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Charleston Yacht Tours

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BOAT TOUR RIDES CHARLESTON SC

During your Charleston boat tour you will witness the beauty that has made Charleston the #1 city in the world in many folks’ minds year after year. Impressive, but what is beauty without a little brawn? During your private charter boat tour in Charleston, SC you will see the Yorktown, Fort Sumter, Fort Johnson, Fort Moultrie, Castle Pinkney, and the world-renowned Battery and White Point Garden, which housed artillery during the Civil War. If you think all of that sounds amazing, just wait until you see the sunset. Experiencing the Charleston sunset from the water will leave you breathless! After you catch your breath, the sunset will serve as the perfect backdrop for family portraits, engagements, you name it. Book with one of Charleston’s most experienced boat tour companies today!

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Charleston Harbor is the most historic and beautiful Harbor in the country. See all of its beauty with a Charleston Yacht Tour!

Sunsets in Charleston are the prettiest time of the day. Enjoy them with cocktails and friends, don’t forget your camera for the best Instagram pics!

The best way to party in Charleston is in a boat! All our boats have bathrooms, Bluetooth stereo, coolers and ice. Just BYOB!

Anyone can have a bachelor party at a bar. Have the most memorable one on a boat with Charleston Yacht Tours!

Show your employees you appreciate them. Take them out with us for happy hour or team building. A meeting is more enjoyable on the water.

Whether you’re looking to impress out-of-town business associates or just get out of the downtown office for the day, we’re excited to help.

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Boat tour rates, for up to 28 guests.

Charleston Yacht Tours start at $900 for 2.5 hours. If you want to book a Charleston Harbor Cruise all day or night, it will only cost you an extra $300/half hour. Additional hours must be booked in advance. Due to time constraints, swimming is only available on cruises for three hours or more. Have a smaller group? Check out our other boats.

Have you ever seen the magic of a Charleston sunset? Booking a boat ride in Charleston, SC is a can’t miss on your “things to do" list.. No two sunsets are the same. With your drinks and snacks and alongside your family, friends or coworkers, you’ll relish in the beauty of the colorful sky. We have the answers to any questions about our Charleston boat tours and will provide you with fun and general information to take home and share. Pictures are a must, they’ll be your most liked Insta post!

Get a fun group together and pick up your favorite drinks and snacks. You’ll be greeted by our local captain and first mate. We’ll swing you by all the Charleston hot spots while you enjoy the view, the breeze, and the booze . Whether you decide to sit in the salon (inside living room), the stern, or the bow, you’ll get the full experience of the harbor. We’re more than happy to take pictures of you and your friends too!

Cruise on a

Harbor tour.

The harbor cruise tour is the ultimate opportunity to see Charleston on the water aboard your choice of yacht. Complete with professional captains and first mates, your group of up to 28 people can enjoy the spacious accommodations and a premium, personalized charter yacht experience. You'll enjoy the nautical skills and local knowledge of the captain, while the first mate tends to the food.

Why book a boat tour with us?

Satisfaction guaranteed.

On our Charleston boat tours, food and drink are encouraged! Alcohol is welcome for guests 21 and older. We provide the cooler and ice – aren’t we nice?! Music and boating are like a horse and carriage – They just go together! All of our boats are equipped with Bluetooth stereos system that makes us the envy on the water so bring your tunes. All of our boats have a full Head (bathroom) unlike some other sightseeing boat tours in Charleston, SC.

It's summertime. The perfect boating weather!

Charleston Boat Tours - Experience the Beauty of Charleston

Experience the beauty of one of America’s greatest cities firsthand in complete luxury with our private boat tours of Charleston, SC . This unforgettable tour will whisk you through the attractions, landmarks, and waterways that make this gem of a town stand out. Charleston Boat Tours is the only way to get this decadent experience as one of the top boat tours in the Holy City.

Boat Rides Charleston SC - Lifetime of Memories

When you choose Charleston Yacht Tours , don’t expect anything less than memories that last a lifetime. Our private charter boats are the perfect way for you and your group to explore the history, culture, and wildlife of Charleston in comfort and style. Our professional captains and first mates use their extensive knowledge of the area, which they personalize to make your tour unique and ensure our guests get the most out of their harbor cruise tours.

Magical Sunsets

Love the sunset? How about on the water? You can’t go wrong with our sunset cruise in Charleston, SC , which is nothing less than breathtaking. Watch the sun sink slowly into the horizon as you float gently on glistening water. You and your crew will be enamored by the beautiful colors that fill the sky. There’s no better way to end the day.

