Enjoy Amazing sunsets for up to 23 passengers!
Introducing Charleston’s finest private motor yacht availble for medium sized groups, Kismet. Brought to you by the founders of the most successful private yacht operation in Charleston's history, Charleston Sailing Charters. Successfully running over 360 private charters per year since 2009 on the luxury sailing yacht Fate.
Kismet is Perfect for:
Bachelorette / Bachelor Parties
Birthdays
Large Families
Corporate Events
Photo Boat for yacht racing/wildlife
Commercial Shoots
ECO Excursions
Kismet, pronounced Kizmit,-met, is a custom made Williams 36 Deadrise motor yacht specifically created for private charter groups comfortably up to 18 passengers. Over the years we have found many groups have 7 to 18 guests and there was no real place for them to affordably go on a private yacht in Charleston. We thought about it for years and came up with Kismet. The name Kismet means Fate or Destiny and fits nicely with our sailing yacht Fate.
All of our luxury tours are private. We can accommodate up to 24 passengers in your private group but we like to keep the group size to under 18 if possible. We do not mix groups together to fill the boat, if you have just 7 passengers you will have the entire boat to yourself.
Call today for Spring and Summer Booking Details 843-557-7403
For parties 6 or less, we can also accommodate you on the luxury yacht Fate, Charleston's most popular charter yacht.
Private Charter - $0.00 + tax
duration: 2 Hours (Call for 3 or 4 hour Charters, 4 hour trips receive 15% off)
cancellation_summary: All charters are fully refundable up to 7 days from departure. If you need to cancel please call us and we can issue a full refund. Within 7 days, a 50% refund will be issued. There is no refund within 24 hours of departure.
meeting_point: 7 Lockwood Drive Charleston SC
group_size: Maximum 23 people
accessibility: Stroller Accessible
pricing: * 0-9 Passengers $400 per hour
* 10-15 passengers $600 per hour
* 16-23 passengers Monday-Thursday $600 per hour
* 16-23 passengers Friday, Sat, Sunday $700 per hour
Although customary gratuities for yachting is 18-20%, we ad d a base gratuity of 16% to the total, any additional gratuities can be paid directly to the crew via Venmo or Cash.
Wedding Pickup or Drop Off start at $600 per hour with a two hour minimum. We add a 20% base gratuity and 9% tax.
All charters bookable with a fully refundable 50% deposit. Please call 843-557-7403 to discuss longer charter options, pick up and drop offs or any other ideas you have.
description: History and Nature
A typical 2 hour harbor cruise will pass by Charleston landmarks such as The Battery, Waterfront Park, Historic Castle Pinckney, under the Arthur Ravanel JR Bridge, and out to Fort Sumter where the Civil War Began. You will usually see dolphins playing in the bow wake or feeding in the shallows. If you are an avid bird watcher there are many species to be seen.
Swimming and Floats
During the spring, summer and fall where the water can reach temperatures of 86 degrees, the mornings are calm and less chance of foul weather, this is the best time for swimming! We provide the amazing Sun Chill water hammocks that can hold your entire group safely, you can just lounge in the water with no exertion and without swimming.
Pick Ups and Drop Offs
We can pick up and drop off as far North as Isle of Palms and as far South as Rhetts Bluff on Kiawah Island. Ask us about what we can do for you!
what_is_included: * Coolers with ice, bottled water and soft drinks
* Bluetooth Stereo, (very loud)
* Nice Bathroom
* Water hammocks and Floats
what_is_not_included: * Alcohol
* Food
* Sunscreen (please no spray sunscreen)
* Towels
itinerary: Two Hour Charter
Two hours is great for a sightseeing tour, we can circle the entire harbor and see all the historic forts, Yorktown aircraft carrier, Ravanel Bridge and downtown Charleston. If you wished to swim, we could bypass the history tour and cruise over to Drum Island where we anchor and swim/lounge for 45 minutes.
Three Hour Charter
Three hours is perfect for those wanting to relax, see some history and also anchor and swim, hang out in the water hammocks and have a good time. You wont feel as rushed with three hours onboard.
Four Hour Charter (Receive a 15% discount)
Four hours is what most summer time parties ask for, you wont be wanting for more time and you'll have plenty of time to swim, relax, and enjoy all of the Charleston Harbor. With a 15% discount on 4 hour harbor tours the 4th hour is just a few hundred more than three hours yet you get 25% more time! If you are having a bachelorette party we highly recommend booking the 4 hours as you will begging for more time if you dont.
