Myrtle Beach to Charleston with Horse & Carriage Ride, Harbor Cruise, Boone Hall

Discover Charleston in a Day with Myrtle Beach to Charleston Tour

This full-day Myrtle Beach to Charleston trip offers an engaging way to explore one of America’s most historic cities. For $215 per person, you get a 10.5-hour itinerary packed with notable attractions, including a horse-drawn carriage ride, a harbor cruise, and a guided visit to Boone Hall Plantation. The tour departs from Myrtle Beach at 7:00 am with round-trip transportation included, making it a convenient all-in-one experience aimed at first-time visitors or those seeking a rundown of Charleston.

While the tour offers many highlights, including a boxed lunch and visits to iconic sites like the Old City Market, some reviews point out that the pace can be tight, and time at certain stops may be limited. This tour suits travelers eager to see Charleston’s top sights without the hassle of planning individual activities, though it’s best for those comfortable with a busy schedule.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Myrtle Beach to Charleston, lasting about 10.5 hours
• Price: $215 per person, including transportation, a boxed lunch, and all activities
• Highlights include a horse & carriage ride, harbor cruise, and Boone Hall Plantation tour
• Stops at Charleston City Market and other key attractions
• Group size is limited to 48 travelers for a more personal experience
• Reviews praise guides, scenic views, and the variety of activities, though some mention time constraints

Starting Point and Departure Details in Myrtle Beach

The tour begins at Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach located at 1110 Celebrity Cir, Myrtle Beach, SC. Travelers should arrive early as the tour departs promptly at 7:00 am. The transportation is via a motor-coach bus equipped with a restroom, ensuring comfort during the approximately 10.5-hour trip.

The round-trip service makes it a stress-free option to visit Charleston without worrying about parking or navigating on your own. The bus picks up and drops off at the same Myrtle Beach location, streamlining the day’s logistics.

Exploring Charleston’s Historic Downtown by Carriage

The first stop in Charleston is a one-hour carriage tour of the historic downtown district. The guides provide commentary on Charleston’s famous architecture and historic landmarks, often with added humor, making it both informative and entertaining. The carriage ride is led by Eli or Roland, the horses that pull the carriage, with Harmony being the name of the horse noted in reviews.

This activity is appreciated for its personalized storytelling and the opportunity to see Charleston from a charming, traditional perspective. The carriage ride sets the tone for understanding the city’s timeless appeal.

Limited Time at the Charleston City Market

Following the carriage ride, the tour includes a 30-minute stop at the Charleston City Market. This historic marketplace features local vendors and craft stalls, offering a chance for quick browsing and shopping. However, the limited time might restrict how much browsing can be done, especially if travelers wish to spend more time at individual vendors.

This stop provides a brief taste of Charleston’s vibrant shopping scene and local culture, perfect for picking up souvenirs or just soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Charleston Harbor Cruise on the Carolina Belle

One of the tour’s highlights is a 90-minute harbor cruise aboard the Carolina Belle. The cruise is live narrated, sharing stories about Charleston’s maritime history and famous landmarks along the harbor. The boxed lunch is served onboard during this time, making it both a sightseeing and dining experience.

Reviewers often mention the scenic views and the well-narrated commentary, which enriches the harbor experience. The cruise provides a relaxing break from walking and a unique perspective on Charleston’s waterfront.

Boone Hall Plantation Guided Tour

The final major activity is a guided tour of Boone Hall Plantation, lasting about two hours. Visitors explore the grounds, gardens, and house, learning about the plantation’s history, including the Avenue of the Oaks, a iconic canopy of live oaks framing the estate. The house tour covers a few rooms, but the grounds are expansive and well-maintained.

Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful gardens, making this a memorable part of the day. However, some note that the house tour is relatively brief, so visitors interested in deep historical exploration might find it somewhat limited.

The Old City Market and Additional Highlights

While the Old City Market is only allocated a brief stop, it offers an opportunity for quick shopping or to absorb the lively ambiance of downtown Charleston. It is a popular spot to find local crafts and souvenirs.

The tour also provides transportation between all stops, alleviating the hassle of navigating Charleston’s streets independently. The all-inclusive package makes this a convenient way to cover multiple sights efficiently.

Practical Details: Logistics and Comfort

The pickup from Myrtle Beach is at Ripley’s Aquarium, with round-trip transportation included in the tour price. The motor coach has a restroom onboard, useful for the long day. Travelers are encouraged to wear casual clothing suitable for outdoor activities and walking.

Snacks for purchase are available on the boat, but the boxed lunch is included in the package. Travelers should bring cash for any additional purchases or souvenirs, as these are not included. The group size is capped at 48 travelers, balancing a social atmosphere with personal space.

Reviews and Feedback: Strengths and Limitations

The tour maintains a 4.5/5 rating from 245 reviews, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and the variety of activities. The harbor cruise and plantation tour are often highlighted as particular favorites. The driver, especially noted in reviews as Wendy, earns praise for safe, friendly, and efficient service.

However, some reviews call attention to time constraints, especially at the City Market and Boone Hall house tour, which can feel rushed. Several reviewers mention disorganization issues, such as missed pickups or booking mishaps, emphasizing the importance of timely arrival and confirmations. The cost of nearly $400 for a couple might seem high to some, given the shorter stops and limited time at certain sites.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour suits first-time visitors looking for an organized, all-inclusive day trip that covers Charleston’s highlights. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, scenic lovers, and those who prefer guided transportation over DIY planning. Travelers wanting more flexibility or in-depth exploration might find the schedule too tight.

The family-friendly nature of the activities, combined with casual dress and easy accessibility, makes it accessible for most people. However, it’s best for those comfortable with a busy schedule and shorter stop durations.

Myrtle Beach to Charleston with Horse & Carriage Ride, Harbor Cruise, Boone Hall: Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rundown of Charleston in a manageable, all-in-one package. The horse carriage ride and harbor cruise stand out for their scenic charm, while the Boone Hall Plantation provides a touch of Southern history. The included boxed lunch and round-trip transportation add convenience, making it a practical choice for visitors who want to maximize their day.

That said, time limitations at some stops and occasional organizational hiccups are worth noting. For those eager to see the essence of Charleston without the hassle of planning, this tour delivers a solid experience. For a fuller exploration, visitors might consider supplementing with additional time on their own.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $215 per person, including transportation, activities, and a boxed lunch.

What are the main activities included?
Participants enjoy a horse & carriage ride, harbor cruise, and guided tour of Boone Hall Plantation.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from Ripley’s Aquarium of Myrtle Beach at 1110 Celebrity Cir.

How long does the entire trip last?
The total duration is approximately 10.5 hours.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip motor coach transportation from Myrtle Beach is included.

Are there any additional costs?
Souvenirs, extra food, drinks, and purchases at stops are not included and require cash if desired.

Are children allowed on this tour?
While specific age restrictions are not stated, the casual dress code and family-friendly activities suggest it suits most age groups.

What should I wear?
Casual clothing suitable for outdoor activities and walking is recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is dependent on good weather, and if canceled due to weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible, but participants should be comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.

How many people typically join?
The group is limited to a maximum of 48 travelers for a more personalized experience.