Booze, Breeze and Salt Air

If you’re looking for something livelier, check out our Charleston booze cruise . Whether it’s spring break, vacation time, a bachelor/bachelorette party, or just time to let loose, our team can accommodate you. Enjoy the booze, breeze, and salt air as you set off for a boat tour to remember!

Time to Book Your Private Boat Charter in Charleston SC

Whether you choose us for a relaxing outing or for an unforgettable party boat cruise, you can count on Charleston Yacht Tours to provide you with a safe, comfortable, and accommodating setting. Book now for your unforgettable adventure boat rides in Charleston, SC.

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Sandlapper Water Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

$17 All Day Pass – Kids 3 and Under Free!

Departing hourly from four locations : Waterfront Park, Maritime Center, Patriots Point (USS Yorktown) and Charleston Harbor Resort. Kids $15. One way fare: $13. Click here to purchase tickets online.

Catch the Water Taxi for transportation and sightseeing!

The Water Taxi is a great way to see and photograph dolphins!

Board our Water Taxis for a cruise unlike no other!

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17 Ideas For What to Do in Charleston, South Carolina

Looking for tips on what to do in Charleston, South Carolina? Then you’ve come to the right place.

Charleston is famous for its historic sites, 18th century architecture, incredible beaches and nature sites, and warm Southern charm.

Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, you’ll find there are many things to do in Charleston SC.

In this guide, we shared some of our top tips and recommendations for tourist attractions in Charleston, as well as suggestions for places to eat, drink, stay, and explore.

Is Charleston, South Carolina Worth Visiting?

• 1. Explore Sullivan's Island

2. Take the Kids to Splash in the Joe Riley Waterfront Park Fountains

3. check out the stunning architecture of rainbow row, 4. pay a visit to the battery, 5. visit the charleston tea plantations, 6. step back in time at the charleston museum, 7. visit magnolia cemetery, 8. wander around charleston, bars in charleston, 10. check out the markets & shops in charleston, 11. attend one of the top charleston festivals.

• 11. Try Some Good Ol' Southern Cuisine
• 12. Relax on Folly Island's Beaches

13. Head over to Kiawah Island

14. spend a day at the south carolina aquarium, 15. check out patriots point naval & maritime museum, 16. visit the old exchange and provost dungeon, 17. admire the views from ravenel bridge, where to stay in charleston, south carolina, best time of year to visit charleston, getting to and from charleston, final thoughts on things to do in charleston, pin it to pinterest.

Charleston, South Carolina is easily one of the most charming cities in the country, if not the world.

The historic buildings that hosted founding fathers now house award winning restaurants and stores. What’s old becomes new again.

It’s also the ideal combination of beach, city and country, with all three within fifteen minutes of each other, making it one of the best weekend getaways in the USA.

For those reasons and more, it’s absolutely worth visiting. It is included in our best USA road trips list!

Things to Do in Charleston, SC

Below are some of our favorite attractions in Charleston and places to see. Make sure you add a few of these stops to your Charleston itinerary.

1. Explore Sullivan’s Island

There are dozens of barrier islands and beaches surrounding Charleston, but Sullivan’s Island just happens to be my favorite. It is more family-oriented and has the small town atmosphere.

It has a unique blend of history and natural beauty. One of the main reasons to visit here is for the pristine beaches which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing on, as well as opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing in the surrounding waters.

However don’t miss a visit to Fort Moultrie, a national historic landmark that played a significant role in American military history.

The Joe Wiley Waterfront Park is a large urban park with places to walk, jog, play and lounge around.

If you’re visiting on a hot summer’s day, there are two fountains that can keep children entertained and cool during the sweltering summer months.

It’s location next to Charleston harbor offers incredible views from the pier overlooking the water.

Rainbow Row and the Battery are famous for a reason. Rainbow Row is the ideal photospot for a postcard, with houses painted in pastel colors.

This beautiful and historic street dates back to the 18th century and is a prime example of Georgian and Federal architecture.

Stroll along the cobblestone streets and marvel at the vibrant colors of the homes, which have been perfectly preserved.

You can also step into several art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon walk or a day of shopping.

The nearby Battery, or White Point Garden, has some of the city’s most expensive homes overlooking where the Ashley and Cooper Rivers meet.

The Battery offers stunning views of the harbor and Fort Sumter.

