3 hour BYOB Morning Boat and Beach Excursion on Southern Charm

A Casual Look at Charleston’s 3-Hour BYOB Boat and Beach Excursion on Southern Charm

If you’re dreaming of exploring Charleston from the water with a laid-back, personalized touch, this 3-hour BYOB boat and beach trip offers just that. It’s a great way to check out the harbor, enjoy some downtime on private beaches, and make the experience your own, all in a relaxed, intimate setting.

What really caught our eye about this tour are two things: first, the chance to cruise in style with a private captain, which means no crowded boats or rushed itineraries. Second, the flexibility to stop at secluded islands for shelling, shark tooth hunting, or simply lounging in the sun. That said, it’s worth noting that extra items like beach chairs or coolers cost a little extra, so plan accordingly if you want to bring your gear.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost of $499 for up to 6 people—which offers good value for a private experience but might seem steep if you’re traveling solo or as a pair. This tour suits anyone who wants a personalized, relaxed day on the water with the freedom to customize what they do, whether that’s sightseeing, beach lounging, or beachcombing.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience with your own captain and boat.
• Flexible itinerary: choose to cruise, beach, or combine both.
• Ideal for small groups (up to 6), making it intimate and personal.
• All about comfort and convenience, with included amenities like a cooler, Bluetooth stereo, and emergency supplies.
• Extra gear available for rent, from beach chairs to coolers, for a more party-ready beach day.
• Great for those who love the water, with dolphin sightings and the chance to hunt for shark teeth.

The Experience: A Detailed Breakdown

The Boat and Its Capabilities

The Southern Charm is a private center console that can hit speeds of up to 30 mph. That’s speedy enough to cover a lot of ground in just three hours, giving you a broad view of Charleston’s harbor and surrounding sights. Its sleek design makes for smooth cruising, and it’s big enough to comfortably fit your group of up to six.

Starting Point and Duration

You’ll meet at 17 Lockwood Dr in Charleston, an accessible spot near public transportation, which is handy if you want to avoid renting a car or prefer public transit. The total experience lasts around 3 to 4 hours, giving ample time for cruising, beach stops, and perhaps a leisurely lunch. Since it’s a private tour, the schedule is flexible—your captain will tailor the day to your preferences.

The Itinerary and Highlights

Cruising Past Charleston’s Landmarks

The trip begins with a sail past the Charleston Battery, where you’ll get a front-row seat to the stunning waterfront homes and historic architecture. It’s a scenic, photo-worthy moment that sets the tone for a day of relaxed sightseeing.

Passing Iconic Structures

Next, the boat typically passes the impressive Ravenel Bridge—a feat of engineering—and shares stories about its history. This bridge is a visual centerpiece of Charleston’s skyline, and passing underneath is an experience in itself.

Yorktown Aircraft Carrier and Fort Sumter

You may also get close to the Yorktown aircraft carrier, offering a glimpse into Charleston’s naval significance. Sometimes the boat approaches Fort Sumter, giving you a perfect vantage point to appreciate its role in American history. These stops aren’t just about seeing the sights—they’re about understanding the stories behind them.

The Beach Stops

Once you’ve seen the harbor, the real fun begins. The boat drops anchor at secluded island beaches—ideal spots for shelling, shark tooth hunting, or just soaking up the sun. These beaches are away from the crowds, giving you a peaceful spot to relax.

You can bring beach chairs, towels, and coolers (for an extra fee) to make it feel like your own private slice of paradise. The captain can also set up a beach cabana or umbrella if you prefer shaded lounging.

Beach Activities and Personalization

Reviews highlight how much travelers enjoyed the flexibility to add on amenities like water hammocks or JBL speakers, transforming the beach into a fun, social space. One reviewer mentioned their group loved floating in the water hammock, which was “perfect for laying in the water on a hot day.” That level of customization really makes this tour stand out—your day can be as active or as relaxed as you want.

