Sails, Skyline, and Salt Air: Private Charters & Events on Charleston Harbor
A private, 55-foot catamaran turns Charleston’s harbor into your event venue—sunset skyline, dolphins, and seamless planning included.
The tide nudges you seaward before the lines are even off. Pelicans arc low over Shem Creek like practiced escorts, and the marsh grass shivers in the morning breeze. Then you step aboard a 55-foot catamaran with the kind of confidence only a wide, stable deck can offer. The Palmetto Breeze settles under your feet, a floating terrace with cushioned benches and open sky. As the crew swings the gate closed and the dock drifts backward, Charleston’s steepled skyline lifts its head, and the Ravenel Bridge stretches like a long exhale over the Cooper River.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive Early to Ease Parking
Shem Creek lots fill quickly on weekends and at sunset—arrive 20–30 minutes early to park, check in, and settle aboard.
Dress for the Breeze
Even on warm days, wind over water cools quickly. Pack a light layer for sunset sails and shoulder seasons.
Footwear Matters
Wear non-marking, flat-soled shoes. Heels are prohibited and unsafe on deck.
Time It for Golden Hour
Book late afternoon or sunset for the best light on the Ravenel Bridge and skyline—prime conditions for photos.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Pitt Street Bridge Park for marsh views and a quiet sunset before or after your sail
- •Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park beneath the Ravenel Bridge for dramatic skyline angles
Wildlife
Bottlenose dolphin, Brown pelican
Conservation Note
Shem Creek’s marsh is a nursery for fish, shrimp, and crabs—pack out all trash and keep plastics secured. Give dolphins space and never feed wildlife.
Fort Sumter, at the entrance of the harbor, saw the first shots of the Civil War on April 12, 1861. Shem Creek has long been a hub for the Lowcountry’s shrimping fleet and maritime trade.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Mild temperatures, Active dolphin sightings
Challenges: Occasional windy fronts, High pollen counts
Spring brings fresh breezes and comfortable temps—ideal for daytime sails with bright colors and lively harbor traffic.
summer
Best for: Reliable sea breezes, Long daylight windows
Challenges: Heat and humidity, Pop-up thunderstorms
Summer is vibrant on the water; plan earlier or later departures to avoid peak heat and monitor forecasts for quick-moving storms.
fall
Best for: Spectacular sunsets, Lower humidity
Challenges: Occasional king tides, Nor’easter patterns
Fall is prime: crisp evenings, golden light, and calm conditions make for standout wedding and event sails.
winter
Best for: Quiet waterfront, Crisp air clarity
Challenges: Limited charter operations, Cooler temperatures
Most charters run March–November; off-season options are limited—reach out for availability and bundle up if you go.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Light Windbreaker or SweaterEssential
Harbor breezes drop temperatures quickly, especially around sunset.
Polarized SunglassesEssential
Cuts glare off the water and makes dolphin spotting and skyline viewing more comfortable.
Non-Marking Deck ShoesEssential
Flat, grippy soles keep you steady and protect the boat’s deck.
Phone Lanyard or Small Dry Bag
Protects devices from spray and accidental drops while you’re moving around the deck.
Common Questions
Where do we board the Palmetto Breeze?
Enter the Shem Creek boardwalk between Water’s Edge Restaurant and Mount Pleasant Seafood, then walk straight to the gated lower dock—the crew will open the gate at check-in.
Can we bring our own alcohol?
No outside alcohol is permitted. An onboard bar offers beer, wine, seltzers, soft drinks, and CBD beverages; no hard liquor is served.
Is the boat wheelchair or stroller accessible?
Due to dock and boarding constraints, the vessel is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.
What happens if the weather turns bad?
The captain may adjust the route, delay, or reschedule for safety. You’ll be notified of options; safety is the priority.
What’s the cancellation policy?
Cancellation is free up until 10 days before your charter. Within 10 days, the reservation is locked in.
Will we see dolphins?
Bottlenose dolphins are common in Charleston Harbor and often ride the bow, but sightings can’t be guaranteed.
What to Pack
Non-marking deck shoes for safe footing; Polarized sunglasses to cut glare and spot dolphins; Light layer for breezy, cooler conditions on the water; Phone lanyard or small dry bag to protect devices from spray and slips.
Did You Know
The first shots of the American Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor on April 12, 1861.
Quick Travel Tips
Book sunset slots early—fall weekends sell out; Plan ride-shares for busy Shem Creek evenings when parking is tight; Bring cards, not cash—the onboard bar is debit/credit only; Arrive 20–30 minutes early to find the gate and board stress-free.
Local Flavor
After docking, keep the Lowcountry roll going: grab she-crab soup and a cold pint at Waters Edge, peel-and-eat shrimp at Red’s Ice House, or smoked fish dip at Saltwater Cowboys along the boardwalk. Craft beer fans should swing by Westbrook Brewing in Mount Pleasant, and dessert seekers can hunt down pralines downtown. Gullah Geechee flavors—shrimp and grits, okra, benne seeds—anchor menus across the city.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Charleston International (CHS), ~20–25 minutes by car. Departure: Shem Creek boardwalk gate between Water’s Edge Restaurant and Mount Pleasant Seafood. Drive time from downtown Charleston: ~10–15 minutes (traffic varies). Cell service: Generally strong on the harbor. Permits: None required for guests; follow crew safety instructions and bar policies (no hard liquor).
Sustainability Note
Charleston Harbor’s marshes are vital nurseries—avoid single-use plastics, secure lightweight items in the breeze, and never harass or feed dolphins or birds. Respect wake zones and follow crew guidance to minimize shoreline erosion.