Myrtle Beach to Charleston with Horse & Carriage Ride, Harbor Cruise, Boone Hall

If you’re contemplating a day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston, this tour offers a full package designed to showcase some of South Carolina’s most beloved sights. We’ve looked into the details, reviews, and features to give you a clear picture of what this adventure entails. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of scenic boat rides, or just looking to explore Charleston’s charm without the hassle of planning on your own, this trip could be just what you need.

What we really like about this experience is its all-inclusive nature—it takes the stress out of organizing multiple activities and transportation. Plus, the combination of a carriage tour, a harbor cruise, and a visit to Boone Hall Plantation means you get a well-rounded taste of Charleston’s historic and scenic appeal. On the downside, some reviews mention that the time at certain stops could feel rushed, or that the harbor cruise might not be as detailed in storytelling as some travelers would prefer. Still, this tour is often recommended for first-timers or those wanting to see the highlights efficiently.

If you’re someone who appreciates guided experiences and prefers having a lot of logistics handled for you, this trip is likely to suit your style. It’s also ideal for travelers wanting a rundown of Charleston in one day, with a focus on comfort and convenience. Keep in mind that, given the full schedule and multiple stops, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long day and a fair amount of walking or standing.

Key Points

• Convenience: Round-trip transportation from Myrtle Beach makes logistics easy.
• Diverse Experiences: Carriage ride, harbor cruise, and plantation tour cover many facets of Charleston’s charm.
• All-Inclusive: Boxed lunch and guided tours simplify planning.
• Time Management: The itinerary packs a lot into one day, so be prepared for a busy schedule.
• Group Size: Limited to 48 travelers, maintaining a friendly, less crowded atmosphere.
• Reviews: Many travelers praise the guides and smooth logistics, though some mention limited time at stops.

The Itinerary Breakdown — What to Expect

Departure and Early Morning Pickup

Starting at 7:00 am from Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, the tour kicks off early. This allows for a full day of sightseeing but means you’ll need to be ready for an early start. The bus ride is part of the experience, offering a chance to relax and get into vacation mode before arriving in Charleston.

Carriage Ride through Historic Charleston

Your first stop is a guided horse-drawn carriage tour around the downtown area. This is often highlighted as a favorite part— travelers love how the guides share interesting stories with a touch of humor. You’ll see Charleston’s historic streets, squares, and landmarks from a charming perspective, led by a knowledgeable guide. As one reviewer noted, the carriage ride was “informative and fun,” with the guide providing a lively narration. Expect to meet Eli or Roland, the carriage horses, who are well cared for and add an authentic touch to the experience.

Some reviews mention that the carriage guide’s storytelling is engaging, adding value to the ride beyond just sightseeing. However, since the tour is only about an hour, don’t expect to see everything or get a deep dive into every story—it’s more a taste of Charleston’s historic vibe.

Exploring the Charleston City Market

After the carriage, there’s a 30-minute stop at the Old City Market. This is your chance to browse for souvenirs, grab a quick snack, or just soak in the lively atmosphere. Some travelers felt this was a bit rushed, given the narrow window for shopping, but it does give a glimpse into local crafts and flavors.

Charleston Harbor Cruise

Next, you’ll board the Carolina Belle for a 90-minute narrated harbor cruise. This is often praised as a highlight, with the boat offering stunning views of the harbor, city skyline, and maritime activity. The narration, as noted by reviewers, is informative and engaging, offering insights into Charleston’s ports, history, and the significance of the harbor.

Lunch is served on the boat during this cruise—a boxed deli-style lunch with options like ham, turkey, cheese, and bread. Many find this convenient and tasty, especially considering the packed schedule. You can purchase additional snacks or drinks onboard if you wish, but it’s handy to have a meal included without extra planning.

While most travelers appreciate the cruise, some mention that it’s more scenic than deeply historical. If you’re looking for detailed maritime history, you might wish for more storytelling, but the views alone make it worthwhile.