Food and Drinks

You’re welcome to bring your own food and beverages onboard, turning the trip into a floating picnic or party. Plus, options such as lunch at one of Shem Creek’s many restaurants are available if you want to leave the boat for a bit and explore Charleston’s culinary scene.

Included Amenities

Your booking includes a cooler with ice, bottled water, and soft drinks, so staying hydrated is easy. The boat also boasts a Bluetooth stereo system, perfect for setting your vibe, whether that’s chill tunes or lively beach beats. There’s an emergency porto potty onboard, and rain ponchos are available just in case clouds roll in unexpectedly.

Extra Rentals and Costs

While the boat comes with a large cooler and ice, renting a Yeti cooler with additional ice costs $20, and beach gear like chairs, towels, and umbrellas can be rented for $5-$10 each. A beach cabana setup is available for $30, making your beach day more comfortable if you’re planning to stay a while.

What Travelers Say

The reviews underscore how much people appreciated the personalized approach. One reviewer gushed: “Dustin did an awesome job taking us around some sights and to the beach where we could swim! Really fun and informative. Plus we saw dolphins!” It’s clear that the captain’s local knowledge and friendly attitude make a difference.

Another mentioned how the ability to customize their trip was a highlight, opting for a mix of sightseeing and relaxing at the beach. The added water hammock and playing their music on the Bluetooth speaker made the experience feel lively and tailored.

A third reviewer emphasized the thoughtfulness of the crew, highlighting how they kept everyone hydrated, took pictures, and made sure floats and gear were ready before arrival. This kind of attentive service elevates what might otherwise seem like a simple boat ride.

Price and Value

At $499 for up to six people, this private tour offers a good deal when split among a small group. It’s especially attractive if you’re seeking an exclusive experience where everything is tailored to you. Considering the included amenities—water, soft drinks, a stereo system, and the flexibility to craft your perfect day—the price reflects a premium, personalized experience.

However, the extra costs for beach gear and optional upgrades mean you should budget accordingly if you want a fully equipped beach day. For many, the overall value is high—especially given the chance to see multiple harbor sights, visit quiet beaches, and enjoy a relaxed, private trip.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is a fantastic choice for small groups or families who value privacy and customization. If you’re looking for a relaxed, personalized day on the water, with opportunities to beachcomb or just lounge, this boat tour hits the mark. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate a combination of sightseeing and leisure, with the flexibility to make the trip your own.

While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly or kid-centric, families with older children might find it a fun, safe adventure. Just keep in mind the extra costs for gear and plan ahead if bringing kids or special supplies.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a private experience, so it’s easy to tailor to your needs. Just consider your group’s comfort with boating and water activities.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Absolutely. You’re encouraged to bring any food or beverages onboard to make your trip more personal.

What gear can I rent, and how much does it cost?
You can rent beach towels ($5 each), chairs ($5 each), a cabana setup ($30), a JBL Bluetooth speaker ($10), a beach cooler with ice ($20), and umbrellas ($10).

How long does the tour last?
It runs about 3 to 4 hours, providing enough time for cruising, beach stops, and optional activities like lunch.

What sights will I see during the cruise?
You’ll pass by Charleston’s Battery, the Ravenel Bridge, the Yorktown aircraft carrier, and possibly get close to Fort Sumter, all with commentary from your captain.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour is designed for up to 6 people, making it perfect for small groups wanting a private outing.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this private boat and beach excursion in Charleston is a versatile, laid-back way to see the harbor while enjoying some quality time on secluded beaches. It offers a blend of iconic sights, personalized service, and the freedom to craft your perfect day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a relaxed family outing, or just want to escape the crowds and explore at your pace, this tour delivers.

It’s best suited for groups who want a customized experience with plenty of options—from sightseeing to beach lounging—and don’t mind paying a bit extra for flexibility and comfort. If that sounds like your idea of a perfect day in Charleston, this tour might just be your next favorite adventure.