Aloha Wednesday Sunset Sail – Drinks Included – Lux Catamaran

If you’re looking to unwind and take in some of Charleston’s scenic beauty, the Aloha Wednesday Sunset Sail might just be worth considering. While we haven’t personally hopped aboard, reviews and detailed info suggest it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a laid-back, scenic escape on the water. I love how this tour combines the relaxed island vibe with impressive views of Charleston’s skyline and historic landmarks—all while offering complimentary drinks. But, a quick heads-up: it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues due to the dock boarding process.

This experience seems perfect for travelers who want a touch of luxury without the hefty price tag, especially if you’re into picturesque sunsets, history, or simply casual cruising. Whether you’re solo, with friends, or a small family, the friendly crew and stunning scenery make this a memorable midweek treat.

Key Points

• Relaxing 2-hour cruise with drinks included, perfect for unwinding.
• Stunning views of Charleston’s skyline, historic forts, and bridges.
• Family-friendly for ages 6 and up, with some considerations for mobility.
• Informative guides enhance the experience with friendly, knowledgeable service.
• Great value at $76 per person, especially given the included beverages.
• Ideal for casual travelers wanting a scenic, laid-back outing on a luxury catamaran.

What Is the Aloha Wednesday Sunset Sail All About?

This tour offers a two-hour cruise on a spacious, comfortable catamaran, departing from Shem Creek, a lively waterfront spot in Mount Pleasant. It promises a midweek escape filled with island vibes, stunning harbor views, and plenty of opportunity to relax while sipping on complimentary drinks — including sodas, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages (for those 21+). It’s a good way to enjoy Charleston’s beauty from the water without a long or strenuous journey, making it accessible for most travelers.

The price, at $76 per person, is quite reasonable considering the experience—especially since drinks and the crew’s service are included. That said, some specialty drinks like local craft beers, tipsy wine coolers, and CBD seltzers are not part of the package, so if you’re after those, you’d need to purchase separately.

The Itinerary: A Cruise Through Charleston’s Highlights

This tour covers some of Charleston’s most iconic sights, making it a comprehensive water-based overview of the city’s character.

Starting Point: Shem Creek

Your adventure begins at Shem Creek Park, a lively waterfront hub packed with boats, restaurants, and marsh views. The setting is perfect for a relaxed start, and the fact that it’s free to walk around means you can arrive early, soak in the scenery, or grab a quick snack before setting sail.

Charleston Skyline & Historic Downtown

The first part of the cruise takes you past downtown Charleston, where you’ll admire the pastel-colored buildings and historic architecture from the water. The skyline offers a fresh perspective on the city’s charm—something that photos and memories will thank you for.

Fort Sumter

As the boat leaves Shem Creek, you’ll get a view of Fort Sumter, famous for firing the opening shots of the Civil War. Whether you’re a history buff or not, seeing this landmark from the water adds a layer of depth and context to your Charleston experience.

Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

Passing beneath this towering cable-stayed bridge is a highlight. It connects downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant and is an engineering marvel. From the water, it’s a striking sight—perfect for photos and a reminder of the city’s blend of history and modernity.

USS Yorktown

The cruise continues past the USS Yorktown, the massive aircraft carrier docked at Patriots Point. From the water, you can appreciate the ship’s size and significance, making for an impressive photo op that captures Charleston’s naval history.

What to Expect on Board

The catamaran itself is described as spacious and comfortable, designed for relaxing. You’ll be on deck, feeling the ocean breeze, with plenty of room to sit back and enjoy the views. The crew is marked as friendly and knowledgeable, adding to the overall relaxed vibe.

Since this is a public tour, the group size can go up to 100 travelers, but in practice, it’s likely a more intimate experience. The inclusion of English-speaking guides helps ensure you won’t miss interesting tidbits about the sights you’re passing.

Drinks and Food: What’s Included?

One of the standout features of this tour is the complimentary drinks. Expect sodas, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages (for those 21+). The review mentioning a “great time” and “awesome staff” highlights the importance of friendly service and good drinks in making the experience memorable.

It’s worth noting that some specialty beverages like craft beers and CBD seltzers aren’t included, so if you’re particular about your drinks, you might want to purchase those separately. Still, the included selection is generally enough to keep your glass topped up while you enjoy the sunset.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This sail is best suited for travelers wanting a casual, scenic outing without the fuss of a full-day tour. It’s particularly appealing for those who enjoy relaxing with a drink in hand, soaking in views, and learning some local history. It’s also family-friendly for kids over 6, but keep in mind the potential difficulty for those with mobility issues due to the dock boarding process.

The tour’s moderate price point and free cancellation policy make it accessible and flexible, ideal for midweek plans or those looking to fit in a laid-back activity during a busy trip.

The Real Deal: What We Love and What to Consider

We loved the friendly, knowledgeable crew—reviews are glowing about their helpful attitudes and local insights. The views from the water, especially passing under the Ravenel Bridge and seeing Fort Sumter, are genuinely striking. The inclusion of drinks makes the experience feel indulgent yet relaxed, perfect for unwinding after sightseeing.

A possible consideration is the group size—up to 100 travelers—which could mean crowded moments, especially during peak times. Also, for travelers with limited mobility, boarding at the dock might be a challenge, so it’s worth considering if that applies to you.

In terms of value, paying $76 for a two-hour cruise with drinks included is quite reasonable, especially since it offers an effortless way to see some of Charleston’s best views.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic water experience that combines beautiful views, friendly service, and drinks, the Aloha Wednesday Sunset Sail offers a relaxed way to enjoy Charleston. It’s best suited for those who want an easygoing activity without needing to commit to a full-day tour or a strenuous outing. Families with children over 6 will find it enjoyable, though those with mobility issues should double-check accessibility.

For solo travelers or groups of friends, it’s a great way to toast the evening and soak in some local charm from the water. The combination of iconic sights, pleasant crew, and a warm sunset makes this a memorable midweek treat.

While it might not be a high-adventure or highly active experience, what it lacks in adrenaline, it more than makes up for in atmosphere and comfort—perfect for a relaxing break in Charleston.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 6 are welcome, but it’s not recommended for younger kids or those with mobility issues due to the dock boarding process.

What drinks are included?
Sodas, bottled water, and alcoholic beverages for travelers 21+ are included. Specialty drinks like craft beers and CBD seltzers are not included.

How long is the cruise?
The sail lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the views.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Shem Creek Park, Mt. Pleasant, with the meeting point at 1 Shrimp Boat Lane.

Is the tour canceled in bad weather?
Yes, if weather conditions are poor, the tour can be canceled with a full refund or rescheduling options.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and consider bringing a light jacket or layers, especially for sunset.

Are there any age restrictions?
Alcoholic drinks are served only to those 21 and over. Minors under 21 will receive non-alcoholic drinks.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the tour can host up to 100 travelers, with most experiences fitting comfortably within that range.

Do I need a mobile ticket?
Yes, this tour uses a mobile ticket for easy check-in.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic way to see Charleston from the water, the Aloha Wednesday Sunset Sail might just fit the bill. It combines comfort, great views, and a touch of island style—what’s not to love?