Drop Off at Shem Creek (or pick up)
We do offer drop offs and pick up from Shem Creek in Mt Pleasant. There is an additional fee of $275 for a drop off or pickup. Bachelor parties love the drop off feature as they can keep the party going after arriving on Shem Creek in a beautiful classic yacht!
highlights: Kismet is Charleston's premier private yacht charter, a classic styled picnic boat, with plenty of room for the entire family. She is fully crewed with Master Captain and First mate to handle all your needs while onboard.
Swimming Party
We offer amazing swim and raft party options. With the included water hammocks our guests can relax and dont have to actually swim while enjoying our summer water temps that average in the mid 80s.
History
If history is what you like, we can give fully guided tours of the harbor, passing by Ft Sumter, Ft Moultrie, Ft Johnson, Castle Pinkney and the Mighty Yorktown. Of course we also cruise by the beautiful Charleston Battery and Downtown. Also ask us about filming locations of the Outer Banks TV series.
CATERING:
Have your trip catered, beer, wine, champagne, and a delicious gourmet menu are available from Caviar and Bananas. heir beer and wine selections are grocery store priced and the food is the best in town. They can deliver the order to the boat before you arrive, please advise them to bring the food to Kismet on W Dock at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.
(843) 577-7757 and ask for Ryan or visit them online at http://www.caviarandbananas.com and view their online menu.
check_in_details: If you are having difficulty with the directions please call 843-557-7403 and they will be happy to walk you through it or come find you.
We are located on W dock at the Safe Harbor City Marina at 7 Lockwood Dr. in downtown Charleston.
Starting April 2025 we have a new slip location.
Park in the pay parking lot and walk to the main dock entrance labeled Safe Harbor with a big sign. Proceed down the dock until you reach the bathroom facilities, take a right at the bathroom facilities and continue two docks down to I dock. Take a left on I dock and walk down to meet Kismet on the right. You should see our signs guiding you along the way.
Please call 843-557-7403 if you have trouble finding us and we will come find you. Please be on board 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure in order to receive a mandatory orientation and safety briefing.
what_to_bring: Summer
* Sunscreen
* cool clothing
* towels
* Alcoholic beverages
* Food or have it catered
Winter
* Warm Clothing
* Alcoholic beverages
* Food or have it catered
special_requirements: Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
All swimming guests must sign a wavier/disclaimer.
There are several steps to get onboard
Please wear non scuffing soles during cooler months, during the summer we ask that all guests remove their shoes.
disclaimers: Cancellation
In the event of request for cancellation by the charter guest once paid in full, a full refund will be giving outside of 7 days from the scheduled time. Within 7 days there will be a 50% refund. There is no refund for cancellations within 24 hours of the scheduled charter. We are charged for each credit charge and refund, cancellations mean we lose out on other charter guests that we turned down because of your booking. However, you may reschedule your charter if you wish with applicable fees.
Rescheduling Fees
Charter fees are deemed earned upon placing a hold for desired date and time. Charterer's requests for rescheduling will be considered on a case by case basis and are subject to a rescheduling fee. The rescheduling fee is determined by the amount of notice given prior to the charter date and time and are as follows:
Outside 7 days no fee
Within 7 days of sailing: $200
Within 24 hours prior to sail: No Refund without Trip Protection
Trip Protection (Optional but highly recommended during the summer)
Purchasing trip protection allows you to cancel or reschedule your cruise at any time for any reason up to 1 hour prior to trip departure. You will be reimbursed for the full amount of charter fee less the cost of trip protection, booking and processing fees.
Weather
Weather cancelations are at the discretion of the Captain only and at the time of the charter. The weather forecasts are never correct, we always show up to the boat and see what the weather is at the time of the charter. First we will postpone if time is available and if the weather is moving off. If conditions do not improve and the captain cancels the charter, you will have the option to a full refund or reschedule if available. We do not cancel charters for light rain or windy conditions.
See the entire company policy here.
faqs: Will I get Seasick?
No, the harbor is very calm and the boat handles any small waves with ease. It is extremely rare for someone to get seasick in the harbor.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you can bring any food or beverage you wish to partake during your trip.
Can I bring a cooler
Yes
It says its going to rain 10 days from now, do we need to cancel?
No, we cancel less than 1% of our charter due to foul weather, no matter what the forecast says we always show up and the weather is typically perfectly fine. On that rare occasion when we show up and its not that great, we can decide then and there what course of action to take with your captain.
Can I bring out kids
Yes, Kismet is a Coast Guard Certified Commercial Vessel and very safe for all ages.
Booking Notes
Welcome Aboard!
