The Best Boat Rentals in Charleston

Most private harbor cruises with a captain run about $150–$300 per hour for smaller groups, while larger party boats and yachts are usually $400–$800 per hour depending on size and amenities. Sailboat charters commonly range from about $450–$600 for a two- to three‑hour sail. Fishing charters are usually priced by the trip: inshore half‑days are often $550–$750, nearshore trips $900–$1,300, and full‑day offshore $1,400–$2,000+. Pricing generally includes the boat, a licensed captain for captained trips, required U.S. Coast Guard safety gear, and often a cooler with ice; fuel, taxes, and gratuity may be extra, and policies vary by listing.

You’ll find comfortable pontoons and deck boats for relaxed cruising and sandbar stops, center consoles for fishing and quick harbor hops, classic sailboats and catamarans for scenic sails, and mid‑size to luxury yachts for celebrations. There are also guided sightseeing and dolphin‑watching tour boats. Choose based on group size, how you want to spend your time, and whether you prefer speed, shade, or spacious lounging areas.

Both options exist. Many visitors choose a captained charter so navigation, docking, tides, and currents are handled by a pro. If you want to operate a boat yourself, be sure you meet South Carolina’s requirements and are comfortable with local conditions. Under current South Carolina law, anyone born after July 1, 2007 must have a state‑approved boating safety certificate (or a valid 30‑day rental safety certificate) to operate a motorized vessel of 10 hp or more. Booking a captained trip means you don’t need to worry about licensing.

Common pickup points include Safe Harbor Charleston City Marina along Lockwood Drive on the Ashley River, the Harborage at Ashley Marina nearby downtown, Seabreeze Marina just beneath the Ravenel Bridge, the marinas on Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant, Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina at Patriots Point, Ripley Light Marina on the Ashley, and Isle of Palms Marina for trips closer to the barrier islands. Your captain will confirm the exact dock address and parking details after you book.

Typical routes showcase The Battery’s waterfront mansions and Charleston’s skyline, the sweeping cables of the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, historic forts in the harbor including Fort Sumter, the USS Yorktown at Patriots Point, and Castle Pinckney. Many trips also pass by shrimp boats along Shem Creek and venture toward the Morris Island Lighthouse. Keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins and seasonal seabirds around protected islands.

If you’re booking a captained charter, you don’t need a boating license—your licensed captain operates the vessel. For self‑operated rentals, South Carolina requires boaters born after July 1, 2007 to complete an approved boater education course or obtain a valid boat rental safety certificate. Bring a government‑issued ID, and follow any listing‑specific rules regarding security deposits and experience.

Yes—family outings are very common. Every legal charter provides U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all ages, with child sizes available; let your captain know the ages and approximate weights of children so they can have the right fit on board. By federal rule, children under 13 must wear a life jacket while the boat is underway unless they are in an enclosed cabin. Strollers aren’t ideal on deck, so consider a baby carrier for little ones.

Most private charters are BYO for snacks and beverages, and many provide a cooler with ice. Glass is often discouraged for safety, especially on open decks, and red wine or staining mixers may be restricted on some boats. If you prefer, ask about catering options or quick dock‑and‑dine stops near the harbor; your captain can suggest easy pickup spots around Shem Creek or Patriots Point.

Many private boats welcome well‑behaved dogs with advance approval, and a pet cleaning fee may apply. Bring a pet life jacket and water bowl, and keep dogs off protected shorelines. Note that certain bird‑nesting islands in the harbor are closed to landing in season and do not allow dogs at any time; your captain will steer you to pet‑friendly sandbars and beaches that are appropriate for landings.

Summer brings heat and occasional afternoon thunderstorms, while the official Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30. Captains watch the forecast closely and won’t depart in unsafe conditions. Weather and cancellation terms are set by each listing; in most cases, if your captain deems conditions unsafe, you’ll be offered a reschedule or refund per the policy. If skies are safe but not perfect, standard cancellation rules still apply, so review the listing’s terms before you book.

Absolutely. Charleston is a top spot for celebrations on the water. Many boats include easy party‑friendly amenities like Bluetooth speakers, float mats, coolers with ice, and shaded seating. Most standard vessels carry up to six guests, while larger, inspected vessels can host groups of 12–40+ depending on the boat. Share your occasion, headcount, and any special requests when you inquire so your captain can tailor the route and setup.

The sweetest weather is typically spring and fall—March through May and September through November—when temperatures are mild. Summer is peak season and great for swimming and sandbars, but mornings are calmer and cooler than afternoons. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, especially around popular spots like Shem Creek. For highlights, consider booking around major boating weekends (Memorial Day, July 4th fireworks in the harbor, Labor Day), the April Charleston Race Week regatta, or December’s Holiday Parade of Boats; these dates book early, so plan ahead.

Yes—ask about a run to the Morris Island Lighthouse and nearby sandbars for shelling and photos, dolphin‑watching through the harbor and tidal creeks, or a sunset circuit under the Ravenel Bridge with views of Fort Sumter and The Battery. Wildlife is a highlight here, so expect dolphin sightings and seasonal seabirds; your captain will follow responsible viewing guidelines and point out protected areas you’ll pass along the way.