— hours ashore on average
Ships typically dock in Charleston SC for around — hours. That's enough time for a full island tour, a beach day, or a combination of shorter experiences.
Tours & Experiences in Charleston SC
30 experiences available — book through our trusted partners
Semi-private SMALL group Historic Walking Tours w/certified guide
Talk a walking tour of the most Historic city, Charleston, Southern Carolina in America with a certified and licensed guide. Charleston is where one of the first decisive victories of the American Revolution was fought, as well as the first shots of the Civil War.
Take a two hour stroll down picturesque streets and hidden alleys, taking in the beauty of homes, some of which were constructed before the Revolutionary War.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Photo Session in Historic Charleston
CELEBRATE your milestone in a meaningful way. Plan a secret proposal, capture your engagement, honor your anniversary, honeymoon, babymoon, or simply document a special trip with the people you love.
CUSTOMIZE your experience to match your vision. Choose from: historic downtown Charleston, Boone Hall, Isle of Palms, Cypress Gardens, Shem Creek. Together, we’ll create the perfect setting for your story.
ENJOY a relaxed, private experience designed just for you. I’ll guide you through beautiful locations and help you with simple, natural posing so you always know where to stand and what to do, while I capture professional photographs along the way.
CHERISH the memories long after your trip is over. Leave Charleston with timeless photographs that will remind you of this special chapter for years to come.
At the moment, I don’t offer portrait sessions for a single person unless it’s for graduation or senior photos.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Vanishing Mile Isle Beachcomber Tour
Enjoy a two-and-a-half-hour adventure on your own private boat. Your Master Captain will guide you safely through the Calibogue on a falling tide to the isle. This mile long sandbar is exposed for only a couple of hours per day, allowing beachcombers the chance to collect sand dollars, seashells and the occasional shark's tooth.
We’ll stop along the way to look for wild dolphins playing in the sound. We’ll share information about the island, the salt marsh and the surrounding ecosystem. Your Captain is also a Lowcountry Master Naturalist, and will assist you in identifying the various shells, mollusks and other invertebrates to be found on this tour!
This is an ideal outing for families and small groups. With up to 6 passengers, there’s plenty of room onboard and a comfortable seat for everyone.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Sailing Charter with Captain, BYOB
Embark on an exclusive sailing adventure on board "Esprit de Joy," tailor-made for groups of up to 6 guests for a 2.5-hour charter embracing Charleston's scenic Harbor. The golden hour of sunset is our prime booking time, offering you the opportunity to witness one of the most awe-inspiring sunsets. Or join us for an afternoon sail with your friends and family.
Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of Charleston and discover firsthand why it is affectionately referred to as "The Holy City." Be sure to note the iconic landmarks such as Castle Pinckney, Ravenel Bridge, USS Yorktown, and the historically significant Fort Sumter.
You are welcome to bring your own selection of beverages and snacks. We provide chilled bottled water, and ice upon request. We also provide plastic champagne flutes and souvenir cups that you can take home as a cherished memento.
Our dedicated captain is here to ensure every moment on board is nothing short of extraordinary.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Morning Sail, Dolphin and History Tour on Mystique
Welcome to Mystique, the beautiful 43ft sailing yacht operated by the longest running private charter company in Charleston's history. For over 12 years, our sailing yachts are the highest quality and operated by two professional crew to give you the best experience possible.
Standard 2 hour charters are private, only you and the guests in your party will be on board.
We depart from the safe Harbor City Marina downtown Charleston and sail out towards fort Sumter or the Arthur Ravenel Jr bridge, past the battery and the historic forts on the Charleston Harbor. We always point out the bottlenose dolphins that we see and try to get as close as we can for your viewing pleasure.
Great for children and adults alike, we have plenty of shade, two bathrooms and soft drinks refreshments are included.
We strive to provide the best customer service giving our guests the finest sailing experience available in Charleston.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Storied Charleston Walking Tour by Author Liz Butler
Join Liz as she leads you on a small group tour of her favorite city. Wander down cobblestone streets admiring window boxes and ironwork. Travel down alleyways and visit the stunning views of the harbor and Fort Sumter all while hearing the history of the city throughout its triumphs and tragedies.