Boone Hall Plantation

The last major stop is Boone Hall Plantation, a classic Southern estate. Here, you’ll explore the plantation grounds, gardens, and house with a guided tour. The estate’s Avenue of the Oaks is especially photogenic, and many reviews highlight the beauty of the gardens and the informative guides. It’s a great spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Reviews note that the tour at Boone Hall is quite engaging, with the guides sharing stories about the house, the land, and its significance. However, some travelers found that the time at Boone Hall felt a bit long, with about 45 minutes of free self-guided touring that could be more efficiently managed. The house itself is newer than some might expect—a modern construction rather than an ancient plantation house—so those expecting an old historic mansion might be surprised.

Return to Myrtle Beach

The trip wraps up with the bus returning to Myrtle Beach, arriving roughly around 5:30 pm. This long day is packed but generally well-organized, allowing you to soak in enough of Charleston’s highlights without the stress of planning each step.

What Travelers Are Saying: The Honest Truth

Many reviews are glowing, particularly about the convenience and variety of stops. “Our driver Wendy was excellent,” one reviewer shared, highlighting friendly, attentive service. The carriage guides, like Hunter, receive praise for their storytelling skills, making the experience more vibrant and engaging.

The scenic harbor cruise is another favorite, with many commenting on the beautiful views and well-narrated commentary. “The boat tour was beautiful and very well narrated,” said one traveler, emphasizing how relaxing and informative the cruise was.

However, there are some criticisms worth noting. A few travelers felt that the time allocated for stops like the City Market or Boone Hall could be tighter, making the day feel somewhat rushed. Several reviews also mention the early start as a downside—waking up early and enduring a long day isn’t for everyone.

A small number of reviews report logistical issues like vehicle breakdowns or scheduling errors, which is important to keep in mind. Always check the latest reviews before booking, especially if recent trip cancellations or issues have been reported.

The Value of This Tour

At $215 per person, this tour offers a lot—transport, guided tours, a cruise, and a meal. It’s a good deal for those who prefer to see multiple attractions without the hassle of renting a car or navigating on their own. The inclusion of all taxes and fees, plus the convenience of pickup, makes it straightforward.

That said, it’s a fairly full day, and some travelers feel it’s almost too much to comfortably enjoy every stop. If you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or has specific interests, you might find the schedule too tight. But if you’re eager to check off several top sights in one go, this experience delivers.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is a particularly good fit for first-time visitors or those wanting a broad overview of Charleston without the hassle of planning each detail. It suits travelers who enjoy guided narratives, scenic boat rides, and historical spots, all bundled into a manageable day. It’s also suitable for those comfortable with a busy schedule and long hours on a bus.

If you’re traveling with a companion who enjoys exploring multiple attractions rather than focusing intensely on one site, this is a smart choice. It balances sightseeing with comfort, offering a seamless way to discover Charleston’s highlights.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from Myrtle Beach is part of the package, making the logistics smooth.

What is the start time? The tour departs at 7:00 am from Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach, so an early morning wake-up is necessary.

How long is the entire trip? It lasts approximately 10.5 hours, including all stops and travel time, so be prepared for a full day.

Are meals included? Yes, a boxed lunch is provided during the harbor cruise, but additional food and drinks are at your own expense if desired.

Can children participate? Most travelers can participate, but the tour is best suited for those comfortable with a long day and some walking.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather, and if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there free time at each stop? The schedule is fairly tight, with limited free time—expect about 30 minutes at the City Market and 45 minutes at Boone Hall.

This comprehensive day trip from Myrtle Beach to Charleston offers a mix of scenic views, history, and relaxed guided tours. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a hassle-free way to see some of Charleston’s most iconic sights without doing all the planning yourself. The guided carriage ride and harbor cruise add a special charm, while Boone Hall provides a picturesque and educational finish to your day.

While it’s not perfect—some stops are a tad rushed, and the schedule is ambitious—it remains a good value for those wanting a full day of exploration. Remember, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided experiences, don’t mind a long day, and want to maximize their time in Charleston efficiently.

If you’re looking for a balanced, well-organized tour that combines history, scenery, and comfort, this could be just the trip for you. Just be sure to pack your patience and a sense of adventure.

Happy exploring!