The Battery is not only known for its houses, but also the fortified seawall that was constructed in the late 18th century to protect the city against naval attacks.

Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, which is lined with palmetto trees and historic mansions, or relax on one of the many park benches and take in the picturesque views.

Some nearby monuments worth checking out for their architecture are the Confederate Defenders of Charleston monument and the Fort Sumter monument.

Get your entry ticket to Fort Sumter Here.

Charleston is home to several historic plantations, such as Boone Hall Plantation and Magnolia Plantation, feature stunning gardens, historic homes, and educational exhibits that showcase the area’s rich history and culture.

Charleston Tea Garden (Formerly Charleston Tea Plantation) is the nation’s only functioning tea plantation on Wadmalaw Island and is a beautiful day trip activity. They host a music festival every summer

If you only visit one plantation, Middleton Place is my pick because of the gardens and grounds. The house is not too shabby either.

You can also take guided tours of the plantation homes and learn about the lives of the enslaved people who worked on these estates.

Get tours and entrance tickets to the plantations in advance:

• Magnolia Plantation
• Boone Hall Plantation

If you’re looking for things to do in Charleston on a rainy day in town, the Charleston Museum is a great place to go.

The museum was founded in 1773, making it the oldest museum in the United States.

The museum features an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits that offer visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture, plus some artifacts from prehistory.

Instead of wasting time on the long ferry to Fort Sumter or staring into a pool of water housing the Hunley, go to Magnolia Cemetery.

This is the resting place of hundreds of American Civil War soldiers, old Charleston families and all three crews of the Hunley.

Founded in 1849, the cemetery features stunning monuments, intricately designed tombstones, and ancient oak trees that provide a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

As you walk through the cemetery, you can see the final resting place of many notable figures from Charleston’s past, including politicians, military leaders, and artists.

If you really want to get to know the city, skip the horse-drawn carriage tours because the treatment is questionable.

You might also want to skip the ferry to Fort Sumter National Monument because it’s not much to see unless you’re a civil war buff.

Instead, spend time aimlessly walking around the city . This is the best way to see the authentic culture and way of life here.

Across Marion Square from Lower King lies the Upper King Design District, which has a lot of up-and-coming restaurants, vintage boutiques and bookstores.

The Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood used to be mostly low income housing, but now it’s a mix of college students, coffee shops and restaurants.

Some people might be concerned when they hear North Charleston, but Park Circle is a part of the former Naval base. It still has that 1950s vibe and has some great restaurants.

Shem Creek is Mount Pleasant’s seafood mecca, with dozens of seafood joints and boat charter companies lining the inlet.

Old Town reminds us of the time before Charleston became what it is today with an old-fashioned pharmacy and store. It was also the backdrop for scenes in The Notebook .

John’s Island is not a neighborhood as such, but an island off the coast of Charleston. It’s still very rural, but it’s worth the drive just for Angel Oak, the largest living thing east of the Mississippi.

You might also want to experience the barrier islands like Edisto, Kiawah, Johns, and Wadmalaw, which offer unreal natural beauty.

Avondale in West Ashley has a nice dining and shopping area frequented by young professionals.

Check out the Historic Charleston Walking Tour  

9. Go For A Night on the Town in Charleston

Charleston has a lively night life scene and is an excellent city for young (and old) travelers who love to party and enjoy a night on the town. It’s also well known for it’s speakeasy bars, which are hidden behind doors and phone booths.

Upper King is where most of the college bars are located, but that just means that they’re not overpriced.

They are all within walking distance of each other so you can wear the cute shoes instead of the comfortable ones.

Market Street has the most bars but can get crowded and charge covers during high season. Check out Mad River, housed inside a former church, and Market Street Saloon, where ladies dance on the bar Coyote Ugly-style.

Rooftop is on the roof of the Vendue Inn and has beautiful views of downtown Charleston. The cocktail list has Southern-influenced martinis, like the Charleston Sweetini.

The Griffon is an English-style pub where it’s tradition to write your name on a dollar bill and staple it to the wall. They also serve excellent traditional English fish ‘n’ chips.

The Firefly Sweet Tea Vodka distillery is now open for tours, which means you can see where the vodka is produced and even sip on some.

Gene’s Haufbrau is a bar for beer lovers, complete with over 150 beers and as much bar food.

My favorite neighborhood bar was always AC’s Bar and Grill because they have a Beer of the Month special. Their Sunday brunch is ideal for soaking up last night’s booze.

