Hoist sails on the Schooner Pride and glide through Charleston Harbor past Fort Sumter, USS Yorktown and the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. Expect playful dolphins, panoramic waterfront views and a relaxed 90‑minute sailing experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Step aboard the 84‑foot Schooner Pride at Aquarium Wharf and feel the harbor breath under canvas as the crew hoists sails. The city slips sideways — brick warehouses, the masts of the Ravenel Bridge looming, and playful bottlenose dolphins cutting white wakes alongside the bow. Salt air and rigging creak become the soundtrack to an hour‑and‑a‑half that moves at the speed of wind.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours (90 minutes)
Fitness Level
Suitable for nearly all fitness levels; requires climbing a few steps and steady balance on a moving deck
Wildlife
History
Charleston Harbor was the scene of the Civil War’s opening engagement at Fort Sumter and has been a strategic port since colonial times, with historic shipping lanes and naval activity shaping its shoreline.
Conservation
Operators encourage respectful wildlife viewing and limit disturbance; stay a safe distance from dolphins and avoid feeding wildlife to protect natural behaviors.
Reserve your spot on the Afternoon Schooner Sightseeing Dolphin Cruise on Charleston Harbor today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure; boarding requires a short gangplank and multiple steps.
Sun Protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses — the lowcountry sun reflects off the water and can be intense even in late afternoon.
Seasickness Prep
If you’re susceptible to motion sickness, take preventative measures (medication or acupressure bands) before boarding.
Food & Drink Rules
You may bring snacks but not outside beverages; beer, wine and soft drinks are available for purchase onboard.
Non‑slip shoes
Provide traction on wet or moving decks and make boarding safer.
Sunscreen & hat
Protects skin from reflected sun during afternoon sails.
summer
Light windproof layer
Blocks chill from wind over the water, useful in spring and fall.
spring
Binoculars or camera
Useful for spotting dolphins, pelicans and distant landmarks like Fort Sumter and the Ravenel Bridge.