Private Afternoon Harbor Cruise on Kismet for parties up to 15

If you’re dreaming of cruising around Charleston’s beautiful harbor in a private, well-appointed boat, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. The Private Afternoon Harbor Cruise on Kismet is designed for groups up to 15, offering a laid-back yet luxurious way to see the city’s waterfront, learn some local stories, and enjoy quality time on the water.

What we love about this experience is its versatility—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a relaxing day with friends, Kismet makes it easy. The boat’s comfort and the ability to BYOB really set the tone for a personalized outing. Plus, with included floats and the option to swim near beaches or in natural coves, it adds a fun, active element that makes it stand out.

One thing to consider is that this tour requires booking about 23 days in advance on average, so last-minute plans might be tricky. Also, the price per group (around $1,549) might seem high at first glance, but when you think about the private setting, the amenities, and the flexibility, it often feels like a good value for groups wanting a memorable, tailored experience.

This experience suits groups of friends, families, or even small corporate parties looking for a mix of sightseeing, relaxation, and fun. If you appreciate personalized service and a boat that caters to your vibe—whether lively or chill—this cruise can be a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: Every tour is exclusive to your group, with options to include history, swimming, or just relaxing.
• Comfortable and well-equipped: The boat features a bathroom, stereo system, and plenty of space for up to 15 adults.
• Designed for fun and safety: Includes inflatable floats, water hammocks, and a professional captain and first mate.
• Bring your own snacks and drinks: BYOB is encouraged, and coolers with ice, bottled water, and soda are provided.
• Ideal for summer: Water temperatures can reach up to 88 degrees, perfect for swimming and lounging.
• Highly rated: All reviews are perfect (5-star) based on 16 travelers, with glowing comments about guides and overall experience.

An Honest Look at the Experience

When considering a private harbor cruise like this, you want to know what makes it stand out—and what might not be perfect. Based on reviews and the tour details, it’s clear that Charleston Sailing Charters has crafted an experience that appeals to a range of groups, from bachelorette parties to families.

The boat itself, Kismet, is specifically built for comfort and socializing. It comfortably holds up to 15 adults, and is Coast Guard certified for up to 23 passengers, which gives some room to breathe if your group has a few extra guests. The boat features a clean, onboard bathroom—a surprisingly important detail for those long, sunny days—and a stereo system to keep the vibe lively.

What makes this cruise special is the flexibility. You can opt for a simple cruise to admire Charleston from the water or anchor in a quiet cove for swimming and lounging. The company includes inflatable floats and “water-hammocks” at no extra charge, which is a huge plus. The water in summer hitting up to 88 degrees makes for ideal swimming conditions, so if you’re into cooling off in the summer sun, this is a real win.

The guides and crew, like Quent, Monique, Sam, and Scott, are frequently praised for their knowledge and helpfulness. They’re not just there to pilot the boat but also to enhance the experience with stories and local insights. Several reviews mention how fun, helpful, and attentive they are—making the trip more than just a boat ride.

The tour’s price point, at $1,549 per group, might seem steep to some. But when you factor in a private experience, the amenities, and the ability to BYOB and tailor the trip, it often feels like a good value—especially for special occasions or groups that want a memorable day out.

The reviews highlight how well this cruise caters to different vibes. For instance, bachelorette parties love the lively atmosphere, letting everyone blast music and enjoy the company. Families praise the safety and comfort, noting how it’s suitable even for children. One review mentions it as a “great way to see the harbor at sunset,” showing it can also be a peaceful, scenic experience.

A standout feature is the professional crew and personalized service. Many reviews mention how guides like Quent and Hailey or Monique and Sam go above and beyond, providing historical insights, ensuring drinks are served, and adjusting the vibe to the group’s preferences. This kind of attentive service really elevates what could otherwise be a simple boat ride.

What to Expect During Your Cruise

The tour begins at 17 Lockwood Drive, right in Charleston’s harbor area. From there, your private boat, Kismet, sets out for a roughly two-hour journey. The experience is flexible—your guide can focus on a scenic cruise, history, or anchoring for swimming and relaxing.

The cruise can be tailored to your interests. Want to learn about Charleston’s historic sites while passing by the Battery? Done. Prefer to anchor in a cove and float around on rafts? Easy. The guides are happy to cater to your preferences, making sure everyone has a good time.

The boat’s features include a stereo system, a clean bathroom, and plenty of space to spread out. You’ll love the way the boat feels both cozy and spacious, with enough room for everyone to relax and enjoy the ride.

The water activities are a hit, especially in summer when temperatures hit the high 80s. The included inflatables and water hammocks turn the cruise into a floating lounge, perfect for soaking up the sun. Several reviews mention how much fun people had swimming and lounging on the water.

Food and drinks: While the boat does not supply snacks or alcohol, you are encouraged to bring your own. The tour offers coolers with ice, bottled water, and soft drinks, so you can keep everyone hydrated. Many groups take advantage of this to pack their favorite snacks or beverages for a personalized touch.

The guides stand out for their local knowledge and friendly attitude. They’re not just captains—they’re storytellers and hosts, making sure your trip feels special. Whether it’s sharing Charleston’s history or helping set up a fun playlist, they’re there to make your outing memorable.

Why This Tour Works Well for Different Groups

Bachelorette parties especially love the style and lively vibe of the Kismet. The ability to blast music, have a private space, and enjoy swimming makes it ideal for celebrations. Several reviews highlight how guides like Quent and Hailey cater to a party’s energy, creating a fun, carefree environment.

Family groups find this cruise appealing because it’s safe, comfortable, and suitable for kids. The boat’s amenities and safety features, combined with the relaxed pace, make it a great way for families to explore the harbor without feeling cramped or rushed.

Friends and groups of friends looking for a memorable day out will appreciate the flexibility and personalized service. The guides are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, making the experience educational as well as fun.

Special occasions like birthdays or pre-wedding celebrations are another perfect fit. The reviews mention how the crew goes out of their way to make these moments extra special, from helping set up music to offering insights on local sights.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a private, customizable boat experience in Charleston, the Kismet cruise offers a solid, well-rounded option. It balances comfort, fun, and the chance to see the harbor through a more personal lens. The inclusion of floats and water hammocks, along with the chance to bring your own snacks and drinks, makes it especially appealing for groups wanting a relaxed, festive outing.

While it’s priced at around $1,549 per group, that cost covers the exclusivity and amenities—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable day on the water, it’s likely worth the investment. The positive reviews about guides and the overall vibe suggest you’ll be in good hands.

This tour is best suited for groups of friends, families, or parties who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, swimming, and lively socializing. If you’re seeking a laid-back yet upscale way to enjoy Charleston’s harbor, this private cruise hits that sweet spot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, every charter is private, meaning only your group will participate, giving you full control over the vibe and itinerary.

How many people can fit on the boat?
The Kismet is designed for up to 15 adults comfortably, and it is Coast Guard certified for up to 23 passengers, providing some extra room if needed.

What is included in the price?
The tour comes with inflatable floats, water hammocks, bottled water, and soda. You are encouraged to bring your own snacks and drinks, as BYOB is allowed.

How long does the cruise last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable yet satisfying escape on the water.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Bad weather can lead to rescheduling or full refunds.

Is this suitable for children?
While families love the boat for its safety and comfort, the tour does not specifically cater to children; it’s more suited for adult groups, but older children should have no issues enjoying the trip.

In the end, this private harbor cruise on Kismet offers a blend of scenic views, water fun, and personalized service that can make your Charleston trip truly memorable. Whether celebrating, relaxing, or exploring history, it’s a boat experience worth considering.