Liz Legare Butler is a tenth-generation Charlestonian, an award-winning author, a recipient of the 2020 Best of Charleston award, and has been a licensed tour guide since 2003. Her love of history, her family connection, and masterful storytelling make taking a tour with her especially interesting.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private customized walking tour of Charleston
Talk a walking tour of historic Charleston SC with a certified and licensed guide. See beautiful architecture in our homes, churches, and public buildings. Hear over 356 years of history from the founding of our colony through wars, natural disasters and more! Come learn about the ensalved and Gullah culture and places that make Charleston so unique! Tours can be customized based on the interests of your group!
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Surf Lesson in North Myrtle Beach
Learn to surf with Kokopelli Surf Camp in Myrtle Beach or North Myrtle Beach and have the most awesome experience of your life! The only surf camp where you can learn from professional surfers on boards designed for learning. Our professional surfers with years of experience ensure you learn not only the right way to surf but a passion for the sport as well. With each lesson, we guarantee to get you riding waves. Instructors, CPR and First Aid certified create a fun safe environment to learn surfing by assisting the students while entering the water, catching waves, and much more. Learn to surf like the local pros.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Folly Dolphin Adventure (Private or Public) to 12 guests
Enjoy a quintessential lowcountry cruise through the salt marshes of one of Charleston’s most scenic rivers where we see multiple dolphin sightings on 99% of our tours! The waters here are calm and less crowded with land always in sight making this private tour more relaxing, intimate, and enjoyable!
You will be onboard a 27’ Coast Guard Certified vessel. “Marsh Mama” is designed with an open concept. She has comfortable cushioned seats, and Bluetooth stereo for your enjoyment. Spacious coolers with ice and waters will be provided. You are welcome to bring whatever food and drink you’d like! (BYOB)
Your captain will be experienced, knowledgeable, and fun. He will keep you safe, teach you interesting facts, and take great care of you. Your captain has a Masters License.
The tour is great for guests of all ages! It is perfect for families, friends, and celebrations! You can even bring your pet!
Inquire for group rates for up to 20 guests.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
8pm Holy City Hauntings Tour
Join us as we walk you by Charleston's most haunted locations. All of the stops on our tour have been investigated by our paranormal research team, so you will be able to hear and see evidence of ghosts that our team has captured at each location. In addition, we have fully researched all of our stops at the South Carolina Historical Society, so all of our stories are one hundred percent true. We dispel many local myths told on other tours and rely only on fact from real obituaries, coroner inquests, death certificates, and other historical files. Dare to learn the true reason behind Charleston's haunted past!
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Folly Beach Eco Boat Excursion and Morris Island Drop Off
On this tour, the boat ride through Folly Beach's most pristine marshlands is a must do and an adventure in itself. Along the way, your captain will teach you about our local estuary and the wildlife that inhabit it. You will get to see many variety of birds and other sea creatures including our resident bottlenose dolphins! Once at Morris you will be able to enjoy the island, look for various sea shells that scatter the area, and take in the stunning views of the historic lighthouse! You will get to explore the barrier island for approximately 1 hour before getting back on the boat.
This tour can be enjoyed by the whole family and is the ultimate saltwater experience in Charleston!
(This is not a fossil hunting trip - if you are interested in shark teeth, contact us directly!)
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Charleston Walking Tours with Ann
"Private" Charleston Walking Tour with a certified/licensed guide who grew up in Charleston and will relate personal experiences as well as the city's history. This is your tour and I want our time together to be meaningful, memorable, and fun. Let me know if you have special needs.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Capture Unforgettable Moments: Private Holiday Photography
With this experience (unlike some other similar, lower priced options) you get an upscale, well known, and well reviewed Myrtle Beach family photographer. The other options listed are out of state or out of country.
This means the actual photography is sub contracted out to a photographer unknown to you, and then the company edits the photos. This creates a disconnect as the photographer is taking the photos, and someone else edits. Go with a trusted name!
At Myrtle Beach State Park, our family photography sessions aren't just about capturing images; they're about creating cherished moments. With a backdrop of pristine natural beauty, expertly captured by professional photographer Kristina Barron, we don't just take photos; we craft visual stories that immortalize the love, joy, and connection within your family. Free admission to State Park!
