Need help? Give us a call at 843-849-8687, and our team will be happy to assist!

Sunset Crusies

Departure times vary throughout the year based on sunset. For the time of upcoming trips, reference the schedule page on our website. Your confirmation email will also include the exact time for your date.

Absolutely! Our private sunset cruises are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, and small celebrations, and can happen on any of our three boats. We can customize the experience with music, catering, and décor.

Yes! Our sunset cruises are great for all ages—families, couples, and groups alike enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and beautiful views of Charleston Harbor, and our music is suitable for the whole family.

We have two Sunset Cruises:

  • On The Palmetto, we offer beer and wine, plus an assortment of snacks and refreshments for purchase at our cash bar.
  • On the Carolina Blue, guests are welcome to bring snacks and beverages, and we will provide a large cooler.

Dolphin & Nature Crusies

You’ll cruise through Charleston Harbor and surrounding waterways to spot Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, seabirds, and possibly sea turtles. Along the way, your naturalist guide shares insights into local ecosystems, barrier islands, and Lowcountry wildlife.

Our captains follow responsible viewing guidelines and maintain safe, respectful distances from wildlife. We never chase or feed animals — all encounters are natural and conservation-minded.

Morning and late afternoon trips often provide the calmest waters and most active wildlife, but dolphins can be seen throughout the day and into the “bluing hour” around sunset.

Our knowledgeable guides share fascinating facts about Charleston’s marine life, history, ecology, and local landmarks – it’s both educational and fun!

Our Charleston locals are Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, known for their intelligence, playful behavior, and close-knit pods. Fun Fact: A tactic called “strand feeding” is completely unique to South Carolina dolphins … this is where a pod works together to drive fish onto the shore, where the dolphins can lie on the sand and eat them.

Haunted Ghost & History Cruises

You’ll hear tales of Charleston’s haunted past – from pirate legends to Revolutionary War spirits and eerie harbor sightings – all while cruising under the stars.

On The Ghost Tour onboard The Palmetto, we offer beer and wine, plus an assortment of snacks and refreshments for purchase at our cash bar.