Semi-Private Charleston: Party Boat Charter – 2 Hours

Imagine leaving behind the busy streets of Charleston for a couple of hours and floating along its scenic waterways with friends, music, and the ocean breeze. That’s exactly what the Semi-Private Charleston: Party Boat Charter offers — a lively yet relaxed way to celebrate special occasions or simply enjoy the views.

While we haven’t taken this cruise ourselves, the details paint a picture of a fun, flexible outing that balances socializing with the natural beauty of Charleston’s harbor. What we love about this experience is its value for money and the opportunity for each group to customize their celebration. A possible drawback? It’s a semi-private experience, meaning another small group will share the boat, which might not be ideal for very private parties.

This cruise suits groups looking to celebrate milestones like birthdays or bachelorette parties, those who want to blend sightseeing with a bit of partying, or anyone eager to experience Charleston from a different perspective — on the water, with music and drinks in hand.

Key Points

• Flexible Celebration: Perfect for birthdays, bachelorette parties, or beach vacations.
• Scenic Views: Offers superb backdrops like Downtown Charleston, the Ravenel Bridge, and the Yorktown Aircraft Carrier.
• Customizable Experience: Bring your own drinks and snacks, and enjoy a Bluetooth sound system.
• Group Size: Accommodates up to 20 guests, balancing intimacy and lively energy.
• Inclusive Amenities: Cushioned seats, side tables, bathroom, water, and ice provided.
• Cost-Effective: At $65 per person, it’s a good value for a memorable 2-hour outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at What You Can Expect

Our review approach considers what makes this cruise appealing, what the experience entails, and how well it fits into your Charleston itinerary.

The Departure and Meeting Point

The cruise begins at Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant, a popular hub for local boating and dining. You’ll find Captain Cocktail waiting near Water’s Edge restaurant, at the dock between Mount Pleasant Seafood and Water’s Edge. Arriving 20 minutes early allows time for parking and check-in, especially during busy weekends.

Accessibility is somewhat limited due to the dock and pontoon design — unfortunately, wheelchairs or guests with significant mobility challenges might find it difficult to board comfortably. Still, for most able-bodied visitors, the process is straightforward.

The Boat and Comfort

The boat itself is described as spacious, capable of comfortably holding up to 20 guests. Cushioned seating and side tables mean everyone can relax and chat, while the bathroom onboard adds a necessary touch of convenience. The crew is noted as professional and friendly, aiming to create a seamless experience from start to finish.

The 2-Hour Itinerary

What makes this cruise special is its combination of scenic beauty and social fun. You’ll cruise along Charleston’s coastlines, taking in views of Downtown Charleston, the Ravenel Bridge, and the Yorktown Aircraft Carrier. Expect plenty of opportunities for photos — many reviews mention how perfect the backdrop is for Instagram shots with friends.

You’re encouraged to bring your own drinks and snacks, turning the cruise into a personalized celebration. The Bluetooth sound system allows you to play your favorite tunes, whether that’s a playlist of party hits or mellow tunes for relaxing. Complimentary water and ice in coolers keep everyone hydrated.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Experience of Sharing the Boat

A key feature is that this cruise is semi-private, sharing the vessel with another small group. While this keeps the vibe lively and social, it might not be suitable if you’re after complete privacy. Still, most reviews suggest the atmosphere is fun and intimate enough to feel exclusive.

What the Experience Feels Like

Imagine dancing with your friends against the backdrop of the Charleston skyline, with the sun shining and the breeze blowing through your hair. The views of the city’s iconic bridges and vessels create a stunning setting for photos and memories. Reviewers mention that the cruise offers “breathtaking views” and a relaxed vibe, making it ideal for celebrating special days or just enjoying the landscape.

Cost and Value

At $65 per person, this cruise offers good value given its inclusive amenities and scenic stops. It’s a focused, two-hour experience, making it a manageable addition to your Charleston plans without feeling rushed. When considering what’s included — a boat, crew, water, ice, and the sound system — most travelers find this a fair price for the memorable experience delivered.

Additional Considerations

One aspect to keep in mind is that food and drinks (beyond what you bring) are not included, so planning your snacks and beverages is essential. Also, gratuities aren’t included in the price, so tipping the crew for good service is customary. Parking is at your own expense and can be limited during peak times, so arriving early ensures a smooth start.

Who Should Book This Cruise?

This experience is best suited for small groups looking to celebrate in a relaxed, fun environment. It’s particularly appealing for bachelorette parties, birthdays, or beach vacations where a lively, social atmosphere is desired. It’s also a fantastic way for visitors to get a unique perspective of Charleston’s waterfront, combining sightseeing with a party vibe.

On the downside, families with young children or guests with mobility challenges might find this experience less accessible. Plus, if complete privacy is your goal, this shared cruise might not fully meet your expectations.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after good value for a scenic, lively, and customizable experience, this cruise hits the mark. It offers a compact but comprehensive way to enjoy Charleston’s waters, with plenty of photo opportunities along famous landmarks. The friendly crew, comfortable setup, and the option to BYOB make it a flexible choice.

For those who love a fun party atmosphere combined with stunning views, this 2-hour cruise makes a memorable addition to your Charleston adventure. Just remember, it’s a shared experience — perfect for making new friends or celebrating with close friends, but not necessarily private.

To sum it up, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a fun, stylish way to see Charleston from the water, this cruise offers a balance of relaxed fun and scenic beauty that’s hard to beat at this price.

FAQ

What is the duration of the cruise?
It lasts 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, music, and drinks without feeling rushed.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The meeting spot is Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant, at the Water’s Edge dock between Mount Pleasant Seafood and Water’s Edge Restaurant.

Can I bring my own drinks and snacks?
Yes, you are encouraged to bring your own drinks and snacks to customize your celebration.

Is the cruise private?
It’s a semi-private experience, meaning another small group will share the boat with you, maintaining an intimate yet lively atmosphere.

What amenities are included?
The cruise includes water and ice in coolers, a Bluetooth sound system, cushioned seating, side tables, and a bathroom onboard.

Are there any accessibility issues?
Yes, due to the dock and boat design, wheelchairs or guests with significant mobility challenges may have difficulty boarding comfortably.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses and sunscreen for sun protection, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors.

Is there a dress code?
Casual beachwear or comfortable clothing is fine; just dress for the weather and bring sun protection.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the cruise, allowing flexibility for your plans.

This 2-hour Charleston party cruise offers a fun, scenic, and customizable way to celebrate and see the city from a different angle. Perfect for small groups seeking a relaxed yet lively experience, all at a reasonable price. If you’re looking for a memorable waterside party or a unique sightseeing opportunity, this cruise is well worth considering.

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