Thank you for booking with Charleston Sailing Charters LLC. Your Captain and first mate will welcome you aboard. They are not only the yacht crew who are responsible for your safety but also your server and tour guides. They work extremely hard to make your time on the water exceptional! We look forward to our time with you aboard Kismet!
Catering
If you still wish to have catering delivered it may be too late, but you can still try by contacting Caviar and Bananas. 843-577-9997 or visit them online at Caviar and Bananas and view their online menu. They can deliver the food to the boat before you arrive, please advise them to bring the food to Kismet on W Dock at least 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure. We do provide bottled water and sodas at no extra charge. Our exclusive Medaloni Cellars Wine selections are available in advance for $30 per bottle. We have 2 coolers on the boat with ice for your things.
A Few Reminders for you:
Please be on board 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure in order to receive a mandatory orientation and safety briefing.
You will be asked to remove your shoes. If the weather is colder please wear boat shoes, non-scuffing white-soled sneakers. High heels, boots and marking soles will not be allowed on board.
Spray Sunscreens are not allowed on board any of our boats.
Illegal drugs of any kind are not permitted including you folks from Colorado, Oregon etc.. Sorry, its federal law. Guests who are intoxicated prior to boarding will not be allowed to board and will be escorted back to the marina parking lot, no exceptions.
Smoking is not permitted on board.
WHAT TO BRING:
Please bring towels if you wish to swim. Bring more alcoholic beverages than you think you need. Most parties run out within the first hour. We do provide solo cups but you can bring your own if you wish. Water temperature mid summer can reach 87 degrees.
In the winter months please dress in layers. We do provide blankets.
WHAT WE PROVIDE:
We provide two large coolers full of ice, bottled water and soft drinks (Coke, Diet Coke & Sprite). One of the coolers is there for you to put all of your beverages.
Solo cups and wine bottle openers.
Bluetooth Sound System, you can connect and be the DJ
There are an assortment of inflatable float toys for your enjoyment, the crew will inflate them and deflate them for you. You are also welcome to bring your own if you desire.
We provide blankets in the winter.
DIRECTIONS:
Please read these as you will not find us without directions.
Your captain or mate will contact you 20 minutes prior to departure to meet you at the Main Dock Entrance.
If you feel lost or need help with directions please call the captain Dustin at 843-557-7403
We are located at the City Marina at 7 Lockwood Dr. in downtown Charleston, Dock i.
Park in the pay parking lot past the large brick building on your left and walk to the main dock entrance labeled Safe Harbor Marina with a big sign over the dock. Your first mate or captain will meet you there 15 minutes prior to departure and escort you to the boat. If you do not see them please call 843-557-7403 or the number they called you from.
Please call 843-557-7403 if you have trouble finding us and we will come find you. Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to scheduled departure in order to receive a mandatory orientation and safety briefing. Please do not show up super early expecting to leave earlier, the crew run multiple trips per day and have quick turn arounds and need time to clean the boat and take a break. Your charter will always depart at the scheduled departure time.
Please call with any questions or concerns before your departure.
Sincerely,
Captain Dustin Ryan
Owner/Manager Charleston Sailing Charters LLC
www.charlestonsailingcharters.com
M/Y Kismet
www.charlestonyachtcharter.com
843-557-7403
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Number 1 Rated Business on TripAdvisor in Charleston SC
Official Member of the Charleston Convention and Visitors Bureau
Winner Certificate of Excellence TripAdvisor since 2010
FAQ
Do I need to have 6 people to make a reservation?
There is no minimum amount but the rate for 2 passengers is the same for 6. Its a great trip for small groups as well as larger.
Why does a private charter cost so much?
We have succeded in bring you the lowest rates possible for our charters and still stay in business. Owning and running a motor yacht is extremely expensive. A vessel like Kismet would cost nearly $375,000 to purchase, add in yearly dock fees, property taxes, fuel, insurance, staff and maintenence and you will understand some of the expenses. It takes the first 100 charters per year just to break even. This is why chartering a yacht is a much better idea then private yacht ownership. Plus having a professional crew takes the stress off you, allowing you to have the best time possible.
What should I bring with me?
A camera is a must-have item! You might also want to bring binoculars, hat, or sunscreen. You are welcome to bring beverages and snacks on the boat including alcoholic beverages or have it catered.
Can I bring a cooler?
Yes, you can bring coolers on Kismet but not Fate. We do have space on the back deck for small coolers, dock carts are available for easy transport.
What should I wear?
Summer time is hot but some may desire a long sleeved shirt to help keep the sun off.
