Adventure Collective
null - Charleston

July 4th Fireworks Cruise on The Carolina Belle

Charlestoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels, no strenuous activity required since passengers remain seated or casually move around the boat.

Overview

Celebrate the Fourth of July in style aboard The Carolina Belle with Charleston Harbor Tours. Enjoy exclusive waterfront views, historic sights, and dazzling fireworks on this unforgettable private cruise experience.

Boat Tour
Charleston, South Carolina

July 4th Fireworks Cruise on The Carolina Belle

Fireworks | Beautiful Views! | Live DJ

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Adventure Photos

July 4th Fireworks Cruise on The Carolina Belle photo 1

About This Adventure

Join the Carolina Belle for an unforgettable evening on the water, featuring stunning views of Charleston Harbor and the spectacular Annual Fireworks display at Patriots Point. Enjoy light snacks, a fully stocked cash bar, and lively patriotic tunes from a live DJ, making this the ultimate 4th of July celebration!

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!

Regular Tickets - $75.00

VIP Tickets $90.00 - early boarding and 1 drink per person

While on board you will see such sights as:

  • 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!

This cruise is perfect for couples, groups of friends and anyone looking for a good time for the 4th!

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.

Meeting Location

Charleston Maritime Center, 10 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC 29401

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.

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.

About

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.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Boarding

Plan to arrive at least 20 minutes before the scheduled departure to ensure smooth boarding and settle in comfortably.

Dress for Summer Evenings

Even in summer, evenings on the water can be breezy—bring a light jacket or sweater to stay comfortable during the fireworks.

Bring a Camera with Zoom

Capture the fireworks and waterfront views by bringing a camera with a good zoom lens to get clear photos from the boat.

Limited Restroom Facilities

The Carolina Belle has onboard restrooms, but lines can form during peak times; plan accordingly.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Brown pelicans
  • dolphins swimming near the harbor entrance

History

Charleston Harbor has long been a strategic and cultural hub, with historic forts and waterfront districts playing key roles throughout American history.

Conservation

Efforts in Charleston Harbor include water quality improvement and habitat preservation to protect both aquatic wildlife and the scenic harbor environment.

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Adventure Hotspots in Charleston

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Light Jacket or Sweater

Essential

Keeps you warm in the cooler evening breezes over the water.

summer specific

Camera or Smartphone with Zoom

Essential

Capture bright fireworks and scenic waterfront views during the cruise.

Sunscreen

Essential

Protect your skin during pre-sunset cruising when the sun is still strong.

summer specific

Refillable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated while enjoying the boat tour, especially on warm days.