The epicenter of downtown Charleston is King Street, home to all the best bars, restaurants and stores. It’s also the best place for people watching. Once a month, the city shuts down part of it for pedestrians to walk freely.

King Street is a shopping haven in its own right, from Morris Street on Upper King all the way down to the end.

You’ll find a range of stores, including vintage clothing, records, books, antiques, high-end boutiques and chains.

The Historic Charleston City Market has been completely refurbished and now has permanent booths as well as temporary booths, selling the famous sweetgrass baskets and other local wares. The Charleston Farmer’s Market not only sells ready to eat food but sells local art and crafts and fresh produce.

The Tanger Outlets in North Charleston offer deals on Fossil, Coach, BCBG and other high-end brands.

Charleston has hundreds of events throughout the year but without a doubt, the biggest and most famous is the Spoleto USA Arts Festival .

The Cooper River Bridge Run is another big event, a 10K race over the bridge from Mount Pleasant. Whilst  Southeastern Wildlife Expo hosts wildlife experts and artists.

The Charleston Wine + Food Festival brings together local and international chefs for a week of fine dining.

Charleston Fashion Week hosts regional fashion designers and retailers.

11. Try Some Good Ol’ Southern Cuisine

Charleston is a foodie’s city and the question most people ask when you’re hosting out-of-towners is “where are you taking them to eat?”

While there are plenty of big name award-winning restaurants, there are plenty of budget options to satiate your palate.

Budget places to eat in Charleston are…

• Charleston Farmers Market is the hub of all Saturday morning activity, where local farmers and artisans bring their produce and crafts, respectively, to sell to the public. There are also food stalls with every type of cuisine. The longest lines are often at Charleston Crepe Company and Roti Rolls.
• Bowen’s Island Restaurant is a landmark in its own right and has served generations of patrons, even after a devastating fire in 2006 destroyed years of beloved graffiti on its walls. They’ve since rebuilt and serve up the freshest seafood in town, which goes straight from the ocean into the fryer and onto your plate.
• Poe’s Tavern on Sullivan’s Island pays homage to the island’s former resident, Edgar Allan Poe, who spent time as a soldier there. The front porch is very inviting on a summer day with a pint of beer in hand and a burger in front of you.
• Jack’s Cosmic Dogs is like dining in the 1950s. Way out in Mount Pleasant is this roadside stop, known for “cosmic” dogs with special sweet potato mustard and hand cut fries.

For more upmarket places to eat in Charleston, check out the following places:

• Husk is a restaurant owned by McCrady’s Sean Brock, who has been nominated for countless James Beard awards. Either restaurant is a sure thing for terrific food and ambiance.
• FIG , short for Food is Good, is another award winner led by chef Mike Lata. Located on Meeting Street, it’s the ideal place to impress out of towners.
• Halls Chophouse is known for the best cuts of steak with sides to share, best for special occasions or just a cocktail after dinner.
• Fleet Landing is on the cheaper end of the upmarket scale and is the only waterfront restaurant downtown. The refurbished Navy dock has delicious seafood and great views at sunset.

Check out the Downtown Charleston Culinary Tour  

12. Relax on Folly Island’s Beaches

Folly Island is a charming barrier island just outside of Charleston known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty.

The island features miles of pristine beaches, specifically Folly Beach, which is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

You can also walk around the island and explore the charming restaurants, cafes, and shops, or take a stroll along the iconic pier.

With its relaxed vibe and beautiful scenery, Folly Beach is the perfect place to go when you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Check out this boat tour to Folly Island here.

Kiawah Island is another barrier island that has miles of pristine beaches, world-class golf courses, and abundant opportunities for outdoor adventures.

You can take a leisurely bike ride along the island’s many nature trails, go kayaking or paddleboarding, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

The South Carolina Aquarium is the perfect thing to do in Charleston on a rainy day.

The aquarium features several exhibits that showcase the diverse and amazing creatures that call the waters of the Lowcountry home, including sea turtles, sharks, and stingrays.

Visitors can also learn about the aquarium’s conservation efforts and participate in educational programs, and even pay a visit to the touch tank which allows you to get up close to some of the marine life.

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum is a great place to visit for anyone interested in military history and naval technology.

The museum features several exhibits that showcase the region’s military heritage, including the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, a World War II-era aircraft carrier that is now a floating museum.

Explore the ship’s many decks and compartments, learn about the lives of the sailors who served aboard her, and even climb into the cockpit of fighter jet.