During the winter dress in layers with comfortable and casual clothes. Definitely bring a warm jacket or sweater because sometimes it can be a bit cool on the water. All passengers should wear soft-soled tennis shoes only. No boots or high-heels please! (For safety reasons, passengers that are not wearing proper foot attire may be asked by the Captain to remove their shoes.)
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule your trip, we require that you notify us a minimum of 7 days prior to your charter date. If a reservation is made and or cancelled within seven days of the charter date a 50% refund will be given. No refunds within 24 hours of the charter.
Should I tip the Captain and crew?
Gratuity for your Captain or crew is included at the time of booking at 16% of the charter fee. If you enjoyed your experience and thought we went above average for levels of service, feel free to tip more. The majority of the crews income is based on gratuities
What happens if there is bad weather?
The #1 question. Cancellations due to weather are at the discretion of the Captain. The boat is protected and if a rain cloud appears you wont get wet unless you want to. Rain typically only lasts a few minutes if it happens at all. We cancel less then 1% of our charters each year, if we must cancel your trip because of unfavorable or unsafe weather/ocean conditions you'll be given the option of rescheduling or if we are unable to reschedule we will refund your entire charter amount. Please note, the weather forecast nearly every day says 30-50% chance of rain, this does not mean Seattle rain, just pop up thunderstorm or small rain clouds passing by.
Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Although we can sometimes take last minute sign-ups, we highly recommend that you call and make a reservation in advance. If you plan to go during the major holidays or events we recommend calling aat least 6 months in advance.
Do you provide food and refreshments on the boat?
In our effort to continue offering charters at a low price we regret that we are unable to provide food and alocohal beverage service. However, you are welcome to bring aboard your own snacks and drinks. For safety reasons we ask that you do not bring glass beer bottles, wine and champagne are completely acceptable. Complimentary water and sodas are provided.
Do children or infants count as a passenger?
Yes, they do. The United States Coast Guard considers every person, except for the Captain and crew as a passengers. Children require supervision by parent or guardian at all times and must be capable of remaining calmly seated for several hours. If you are bringing younger children, we recommend a charter length of no longer then 2 hours.
Can I bring more than 6 passengers?
Yes, Kismet has been specifically designed to carry up to 24 passengers. You will find 24 to be pretty tight, we recommend keeping the maximum passenger count to around 14 adults and 5 children.
Are your yachts safe?
Our yachts are clean, well maintained, and fully insured for charter. Vessel meets or exceeds safety requirements by the United States Coast Guard with on board equipment that includes Type 1 Personal Flotation Devices (life jackets) for every passenger, an approved Sound Producing Device, fire extinguishers, flares, a VHF radio, & an approved ring buoy. They also meet equipment, operation, and pollution prevention regulations established by the Coast Guard. Vessel Captains possess a valid license issued by the U. S. Coast Guard and undergo random drug screenings.
Will I get seasick?
The majority of individuals don't get seasick. But concerned passengers could bring products that contain ginger, such as ginger cookers or Ginger Ale, because they have been known to help calm an upset stomach. Be sure to start taking the day before for best results. Stay away from the drowsy kinds.
Recommendations provided for informational purposes only. Please consult your physician with any questions regarding a medical condition.
About Charleston Yacht Charters
Cancellation Policy
In the event of request for cancellation by the charter guest once paid in full, a full refund will be giving outside of 7 days from the scheduled time. Within 7 days there will be a 50% refund. There is no refund for cancellations within 24 hours of the scheduled charter. We are charged for each credit charge and refund, cancellations mean we lose out on other charter guests that we turned down because of your booking. However, you may reschedule your charter if you wish with applicable fees.
Rescheduling Fees
Charter fees are deemed earned upon placing a hold for desired date and time. Charterer's requests for rescheduling will be considered on a case by case basis and are subject to a rescheduling fee. The rescheduling fee is determined by the amount of notice given prior to the charter date and time and are as follows:
Outside 7 days no fee
Within 7 days of sailing: $200
Within 24 hours prior to sail: No Refund without Trip Protection
Trip Protection (Optional)
Purchasing trip protection allows you to cancel or reschedule your cruise at any time for any reason up to 1 hour prior to trip departure. You will be reimbursed for the full amount of charter fee less the cost of trip protection, booking and processing fees.
Weather cancelations are at the discretion of the Captain only and at the time of the charter. The weather forecasts are never correct, we always show up to the boat and see what the weather is at the time of the charter. First we will postpone if time is available and if the weather is moving off. If conditions do not improve and the captain cancels the charter, you will have the option to a full refund or reschedule if available. We do not cancel charters for light rain or windy conditions.
See the entire company policy here.
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