Celebrate your special occasion with an unforgettable boat cruise on Charleston’s Shem Creek. Enjoy swimming, drinks, and stunning views with a customizable charter experience. Read on to learn what makes this trip so memorable.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Relaxed activity; no physical fitness required beyond comfortable walking and sitting.
Wildlife
History
Shem Creek has been a busy fishing spot since the 1800s, serving as a gateway for local commerce and recreation.
Conservation
Quarterdeck Charters promotes eco-friendly practices by encouraging guests to respect wildlife and dispose of waste responsibly.
Quarterdeck Charters
Celebrate your special occasion with an unforgettable boat cruise on Charleston’s Shem Creek. Enjoy swimming, drinks, and stunning views with a customizable charter experience. Read on to learn what makes this trip so memorable.
Quarterdeck Charters is a boat charter company based in Charleston, South Carolina. The company operates a 32’ dual console boat and offers a range of water experiences including bareboat charters, 6-pack charters, inshore fishing, and specialty trips like bachelor/bachelorette cruises and date-night transfers to Shem Creek.
Quarterdeck Charters provides captains from an approved list and also allows customers to choose their own captain for certain charters. For inshore fishing trips the company supplies all gear and provides expert guidance from its captain, and offers a catch & cook option upon request. Beach Day and Anchor & Swim charters visit islands reachable only by boat, offering swimming, wildlife viewing, and optional Lilypad float rentals to enhance the experience.
Harbor Cruise and Sightseeing charters showcase Charleston waterways, with opportunities to see landmarks such as Fort Sumter and local wildlife including dolphins. The 6-pack and bareboat formats accommodate different group sizes and preferences, with family-friendly seating that transitions between fishing and cruising. Quarterdeck Charters also runs dinner transfer rides to Shem Creek for scenic dining nights.
Operations emphasize local knowledge, certified captains, and vessels equipped for comfort and safety. As a business located in Charleston, Quarterdeck Charters markets trips that highlight Lowcountry scenery, historic sites, and accessible island beaches. Prospective guests are encouraged to inquire about captain options, Lilypad additions, and provisioning to customize each charter.
Quarterdeck Charters has been featured on The Adventure Collective and operates primarily in Charleston Harbor and nearby barrier islands. Booking details and availability are provided on request.
Location
Charleston, SC
Operates in Charleston waterways
Vessel
32’ dual console
Comfortable, family-friendly seating
Trip Types
Bareboat • 6-Pack • Fishing • Tours
Multiple formats for groups
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Included in curated travel listings
Reserve a bareboat, 6-pack, inshore fishing trip or Shem Creek dinner transfer — inquire about approved captains, Lilypad floats, and catch & cook options.
Bring sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear hats to stay comfortable during the day.
Book in advance
Reserve your spot early to ensure availability for your preferred date.
Pack light but smart
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a towel, and waterproof snacks for convenience.
Coordinate with captain about stops
Discuss desired locations or islands beforehand for a personalized adventure.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from the sun during the boat trip.
summer
Swimsuit
Wear or bring a swimsuit for swimming at the island.
summer
Sun hat
Shield your face from direct sunlight during your cruise.
spring,summer,fall
Weather-appropriate clothing
Dress in layers to stay comfortable in varying temperatures.
spring,winter