Many other scenic locations available on request. I will find an unforgettable beach or other spot close to where you are staying!
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Sunset Sail BYOB Dolphin/History Tours on 43ft Mystique
Welcome to Mystique, the beautiful 43ft sailing yacht operated by the longest running private charter company in Charleston's history. #1 activity on Tripadvisor for over 12 years, our sailing yachts are the highest quality and operated by two professional crew to give you the best experience possible.
Standard 2 hour charters are private, only you and the guests in your party will be on board. Additional hours can be added by request.
We depart from the safe Harbor City Marina downtown Charleston and sail out towards fort Sumter or the Arthur Ravenel Jr bridge, past the battery and the historic forts on the Charleston Harbor. We always point out the bottlenose dolphins that we see and try to get as close as we can for your viewing pleasure.
Great for children and adults alike, we have plenty of shade, two bathrooms and soft drinks refreshments are included.
We strive to provide the best customer service giving our guests the finest sailing experience available in Charleston.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private BYOB Afternoon Harbor Sail On 50ft Sailing Yacht Fate
Sail the Charleston Harbor, see dolphins, historic forts, or even participate in real sailing yacht regattas. Fate is not only the most demanded but also the largest and nicest sailing yacht available for Charter in Charleston, known for her beauty under sail, exquisite appointments below deck and the best customer service in the industry.
Charters depart from Downtown Charleston just minutes from most hotels. Standard sails are 2 hours, sailing to Ft Sumter or the Ravenel bridge depending on wind conditions.
We can narrate and give a full history tour or we can just put on some great music and let you enjoy yourselves and take in the beautiful sights of the Charleston Harbor. Its up to you
We provide complimentary bottled water and soft drinks but you're welcome to BYOB or make it easy and have it catered through Caviar Bananas and enjoy charcuterie, wine, champagne, beer or dinner on board during your trip, delivered directly to the boat.
#1 activity on TripAdvisor since 2010
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Sip History In a Secret Speakeasy Cocktail Class
2-hour, interactive cocktail class that combines history, jokes, techniques, recommendations, and drinking.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Morning Sail/ Dolphin Tour on 50ft Fate, BYOB or Catering
Sail the Charleston Harbor, see dolphins, amazing sunsets or even participate in real sailing yacht regattas. Fate is not only the most demanded but also the largest and nicest sailing yacht available for Charter in Charleston, known for her beauty under sail, exquisite appointments below deck and the best customer service in the industry.
Charters depart from Downtown Charleston just minutes from most hotels. Standard sails are 2 hours, sailing to Ft Sumter or the Ravenel bridge depending on wind conditions.
We can narrate and give a full history tour or we can just put on some great music and let you enjoy yourselves and take in the beautiful sights of the Charleston Harbor. Its up to you
We provide complimentary bottled water and soft drinks but you're welcome to BYOB or make it easy and have it catered through Caviar Bananas and enjoy charcuterie, wine, champagne, beer or brunch on board during your trip, delivered directly to the boat.
#1 activity on TripAdvisor since 2010
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Tour! Capture the best of Charleston with a multi-location photoshoot.
Guided walking tour through downtown Charleston with mini-photoshoots at the most photogenic spots. Utilizing iPhone camera technology, pictures are digitally delivered the next day (with quick edits). Instant Shoot is the fun and affordable way to capture your Charleston vacay.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Afternoon Sailing/Dolphin & History Tour on 43ft Mystique
Welcome to Mystique, the beautiful 43ft sailing yacht operated by the longest running private charter company in Charleston's history. #1 activity on Tripadvisor since 2012, our sailing yachts are the highest quality and operated by two professional crew to give you the best experience possible.
Standard 2 hour charters are private, only you and the guests in your party will be on board. Additional hours can be added by request.
We depart from the safe Harbor City Marina downtown Charleston and sail out towards fort Sumter or the Arthur Ravenel Jr bridge, past the battery and the historic forts on the Charleston Harbor. We always point out the bottlenose dolphins that we see and try to get as close as we can for your viewing pleasure.
Great for children and adults alike, we have plenty of shade, two bathrooms and soft drinks refreshments are included.
