Charleston: Private Boat Rental; Captain and Mate; Up to 22

Introduction

Thinking about seeing Charleston from a fresh perspective? This private boat rental experience with Captain Cocktail Cruises offers a laid-back, customizable way to enjoy the city’s scenic harbor. Perfect for celebrations, family outings, or just a relaxing day on the water, this cruise promises a memorable blend of sightseeing, fun, and comfort.

Two things we particularly love about this experience are its flexibility—you can choose between 2 to 4 hours—and the authenticity of cruising with a USCG-certified captain and mate who make safety a priority without sacrificing the party vibe.

One consideration? The cost is around $1,100 for up to 14 guests, which might seem steep for some, but given the amenities and privacy, it’s generally a good value for groups seeking a personalized, all-in-one experience.

This tour suits couples, families, groups celebrating special occasions, or corporate teams wanting a private, relaxed cruise with plenty of space. If you’re after a fun, flexible way to explore Charleston’s waters with friends or loved ones, this is an option worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private and customizable: You control your schedule, drinks, and activities.
• Comfort and convenience: Spacious 35ft vessel with bathroom, partial shade, and top deck.
• Scenic route: Cruise past notable sights like USS Yorktown and under the Ravenel Bridge.
• Active fun: Anchor to swim, float on water mats, and play games with supplied props.
• All safety measures: USCG-certified crew and insured vessel ensure peace of mind.
• Flexible booking: Available 7 days a week, from 9am to 10pm, March through November.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Setting the Scene at Shem Creek

Your adventure begins at the lively Shem Creek, a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Parking is straightforward—just head to the lot and follow signs to the dock. Arriving about 15 minutes early helps you settle in, get your drinks in hand, and soak up the atmosphere before departure. As you walk along the boardwalk, the view of Charleston’s skyline with its historic buildings and the distant USS Yorktown is already impressive.

The Vessel and Crew

The boat itself is a 35ft Party Pontoon Catamaran, a sturdy and comfortable vessel designed for fun. It’s USCG-inspected, meaning safety is taken seriously, and it can hold up to 22 guests. However, the experience is private for your group, ensuring intimacy and control over your day.

The crew, including a USCG Certified Master Captain and Mate, are friendly and professional. They’re there to keep everyone safe and make sure you have a good time. As one reviewer noted, “The crew was friendly, attentive, and made us feel very safe, even while we were having a good time.”

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Amenities and Entertainment

This boat is well-equipped with lighted Bluetooth speakers for your playlist and plenty of party games and photo props to keep the atmosphere lively. The vessel has coolers stocked with ice and bottled water, and you’re welcome to BYOB—just avoid glass bottles unless it’s champagne, which is allowed.

A bathroom with running water adds convenience during your cruise, especially on longer trips. The top deck offers partial shade while cruising, but when stationary, it’s perfect for sunbathing, dancing, or gazing at the skyline. The open front allows for plenty of space to dance or simply enjoy the view. When anchored, floating water mats, foam noodles, and water saddles are ready for swimming and lounging, making for a fun and refreshing break.

The Route and Highlights

Cruising through Charleston Harbor is an experience in itself. You’ll glide past historic downtown, marvel at the impressive USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier, and cruise beneath the iconic Ravenel Bridge. The route offers plenty of photo ops with scenic backdrops and a chance to appreciate Charleston’s maritime scenery.

Once anchored, you can swim, float, or play games on the water. The floating water mat and foam noodles are particularly popular, and several reviews mention how “relaxing and fun” it was to take a dip and lounge on the water.

Customization and Flexibility

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just having a girls’ weekend, this cruise can be tailored to your needs. You could opt for a shorter 2-hour trip to get a quick taste or go for up to 4 hours for a more leisurely experience.

The crew is accommodating, and the experience is designed to be relaxed and informal—perfect for unwinding with friends or loved ones. You have the freedom to bring your own drinks (as long as they’re in containers that aren’t glass) and snacks, which makes this a good value for groups wanting a personalized celebration without the high costs of a restaurant or hotel.

The Experience in Practice

Based on reviews, “The boat was spacious and comfortable, and the crew made us feel like we were on a private yacht,” one guest remarked. Another noted that the entire cruise was moving the whole time, with plenty of opportunities to relax and take in the views.

Some reviews highlight how fun the music and games made the trip, noting that “the party games and photo props kept everyone entertained,” while others appreciated the privacy—something hard to find on public tours.

The Cost and Value

At $1,100 for up to 14 guests, the price breaks down to roughly $78 per person, which is quite reasonable considering the exclusivity, amenities, and personalized service. For larger groups up to 22, the value increases, especially when you consider the included water toys, safety, and flexibility.

Remember, this includes the USCG-certified crew, safety equipment, floating mats, coolers, and entertainment gear—all factors that contribute to a hassle-free day on the water. If you were to book similar private boat experiences elsewhere, costs could easily be higher, making this a sensible choice for quality and value.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point is at Shem Creek, with parking in the lot and clear directions to the dock.
• Arrive 15 minutes early to allow for parking and boarding.
• Duration is flexible—2 to 4 hours—so plan according to your group’s energy and interests.
• The cruise runs 7 days a week, from 9am to 10pm, from March through November.
• Be sure to bring your own drinks (no glass, except champagne) and towels or sunscreen.
• This tour is not suitable for children under 4, wheelchair users, or guests over 350 lbs.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat rental offers a relaxed, customizable experience suitable for groups wanting privacy and control over their day. It’s ideal for celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, or reunions, as well as family vacations and corporate events.

If you’re seeking a fun, flexible way to explore Charleston’s harbor with plenty of options for swimming, games, and taking photos, this trip hits the mark. However, if you prefer guided sightseeing with historical commentary, you might look at other tours.

This experience is perfect for travelers who value privacy, comfort, and a bit of party atmosphere—a good choice for those wanting a laid-back day on the water with friends or family.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but the minimum age is 4 years old.

Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, you can BYOB, but no glass bottles are allowed, except champagne.

Is there a bathroom on board?
Yes, the vessel has a bathroom with running water.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing, and don’t forget sunscreen and towels.

Is there shade on the boat?
Yes, the boat has partial shade, and the top deck can be used for sunbathing when stationary.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive about 15 minutes early for smooth boarding and parking.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there water toys included?
Yes, floating mats, foam noodles, and water saddles are provided for swimming and lounging when anchored.

Can I extend the cruise beyond 2 hours?
Yes, durations range from 2 to 4 hours, so you can choose what fits your group’s plans.

Is this experience available year-round?
It operates from March through November, 7 days a week, from 9am to 10pm.

This private boat experience at Shem Creek combines comfort, flexibility, and fun, making it a solid choice for groups looking to enjoy Charleston from the water in a relaxed, personalized setting. Whether celebrating or just escaping the crowds, you’ll find this trip offers both scenic views and plenty of opportunities for making memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby