Running for our 16th season!

Climb aboard the Carolina Belle to enjoy the beauty of the Charleston Harbor and learn the rich history of the Holy City. During the scenic and relaxing 90 minute tour, you will see over 75 landmarks and points of interest!

Your professional USCG licensed captain will narrate history, sights, and facts about the Charleston Harbor as you pass locations critical to United States history.

FAQ

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Advance purchase is highly recommended and tours often sell out in advance. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance. Tickets can be purchased with a Visa, Mastercard or American Express.

What type of ticket should I buy if I'm bringing a very young child?

We have reduced price tickets for children ages 4 to 11. Children ages 3 and younger are free with an accompanying Adult ticket.

What exactly do we see on the tour?

You will see the profile from the water of one of the oldest cities in the United States. Specific sites you'll see and hear about include: the stately homes along the Battery, Customs House, South Carolina State Ports Authority, churches including: the white steeple of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, the three forts – Moultrie, Sumter, and Johnson, Patriot’s Point, the home of the Yorktown, the famous “Fighting Lady” of World War II, Charleston’s landmark Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge.

Is the viewing equally good on both levels of the vessel?

Yes, you will have a panoramic view from either level.

What happens if it rains?

The cruises take place rain or shine, regardless of weather conditions. The Carolina Belle has a glassed-in, enclosed observatory and the upper deck is also partially covered, so you'll be able to get great views of the Harbor's famous sights in any weather!

Is the Carolina Belle covered?

Yes, the Carolina Belle has two decks - A glassed-in “Main Salon,” which is climate controlled and an “Observation Deck,” each providing spectacular views of Charleston Harbor. The Observation Deck is open, however, it does have some roof-covered space.

Can I buy food or drinks on board?

There is a snack bar aboard the Carolina Belle that has bottled water and soda ($2-3), wine ($6), beer ($4-$5.5), mixed cocktails ($6-7), chips, hot dogs, burgers, candy bars, cookies, etc. The snack bar accepts cash or charge on board.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

No, we ask you not to bring any food or drinks on board. You will be able to purchase food and drinks at our snack bar.

Does the tour run year-round?

No, the public Harbor Tour runs from mid-February through Thanksgiving, with weekend cruises in December. Please check the calendar for the most up-to-date schedule information!

What should I wear?

Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Keep in mind that the temperature on the water is significantly lower than on the land, so you may want to bring a sweater in the cooler months.

Are there any stops along the way?

No, there are no stops. We will be cruising for the entire tour.

Is the Harbor Boat Tour safe?

The Carolina Belle is a safe vessel with a normal operating crew of three or four depending on the number of passengers. She is certified for 300 hundred passengers to cruise the inland waterways, harbors and tributaries by the USCG and meets all the US Coast Guard safety requirements.

Will I get seasick?

The Carolina Belle is a steady 85-foot vessel with classic lines. The Charleston Harbor has a mild atmosphere and it is unlikely that you will feel much movement aboard the boat. If you often feel seasick, you may want to consider some light medication before beginning the trip. We cannot officially advise you to take any medication, however.

Is the trip handicapped and wheelchair accessible?

The Carolina Belle is Wheelchair friendly, we are able to accommodate guests with wheelchairs for the most part. Entrance to the boat is via a 30-foot ramp, which varies in steepness depending on the tide. If you're able to enter using the ramp, you'll be able to participate in the tour.

How do you normally board the vessel? Will we have to use the stairs?

Normally stairs are not required for boarding or disembarking from the Carolina Belle, we use a ramp to load passengers directly on to the upper deck, where the boat's restrooms are located. Stairs are required to get to the lower level which is enclosed and climate controlled. Please make sure you consult with our staff before boarding if having to use the staircase will pose problems for you.

Is there any narration on the tour?

Yes, the Harbor Tour is fully narrated.

Do we see dolphins and other sealife or birdlife?

We often catch a glimpse of dolphins skimming the surface as they feed or a pelican as he nose dives into the water in search of a tasty tidbit.

Is parking available near the departure point?

Yes, a limited amount of free parking is available at the Charleston Maritime Center for Harbor Tour guests. If the lot is full, you may also park at meters or in a City Parking lot nearby, however you must pay for those parking spaces.There is a smaller overflow lot across the street that is also free.

Is there a restroom on the boat?

Yes, the boat is equipped with clean restrooms.

Can I stow anything during the cruise?

We do have limited closet space for wheelchairs and strollers on board. If you have a backpack or other item, we ask that you keep it under your seat. We are not responsible for lost or missing items.

Where does the Harbor Tour finish?

The tour finishes in the same place that it departs from, the Charleston Maritime Center, near Calhoun and Concord Streets.

Is smoking allowed on board the Carolina Belle?

Smoking is not allowed on the Carolina Belle per the City of Charleston ordinance against smoking in restaurants, bars, and other public areas. This does include electronic cigarettes.

Are dogs allowed on board?

No, Department of Health regulations prohibit animals on board with the exception of service animals.

Are gift certificates available for the trip?

Yes, gift certificates are available and they make perfect gifts for holidays, birthdays or any other occasion!

Can I book a private trip?

Yes! We can accommodate a variety of special requests. Please click “Contact HarborTours” to inquire further.

About Charleston Harbor Tours

Great memories await!

Looking for a unique venue to host that special occasion or party? What better way to WOW your guests than a cruise on the beautiful Charleston Harbor.

The Carolina Belle is available for private charters every day of the week Mid February through New Year’s Eve. We boast magnificent city skyline and gorgeous sunset views from our open Observation Deck or the enclosed Main Salon. We can accommodate all types of groups and parties and would be happy to assist with catering and entertainment or you are more than welcome to provide your own. The Carolina Belle can accommodate up to 250 passengers in a charter configuration.

The Carolina Queen is our newest vessel and can accommodate larger groups up to 400 passengers. The Carolina Queen is available for private charters year round. She is a truly unique vessel to Charleston Harbor evocative of the old Mississippi River Boats with an actual working paddlewheel and smokestacks. She has 3 decks for entertaining with a main bar and satellite bar available.

Inclusions: Your charter rate includes captain, crew, cash bar with bartenders, additional staff as needed, cruise director, set up of tables and chairs with crisp, white linens (specialty linens available at an extra charge) and a 30 minute boarding time prior to your cruise time. Caterers, decorators and other vendors will be allowed on board at least 1.5 hours prior to boarding time.

Cancellation Policy

Refund/Rescheduling Policy
Non-refundable, cannot be rescheduled.
Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.

Weather Policy
Events occur rain or shine. We may cancel any event because of severe weather, mechanical breakdown or lack of participation. In the unlikely event that we should have to cancel, we will attempt to contact you via phone, email and/or text (where applicable) and your event will be rescheduled or ticket refunded.

Health and Safety Policy

Charleston Harbor Tours is excited to be cruising! The health and well-being of our guests and crew members is our number one priority. Our policies are designed to keep everyone safe, while also allowing for an enjoyable experience.

More Questions?
Text or Call 843-722-1112 or email sales@charlestonharbortours.com