We strive to provide the best customer service giving our guests the finest sailing experience available in Charleston.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Backyard Shrimp Boil on Shem Creek
Learn the art of the classic Lowcountry boil with Captain Bryan right on the picturesque banks of Shem Creek. This private cooking class offers an authentic taste of Charleston culture as you dive into the shrimping industry’s history. Guests will meet at a specially designed food trailer with wrap around bar seating on the banks of the creek. Start by creating a fresh shrimp ceviche with local ingredients, then engage in a fun shrimp peeling competition. Under Captain Bryan’s guidance, you’ll learn how to prepare a mouthwatering Lowcountry Boil featuring local shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, seasoned to perfection. Enjoy your culinary creations in a relaxed setting, making this an unforgettable local experience.
Guests with shellfish allergies will not be able to join. Guests with dietary restrictions please note we cannot make substitutions. Solo travelers please kindly call to join the next available outing as we have capacity requirements.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Historic Golf Cart Tour in Beaufort, SC
Explore the rich history of Beaufort, South Carolina, on a captivating golf cart tour. This one-hour journey offers a unique blend of local lore and architectural beauty and many film spots that were filmed here, showcasing the stunning Antebellum homes and live oaks draped in Spanish moss. Knowledgeable guides share insights into the town's 300-year-old past, making history come alive. Perfect for families, history buffs, and travelers seeking an authentic Lowcountry experience.
- Enjoy a one-hour guided golf cart tour in Beaufort's historic district
- Learn about Beaufort's culture, architecture, and fascinating stories
- Tours available daily, departing from Emma's Earth Shop in downtown Beaufort
- Eco-friendly 8-man golf carts provide a comfortable, engaging ride
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Surf Lessons in Myrtle Beach
Learn to surf with Kokopelli Surf Camp in Myrtle Beach or North Myrtle Beach and have the most awesome experience of your life! The only surf camp where you can learn from professional surfers on boards designed for learning. Our professional surfers with years of experience to ensure you learn not only the right way to surf but a passion for the sport as well. With each lesson we guarantee to get you riding waves. Instructors, CPR and First Aid certified, create a fun safe environment to learn surfing by assisting the students while entering the water, catching waves, and much more. Learn to surf like the local pros.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
1 Hour Private Tubing Trip
Come experience tubing on the waters surrounding Hilton Head Island! This is fun for everyone. Our captain will be there to show your group a great time tubing behind our brand new custom boat. This boat holds up to 12 passenger and is private to your group. Book your tubing trip today!
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Afternoon Harbor Cruise on Kismet for parties up to 20
Looking for a private luxury yacht for your large group? Kismet can hold up to 15 passengers, cruise the harbor, BYOB, awesome stereo, bathroom, history tours, swim and float on rafts. Kismet does it all! Kismet is a custom-built picnic boat, specifically created for carrying private charter groups comfortably, up to 15 adult passengers. Charleston Harbor can see summer water temperatures as high as 88 degrees which means it's perfect for anchoring and swimming near one of our many beaches, or soaking in the views of the harbor from the safety of a natural cove. We include inflatable floats and patented "Water-hammocks" for everyone on board. Complimentary Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, and bottled water are provided. We encourage you to BYOB and snacks. Comfortable year round an all conditions, perfect for your entire extended family or special occasion. From history tours to wild parties for your bachelorette party we can do it all and in style. Every charter is private.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Charleston Harbor Catamaran Sail
Sit back and let us take the helm while you enjoy the harbor breeze aboard a Leopard 40 sailing catamaran. Our modern layout provides a panoramic view with large sliding glass doors between the saloon and the rear deck space, with an access door to the front of the boat. These features offer an open concept feel and easy navigation in and around the yacht. Better to see the dolphin and other happenings in the harbor! This innovative design also increases air flow and ventilation throughout the yacht, creating a more pleasant and breezy experience on the water. Catamarans provide a more stable ride on the water, giving ultimate comfort and relaxation while underway. Minimal leaning/heeling over. Owner/operators, captain Todd and wife Kathy, look forward to showing you the harbor and their beautiful boat.
