Private Afternoon Boat Ride and Beach Excursion

A Private Afternoon Boat Ride and Beach Excursion in Charleston: An In-Depth Look

If you’re looking to experience Charleston from a whole new perspective, this private boat tour offers the chance to cruise the harbor in style, with the flexibility to customize your adventure. For around three hours, you’ll be aboard the Southern Charm, a sleek, fast boat capable of hitting speeds up to 30 mph, making it perfect for covering a lot of ground—and seeing many of Charleston’s most iconic sights. From exploring historic harbor landmarks to relaxing on secluded beaches, this experience caters to those who want an engaging, personalized day on the water.

One of the standout features? The customizable itinerary. Whether you’re into shark tooth hunting, shelling, or simply lounging on a pristine beach, the captain will tailor your journey to match your wishes. Plus, the added amenities—like beach chairs, coolers, and Bluetooth speakers—allow you to turn your trip into a true party on the sand. Just a heads-up: the experience costs $499 for a group of up to six people, and booking at least 60 days in advance is recommended, especially if you’re aiming for weekends or summer dates. This tour is best suited for families, friends, or groups celebrating special occasions who want a combination of scenic cruising and beachside fun with total privacy.

The only caveat? The price reflects a semi-private experience, so if you’re on a tight budget or prefer larger, more social tours, this might not be the right fit. However, for those who value exclusivity, comfort, and control over their day, it’s a fantastic investment. Overall, it’s an experience that seamlessly blends sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation—ideal for anyone wanting to see Charleston from the water without the crowds.

Key Points

• Private & customizable: Full control over your itinerary and stops, ideal for personalized experiences.
• Speed & coverage: Reaching 30 mph, the boat covers extensive harbor areas in a short time.
• Beach inclusions: Secluded beaches for shark tooth hunting, shelling, or lounging, with optional upgrades for beach gear.
• All-inclusive essentials: Cooler with ice, bottled water, soft drinks, and a Bluetooth stereo are included; additional beach equipment is extra.
• Authentic local experience: Pass by historic sites and enjoy the chance to search for fossils like the Megalodon tooth.
• Ideal for special occasions: Perfect for groups celebrating birthdays, bachelorette parties, or just a fun day out with friends.

Exploring the Itinerary & What to Expect

This three-hour tour promises a well-rounded taste of Charleston—from its historic waterfront to its secret beaches. You’ll meet at 17 Lockwood Drive, a convenient starting point within Charleston’s vibrant downtown, with easy access by public transportation and ample parking options nearby. Once aboard the Southern Charm, the captain immediately sets the tone with a professional, friendly attitude, making sure everyone feels comfortable and ready for adventure.

The Harbor Tour

The cruise begins with a leisurely glide through Charleston’s famous harbor. You’ll pass by all the main historic areas, with the captain pointing out notable landmarks and sharing interesting tidbits about the city’s maritime past. The boat itself is designed for comfort, with cozy seating for six and a high-quality sound system, perfect for relaxing or jamming out to your favorite tunes via the Bluetooth JBL speaker (which you can take ashore for beach vibes).

Beach Stops & Secluded Islands

The highlight for many is the chance to hop off at quiet island beaches. These spots are often secluded, offering privacy for sunbathing, swimming, or fossil-hunting. Reviewers have raved about the opportunity to search for 50-million-year-old Megalodon teeth—a once-in-a-lifetime fossil find—on Morris Island, with the captain happy to take you there if you’re interested. The beaches are ideal for shelling, relaxing, or just laying out your towel and soaking up the sun.

Shark Tooth Hunting & Shelling

The thrill of hunting for shark teeth is a unique aspect. Nearly all reviewers mention this as a major draw, with the beaches providing an ideal setting for fossil scavenging. The captains are knowledgeable about the best spots and will help you search, making it accessible whether you’re a fossil enthusiast or just looking for a cool souvenir.

Optional Beach Gear & Extras

You can add beach chairs, cabanas, umbrellas, and coolers at extra cost, transforming your beach time into a full-blown party. The beach cooler with ice is included onboard, but if you want to bring your own snacks or beverages, you’re welcome to do so. The addition of a JBL Bluetooth speaker makes it easy to set your ideal playlist and amp up the fun.

Lunch & Dining Options

While the tour itself doesn’t include an onboard meal, there’s the option to stop at Shem Creek’s many restaurants for lunch. This is a great way to enjoy fresh seafood or local bites after some beach time, especially if you want to combine your day on the water with a leisurely meal.

Additional Fun & Family-Friendly Features

During summer months, optional water hammock floats can be added, offering extra swimming fun. The boat also comes equipped with essentials like rain ponchos and an emergency porta-potty, so you’re prepared for unexpected weather or needs. Reviewers highlight how friendly and attentive the guides are, often sharing insider tips and historical insights.

Pricing & Value

At $499 for a group of up to six, this tour offers a private and flexible experience that many larger, commercial harbor cruises can’t match. When you factor in the personalized itinerary, private guide, and exclusivity, the price actually offers strong value. It’s perfect for those who want a tailored day on the water, away from the crowds and with the ability to focus on what interests them most—be it fossil hunting, relaxing, or sightseeing.

Considering that the tour is often booked 60 days in advance, especially during peak summer weekends, planning ahead is wise. The experience includes essential amenities such as bottled water, soft drinks, ice, and a sound system, which cover most needs for a comfortable day. Extras like beach chairs or umbrellas are relatively affordable enhancements if you want to maximize comfort but aren’t necessary to enjoy the trip.

The Authentic Experience from Reviews

The glowing reviews paint a clear picture of what makes this tour stand out. Customers particularly praise the guides—like Scott, Hailey, and Quent—who are described as attentive, hilarious, and knowledgeable. One reviewer noted that “Captain Dustin was an incredible guide,” highlighting the importance of having a friendly, informed captain to enhance the experience.

The most common praise revolves around the secluded beaches and fossil-hunting opportunities. One guest said, “We were able to bring our own drinks and snacks and spent time on a secluded beach where we could swim and look for fossils,” emphasizing the freedom and flexibility the tour provides. Many testimonials mention how fun and memorable the day was, especially for special occasions like bachelorette parties or girls’ trips.

Further, the ability to bring your own food and drinks allows you to customize the experience, whether you want a picnic or just some chilled beverages. The sound system and optional beach gear turn a simple boat ride into a lively gathering—something that reviewers consistently appreciated.

Practical Tips for Potential Bookers

• To get the most out of your trip, consider booking well in advance, especially if you’re planning for weekends or summer months.
• Think about whether you want to add beach gear or extra amenities; these can elevate your experience but do come at additional costs.
• If fossil hunting is your main goal, ask your captain about the best beaches for shark teeth, and plan to spend ample time searching.
• Bring your own food and drinks if you want a picnic vibe—this tour is very flexible.
• For a larger group or special celebration, this private tour ensures you won’t be crowded or rushed.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private boat ride in Charleston offers a unique combination of scenic harbor views, secluded beaches, and fossil-hunting opportunities. It’s especially well-suited for small groups seeking exclusivity and customization, whether celebrating a special event or simply wanting a relaxing yet adventurous day on the water. The knowledgeable guides and flexible itinerary make it easy to tailor your experience, and the focus on comfort and amenities ensures everyone stays happy.

If you enjoy personalized experiences, stunning coastal scenery, and the chance to explore hidden beaches, this tour hits all those marks. It’s a fantastic way to escape the crowds and craft an unforgettable day with friends, family, or even a partner.

For those who value detailed, attentive guides, authentic local experiences, and the freedom to choose their activities—this private Charleston boat tour should be high on your list.

FAQ

Is this tour private for my group only?
Yes, the tour is a private experience, with only your group participating.

How many people can fit on the boat?
The boat comfortably seats up to six passengers, ensuring plenty of space for everyone.

What’s included in the price?
Bottled water, soft drinks, a cooler with ice, and a Bluetooth stereo are included.

Are beach gear and extras available?
Yes, you can add beach chairs ($5 each), umbrellas ($10 setup), towels ($5 each), and cabanas ($30 setup). A Yeti cooler and additional ice are available for $20.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Absolutely. Bringing your own snacks and beverages is encouraged and welcomed.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately three hours, offering a good balance of sightseeing and beach time.

What are the main highlights?
Cruising past historic harbor sites, hunting for shark teeth on secluded beaches, and enjoying the freedom to customize stops.

Is there a specific time to book?
Booking 60 days in advance is recommended, especially for summer weekends or holidays, as it’s a popular choice.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Comfortable clothing suitable for being on the water and some extra layers if weather changes.

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

This private Charleston boat tour promises a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and exclusive access—ideal for those wanting a memorable day tailored to their interests. Whether fossil hunting on hidden beaches, enjoying scenic harbor views, or simply soaking up the sun, it offers a personalized way to experience this charming city’s waterways.