duration: 2 Hours
cancellation_summary: Non-refundable. Bookings can be rescheduled with 24 hours notice
meeting_point: Charleston Maritime Center, near Calhoun and Concord, Charleston, SC
description: Come aboard the Carolina Belle for a fun filled evening and beautiful views! Be front and center for the Annual Fireworks display at Patriots Point. There will be light snacks for purchase on board a fully stocked cash bar on board with beer, wine and cocktails. These are the best seats around for the 4th of July Fireworks. We will also have a live DJ featuring some great patriotic tunes for your enjoyment!

About our company

Charleston Harbor Tours is the longest continuously operating harbor tour company in Charleston, tracing its roots to 1908.

The company specializes in introducing its guests to the beauty and history of Charleston, the Holy City. Your captain and staff will be eager to make your experience aboard the Carolina Belle a pleasant and enjoyable one.

This cruise is perfect for couples, groups of friends and anyone looking for a good time for the 4th!
what_is_included: * The magnificent views of Charleston Harbor at Sunset
* beautiful homes on The Battery
* White Point Gardens
* Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney and the USS Yorktown
* The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
* and of course, Fireworks!
what_is_not_included: Alcoholic beverages are not included (except for the drinks with the VIP ticket), but we will have a fully stocked cash bar on board with a wide variety of beer wine and liquor.
check_in_details: We will begin boarding VIP tickets at 7pm and General Admission at 7:30pm.
extras:

faqs: 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.

What happens if it rains?

The cruises take place rain or shine, regardless of weather conditions. The boat has a glassed-in, enclosed observatory, so you'll be able to get great views of the Harbor's famous sights in any weather!

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

No, we ask you not to bring any food or drinks on board. We will have a fully stocked cash bar with alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages. We will have snacks available for purchase as well.

Smoking Policy
Smoke free event, no smoking or vaping of any kind on our vessels.

What should I wear?

Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Keep in mind that the temperature on the water is significantly cooler 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 Boat safe?

The Belle is a safe vessel with a normal operating crew of 4. She is certified to cruise the inland waterways by the USCG and meets all the US Coast Guard safety requirements.

Will I get seasick?

The Belle is a steady 80-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 wheelchair accessible?

The vessel is not ADA compliant, however, 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.

Is there any narration on the tour?

There will be light narration.

What time does the fireworks display begin?

The start time will depend on a few different factors, however, historically the fireworks start after dark. While we cannot guarantee an exact start time, we will be out on the water when it begins!

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?

The closest parking is at meters on Concord Street or at the Aquarium Parking Garage at 24 Calhoun Street.

Where does the cruise finish?

The cruise finishes in the same place from which it departs, The Charleston Maritime Center, 10 Wharfside Street.

Is there a restroom on the boat?

Yes, the boat is equipped with a clean restroom.

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.

What exactly do we see on the cruise?

Some of the sites you'll see include: the white steeple of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, the stately homes along the Battery, 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.