Once you request a day, we will contact you to find a mutually agreeable time for our sail- or find us at Ezsailingcharters.com for up to date schedule.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Private Charleston Dolphin and Eco Boat Tour
Join us on this two hour private boat tour as we explore the calm waters behind Folly Beach in search of the local bottlenose dolphins. As we cruise through the creeks and inlets, you will have the opportunity to see these beautiful animals play, sleep and hunt. If the dolphins are feeding, you may be able to observe a hunting strategy called “strand feeding,” only seen in this part of the world. Along the way, you will also have the chance to see other local wildlife, such as wading birds, bald eagles, osprey, pelicans or maybe a sea turtle. This cruise includes up to 6 people for one price!
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Streets and Eats Charleston Walking and Tasting Tour
Experience Charleston’s charm through its flavors and history on this 2.5-hour small-group walking and tasting tour. Explore the city’s most iconic streets and neighborhoods—including the French Quarter, South of Broad, and the colorful Rainbow Row—areas often missed by traditional food tours.
Led by a City of Charleston-certified guide, this tour blends culinary delights with cultural insights. Enjoy three tastings from local favorites: two quick grab-and-go bites and one relaxed, sit-down experience where you can savor Lowcountry cuisine and learn about its rich heritage. Alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the sit-down stop.
Along the way, immerse yourself in Charleston’s architecture, stories, and vibrant street life. Your journey concludes near the Charleston City Market, leaving you perfectly positioned to continue exploring the Holy City at your own pace.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
2-Hour Charleston Stand-Up Paddleboard Rentals
We are the original stand up paddle boarding company and have a brick and mortar shop! Stop in and use our bathroom, pick up water, and get your route on our map. We specialize in large groups and extended rentals, as well as offer tours three times a day, seven days a week. If you've never been paddle boarding before, our lifeguard certified guides and naturalists are excited to get out on the water. Give us a call!
Free cancellation
VIATOR
Chattooga River Rafting Wild Section 4
During your Section 4 Chattooga Rafting trip, you'll raft the river that Southern Living named as The 1 Thing Every Southerner Ought to Do. You'll also raft the same river where the movie Deliverance was filmed in NOC's co-founder, Payson Kennedy was a stunt double.
As a Wild and Scenic River, protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1974, you'll experience the southeast's most wilderness rafting trip.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
The Greenville Ghost Hunt 2 Hour Walking Tour
To make it simple, we offer customizability and honesty, which is something that is in short supply in the area. Most of the other decent tours aren't customizable, we'll change things up for you.
We are the only ghost tour in the area that tells you the truth. All of the comments about hauntings are researched from books, news media, or first-hand experience. The "And More" means that you can also add other questions about Greenville, from shopping to history.
No one knows more about modern Greenville than we do, and the lead guide was previously the head guide and manager of Greenville Segway Tours.
We will customize the information we give you and even the walking path if you have something special that you want to see. It's all about you.
Keep in mind that this is a 2-hour walking tour. If you have any trouble walking for 6 miles, this tour is probably not for you. Most customers choose to travel the whole time, but we are happy to take a break if you need it.
Free cancellation
VIATOR
When to Visit Charleston SC
Cruise season patterns based on scheduled ship visits and passenger volumes
Winter Season
Dec – Feb
10,682 estimated passengers across 98 ship visits. Moderate activity — good availability.
Spring Season
Mar – May
12,041 estimated passengers across 104 ship visits. Peak cruise season — book early.
Summer Season
Jun – Aug
3,270 estimated passengers across 30 ship visits. Quieter period — fewer crowds.
Autumn Season
Sep – Nov
9,515 estimated passengers across 76 ship visits. Moderate activity — good availability.
Cruise Lines Visiting Charleston SC
5 cruise lines. View full breakdown →
American Cruise Lines Cruises (742)
American Queen Voyages Cruises (18)
Viking Cruises Cruises (4)
Scenic Cruises Cruises (2)
Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Cruises (1)
Why Book with Blue Seas Tours?
1% Commission
The lowest in the industry. Other platforms charge 20–30%. We charge 1%.
Money Stays Local
99% goes directly to the local operator. Plus 25% of our profits fund island farming through Ground Swell.
Book with Confidence
QR-verified bookings, instant email confirmation, real-time availability.
Enter Once, Book Everywhere
Search your cruise once and see tours at every port. No re-entering details.
Ready to explore Charleston SC?
Search your cruise and find tours at every port — booked directly with local operators.
Search Your Cruise → Port Statistics →