The Best Local Charleston Cruises. Sandlapper Water Tours Blog

Did you know the history of Charleston, South Carolina, stretches back over 350 years?

With its rich history, delicious cuisine, and irresistible Southern charm, Charleston is the perfect destination for your next vacation. With so many types of sightseeing tours available, though, how can you pick the best tour for you?

Locals will tell you that the best way to experience the city is from the water. Whether you want to dive deep into history or lean back and watch dolphins frolic in the waves, a Charleston cruise is a must-do when you visit.

Read on to learn about the best cruises and sightseeing tours in Charleston SC.

Carolina Skiff Tour

Looking for an intimate experience with family or friends? How does cruising around Charleston in a private Carolina skiff sound to you?

This unique boat holds a maximum of 11 passengers, making it ideal for everything from corporate events to bachelorette parties. Because it’s a private charter, you can create your own itinerary. 

Want to visit Morris Island to photograph the historic lighthouse? Cruise around the harbor past Fort Sumter and the USS Yorktown? Drop anchor and enjoy a picnic lunch on an uninhabited barrier island?

Whatever you picture for your Charleston cruise, we’ll make it happen.

Charleston Ghost Tour

Are you ready to be scared silly? Do you want to learn about the “darker” side of Charleston on a haunted ghost tour?

Step aboard and set sail into the murkier parts of Charleston’s history, from pirate legends to Civil War battle sites. Feel your hair stand on edge as you cruise past haunted buildings and listen to stories of tragedy and horror.

You’ll also learn about local Gullah culture, a blend of African tradition with Southern lore and superstitions. Even if you don’t have your own supernatural experience, you’ll never view Charleston the same way after this tour.

Sunset Charleston Cruise

South Carolina is home to stunning sunsets, so why not enjoy one from the water?

A sunset cruise is ideal for a romantic dinner date, a family excursion, or a celebration with friends. Along the way, you’ll have a chance to enjoy the city skyline and historic sites as well as beautiful natural scenery.

Book a sunset cruise in our small, intimate skiff, or select or larger catamaran for up to 50 people. If you want snacks, drinks, or a gourmet dinner, just let us know.

Eco-Tours & Dolphin Cruises

Are you more interested in flora and fauna than historical sites? That’s okay too—our eco-tours and dolphin cruises are just for you!

Visit uninhabited barrier islands and marvel at the variety of birdlife, from pelicans to herons to egrets. Learn about the area’s crabs from the local crab pots or scan the shores for shark’s teeth and seashells.

On the way back, you’ll hopefully get to see dolphins playing the wake of the boat. This Charleston cruise is sure to be a hit for the entire family.

The Best Sightseeing Tours in Charleston SC

Well, there you have it—a list of the best cruises from Charleston.

Whether you want to do some sightseeing, catch the sunset, or learn the city’s best ghost stories, there’s a Charleston cruise that’s perfect for you.

There’s no better way to experience the beauty and charm of South Carolina than from the water. Click here for our full schedule of boat tours and book one for your upcoming visit!