The Best Boat Rentals in Mount Pleasant

Expect most small powerboats and deck boats with a captain to start around $125–$200 per hour, while mid‑size center consoles, pontoons, and sailboats commonly run $250–$400 per hour. Larger party boats, luxury yachts, and catamarans can range from about $400–$600+ per hour. Half‑day outings typically fall between $500–$1,200 depending on boat size, season, and day of the week, and 2‑hour sunset cruises often price around $300–$600. Most charters include a licensed captain, required safety gear, and basic amenities like a Bluetooth sound system and coolers; fuel, ice, or cleaning fees may be included or billed separately, so check the listing details. Gratuity for the captain is at your discretion, with 10–20% customary for great service.

You’ll find an easy mix tailored to different group sizes and vibes: center consoles for harbor cruising and sightseeing, comfortable deck and pontoon boats for relaxed sandbar time, sailboats for breezy afternoon or sunset sails, and larger party boats or small yachts for celebrations. Many options are family‑friendly and can be set up for dolphin‑watching, sandbar stops, or a calm Charleston Harbor tour.

Most planners opt for a captained trip because Charleston Harbor and the surrounding tidal creeks have strong currents, busy traffic, and shifting sandbars. A captain handles navigation, docking, and timing with the tides so you can focus on your group. Experienced boaters can find self‑operated options, but you’ll need to meet South Carolina’s boater‑education rules and the owner’s experience requirements. If you’re unsure, book captained for a smoother, more relaxing day.

Common pickup points include Shem Creek in Mount Pleasant (public landing near 515 Mill Street and the day dock by the boardwalk on Shrimp Boat Lane), Charleston Harbor Marina at Patriots Point (20 Patriots Point Road), and Remley’s Point Public Boat Landing on the Wando River (80 5th Avenue). Your captain will confirm the exact meeting spot, parking, and timing based on tides and your route.

You can cruise past the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, the USS Yorktown at Patriots Point, and historic Fort Sumter out in the harbor, with skyline views of Charleston’s peninsula and the Battery. Closer to Mount Pleasant, Shem Creek offers shrimp boats, marsh views, and frequent bottlenose dolphin sightings. Depending on your route, you may also spot the modern Sullivan’s Island Lighthouse and seabirds around Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary (viewing from the water only during nesting season).

South Carolina does not issue a “boating license,” but boater education is required for certain operators. If you were born after July 1, 2007, you must complete an approved boater‑education course to operate a boat with a 10 hp or greater motor. If you’re renting, an SCDNR‑approved 30‑day rental safety certificate is another option. Many owners still require a minimum age and experience, and most visitors choose a captained charter to keep things simple.

Yes—families are welcome on most boats. Every vessel carries U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets for all guests. South Carolina requires children under 12 to wear a life jacket while on a boat under 16 feet when it’s underway; on larger boats, wearing is recommended but not always required. For infants and toddlers, ask the owner about sizes or bring a properly fitting personal life jacket for best comfort. Captains often suggest earlier departures for calmer conditions with young kids.

Most charters are BYO for snacks and beverages and will have a cooler; some provide ice and bottled water. Glass is often discouraged for safety, and hard liquor may be limited at the captain’s discretion. If you’d like to dock‑and‑dine, many itineraries can include a quick stop at Shem Creek (subject to restaurant docks and tides). Confirm your plans with the captain in advance so they can time things with current and parking conditions.

Policies vary by boat. Many captains allow well‑behaved dogs with advance notice, while others restrict pets on shared tours or certain vessels. If pups are welcome, bring a towel, water bowl, and a dog life jacket. Note that places like Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary prohibit dogs year‑round to protect nesting birds, so your captain will keep a respectful distance when viewing wildlife.

Summer brings heat and pop‑up afternoon thunderstorms, while the Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Captains watch marine forecasts and will reschedule or cancel if conditions aren’t safe. On Getmyboat, each listing has its own cancellation policy (commonly Flexible, Moderate, or Strict); most owners will work with you to reschedule for unsafe weather, and refunds follow the policy you accepted at booking.

Absolutely. Many boats are set up for celebrations with Bluetooth speakers, coolers, and easy routes for photos under the Ravenel Bridge or near the USS Yorktown. For groups over six people, you’ll either book a larger inspected vessel or split the party across multiple boats—your captain will advise what fits your headcount and budget. For spring and summer weekends, Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day, reserve early to secure your preferred time.

Peak boating season runs April through October, with the most pleasant temperatures in spring and fall. Morning departures are typically calmer and cooler, while late‑day trips deliver great light and sunset views. Big local dates that impact availability include Charleston Race Week in April at Patriots Point, the Blessing of the Fleet & Seafood Festival in late April at Memorial Waterfront Park, the July 4th fireworks from the USS Yorktown at Patriots Point, and the Holiday Parade of Boats in December. Weekdays are less busy than weekends, and booking sunrise, morning, or sunset often avoids the day’s heat and pop‑up showers.