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Boat rentals in Charleston usually range from $100 to $300 per hour. Larger boats, luxury yachts, or private charters with a captain may cost $400 or more per hour depending on the experience.
Yes, many boat rentals in Charleston offer captained options. Whether you're booking a sunset cruise, a harbor tour, or a private event, hiring a captain is a popular and stress-free option.
If you’re renting a boat without a captain, South Carolina requires boaters born after July 1, 2007 to complete a state-approved boater education course. No license is required if your rental includes a captain.
Top spots include Charleston Harbor, Shem Creek, Fort Sumter, Morris Island Lighthouse, and the Intracoastal Waterway. Barrier islands like Kiawah and Capers are also favorites for beach stops and wildlife viewing.
Popular marinas include Charleston City Marina, Bristol Marina, Ripley Light Marina, and Isle of Palms Marina. Shem Creek is also a top departure point for boat tours and charters.
You'll find a wide variety including center consoles, pontoons, deck boats, yachts, catamarans, and sailboats. Many rentals are available with or without a captain depending on the type of experience you want.
Boating in Charleston is great for dolphin watching, sunset cruises, sandbar parties, island hopping, fishing trips, and sightseeing around historic waterfronts and landmarks.
Yes, Charleston is a well-known fishing destination. You can book inshore, nearshore, or deep sea charters targeting redfish, trout, flounder, snapper, and more.
Absolutely. Bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen in Charleston Harbor, Shem Creek, and around the barrier islands. Many boat tours include dolphin sightings as part of the experience.
Spring through early fall (April to October) is the best boating season in Charleston, with warm temperatures and calm waters. Summer is the busiest, so book in advance.