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Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124

Experience a private 3-hour sandbar boat tour in Charleston for up to 16 people, including a licensed captain, cooler, and amazing harbor views.

The Charleston: Private Sandbar Charter with Captain offers a relaxed and personalized way to enjoy Charleston Harbor’s scenic beauty. Priced at $1,100 per group of up to 16, this 3-hour tour provides an intimate setting for celebrating special occasions or simply relaxing with friends. The experience is led by a licensed captain, ensuring safety and local expertise as you cruise through the harbor and anchor at a beautiful local sandbar for swimming, sunbathing, and sipping drinks.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a private, laid-back day on the water, with unforgettable views and the freedom to bring your preferred drinks and snacks. While meals and BYOB are not included, the cooler with ice and Bluetooth speaker make it easy to create your perfect day. The 3-hour duration strikes a nice balance—long enough to unwind without feeling rushed. Keep in mind that this experience is best suited for non-swimmers or those comfortable in the water, as well as people prone to seasickness.
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This private sandbar tour departs from Ripley Light Marina, with the boat docked at Slip B 24. The meetup is straightforward, and travelers are recommended to arrive 15 minutes early to settle in and prepare for the trip. The marina’s location offers easy access to the scenic Charleston Harbor, setting the stage for a peaceful cruise.
The meeting point’s clarity and the dock’s accessibility ensure a smooth start to your adventure. Since transportation is not included, arriving by car or arranging your own transfer is advisable. Once aboard, the licensed captain takes the helm, guiding the group through the harbor’s calm waters.

The voyage begins with a scenic cruise through Charleston Harbor. The licensed captain shares insights about the area’s landmarks and local scenery, making the ride both relaxing and informative. The harbor views include sights of the skyline, historic sites, and the expansive waterway that surrounds Charleston.
This private cruise customizes the experience for your group, offering the chance to enjoy panoramic vistas at your own pace. The captain’s expertise ensures smooth navigation, and the laid-back atmosphere encourages conversation and relaxation. The scenic cruise sets the perfect mood for the day, whether you’re celebrating or simply soaking in the views.
After cruising through the harbor, the boat anchors at a local sandbar, a highlight of this experience. The sandbar offers shallow waters suitable for swimming and wading, with plenty of space for sunbathing and relaxation. The shallow depths make it accessible for non-swimmers and children, provided they are comfortable in the water.
Guests can enjoy sipping drinks from the cooler while lounging on the sandbar, soaking up the Charleston sunshine. The unspoiled natural setting and clear waters make this a peaceful spot to unwind. The sandbar’s location and calm waters create an ideal environment for casual swimming and sunbathing without crowds or noise.
More Great Tours NearbyWhile meals and alcohol are not included, guests are encouraged to bring their favorite drinks and snacks to enjoy during the trip. A cooler with ice is provided, making it easy to keep beverages cold throughout the journey. The Bluetooth speaker adds a personal touch, allowing guests to play their preferred music.
Planning to wear sunscreen, bring sunglasses, and pack a hat enhances the comfort during this outdoor adventure. It’s advisable to bring a waterproof camera to capture the stunning harbor scenery and fun moments at the sandbar. The laid-back vibe is perfect for creating a personalized playlist and relaxing in the sun.
Preparation is key for a smooth trip. Guests should arrive 15 minutes early at Ripley Light Marina. Since transportation to the marina is not included, arranging your own transfer is recommended. The tour duration of 3 hours gives ample time to cruise, relax at the sandbar, and enjoy some downtime.
Packing swimwear, towels, sunscreen, and waterproof cameras ensures you’re ready for all activities. The group size of up to 16 maintains an intimate atmosphere, ideal for celebrations or casual gatherings. The tour’s flexibility allows for a relaxed pace—perfect for unwinding and soaking up Charleston’s water scenery.
Guests should avoid bringing glass objects, as they are not allowed aboard for safety reasons. Alcohol and drugs are also prohibited onboard, maintaining a family-friendly, responsible environment. The littering rule emphasizes respecting the natural setting, so it’s best to keep the area clean.
It’s important to note that non-swimmers and those prone to seasickness might find this trip less suitable. The calm waters of the harbor and the short duration help minimize seasickness, but personal comfort should be considered when booking.
One of the key highlights of this tour is the stunning view of Charleston’s skyline from the water. As the boat glides through the harbor, the vista of historic buildings and modern skyscrapers provides a picturesque backdrop. These views are especially striking at sunset, although the tour duration is 3 hours, so timing can be tailored to your schedule.
Guests appreciate the unobstructed panoramas, which offer excellent photo opportunities. The combination of nautical scenery and urban landscape makes this experience highly photogenic and memorable.
This tour’s private group setting ensures that your experience remains exclusive and tailored. With up to 16 guests, it’s perfect for celebrations like birthdays or bachelorette parties, or simply enjoying a personal gathering with friends or family.
The personalized nature of a private captain-led tour means you control the playlist, stops, and overall pace. This flexibility enhances the experience, making it less structured and more suited to your group’s preferences.
The tour offers the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind in case of weather changes or schedule conflicts. The Reserve Now & Pay Later option allows for booking your date without immediate payment, ensuring your plans stay flexible.
This 5-star provider, Sip and Sea Charleston, is known for professionalism and quality, making it a trustworthy choice for your private water adventure. The straightforward booking process and local expertise make planning easy and stress-free.
This private sandbar charter appeals most to groups seeking a laid-back, customizable experience on the water. It suits celebrations, family gatherings, or friendly get-togethers who want to enjoy Charleston from a unique perspective.
While it doesn’t include meals or alcohol, the freedom to bring your own makes it flexible for different tastes. Its short duration and easy access from the marina make it ideal for those who want a quick escape and beautiful views without a full-day commitment.
In summary, this private sandbar tour combines scenic cruising with the fun of anchoring at a sandy spot for swimming and relaxing. The licensed captain ensures a safe and enjoyable experience, while the included cooler and Bluetooth speaker allow for a personalized day.
The $1,100 price for up to 16 guests offers good value considering the privacy, scenic views, and customizable nature of the outing. It’s a perfect choice for those wanting a relaxed, personalized way to enjoy Charleston’s waterways.
What should I bring for the trip?
Bring sunglasses, hat, swimwear, towel, snacks, drinks, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera.
Are meals included?
No, meals and BYOB are not included, but you are welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for non-swimmers?
It is not suitable for non-swimmers, as they might have difficulty enjoying the swimming at the sandbar.
How many people can join?
The group size is limited to 16 guests, making it ideal for smaller, private groups.
Where exactly does the tour start?
The tour departs from Ripley Light Marina, Slip B 24.