Check out this guided tour of Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum.

The Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon allows visitors to glimpse into the city’s colonial and Revolutionary War-era history.

The building itself served as a hub for political and social activity during the 18th century and was even used as a prison during the American Revolution.

You can take a guided tour of the building and explore the Provost Dungeon, where prisoners of war were held during the conflict.

The museum also features several exhibits that showcase Charleston’s role in the American Revolution and the city’s rich cultural heritage.

The Ravenel Bridge is a marvel of engineering that offers breathtaking views of the city and its surrounding waterways.

The cable-stayed bridge spans over two miles across the Cooper River, connecting downtown Charleston with Mount Pleasant.

You can take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the bridge’s pedestrian path, which offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the harbor.

The bridge is also illuminated at night, creating a stunning visual display that is not to be missed.

If you’re not sure where to stay in Charleston, here are a couple of suggest hotels and vacation rentals.

If you’re visiting on a budget, you may want to check out…

• Charleston Not So Hostel is the only hostel in Charleston and even in the state of South Carolina. The Spring Street location offers both dorm and private rooms and they’ve recently opened a second location on Cannon Street that has more private rooms.
• Embassy Suites is located in Marion Square’s former Citadel building and they have the best hotel breakfast in town.
• The Charleston Marriott on Lockwood Boulevard has views of the Marina, is a short walk from the Charleston Riverdogs baseball stadium. The Aqua Terrace rooftop bar is perfect for a sunset drink.

If you have a little more in your budget, these are some excellent upmarket places to stay in Charleston…

• Arguably the most luxurious hotel in town, Charleston Place has world famous restaurants, shopping and a spa.
• The Francis Marion Hotel is the only tall building in sight, having been built in 1924 before the rule was established that you can’t build higher than the church steeples.
• Who wouldn’t want to sleep in the same hotel that Robert E. Lee and Theodore Roosevelt stayed in? The Mills House Hotel is a Charleston landmark.

Spring is the best time of year to visit Charleston as it can be sweltering in the summer. Autumn brings with it the lush autumn foliage, and winters are also mild.

Charleston International Airport is the hub for regional flights from Charlotte and Atlanta but offers some direct flights.

Delta and Southwest are the main airlines that service the airport, but American, United and US Airways also fly there.

Amtrak and Greyhound both make stops in North Charleston. If you are driving, you will come into town from highway I-26 or I-95. US-17 also runs along the coast. Check here for rental car prices and availability.

When it comes to getting around Charleston, your best form of transport is your own two feet.

Charleston is a city made for walking, with nearly everything you need within a 15-minute stroll.

CARTA buses offer a free route from King Street to the Aquarium, but the other buses can be difficult for visitors to navigate.

Your best bet to get around town is the pedicabs run by college students or by car. Just remember, there are lots of one way streets!

I love Charleston because it’s the perfect combination of new and old and it’s constantly evolving.

It’s a place where college students go to the beach between classes and where it’s not unusual to see men rocking seersucker pants.

Manners are still important but the city has as much culture and nightlife as you could find anywhere in the lowcountry.

I hope this guide helped you plan some things to do in Charleston and gave you some inspiration for your next trip.

More South Carolina And East Coast Tips

Need more inspiration for things to do in South Carolina and the East Coast? Then these other resources may be helpful…

• Things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids 
• East Coast USA road tripping highlights
• Finding serenity at Lake Lure and Chimney Rock State Park, NC
• Spectacular Florida vacation spots
• Essential Things to do Beaufort, SC

BIO: Caroline Eubanks is a writer and travel blogger from Atlanta, Georgia. After going to university in Charleston, she spent a year traveling around Australia. You can read more about her on her blog, Caroline in the City .

Do you have tips on what to do in Charleston? Please share in the comments.

Captain Cocktail Cruises

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Welcome aboard the Captain Cocktail. You bring the food and beverages ( NO GLASS ) we provide the coolers. We offer both private and public cruises in and around Charleston, SC. Private cruises available for groups up to 22 people for any type of event for any age. For our private charters we can arrange pickups from most public docks around Charleston or we have our own shuttle van so you never have to worry about driving. Our main dock is located in historic Shem Creek / Mt Pleasant, where all our public cruises depart from. Get the dance party ready! Bring your best playlist and DJ on our custom sound system. We have plenty of games to keep the party going. We have coolers full of ice to keep the beverages cold! We Have A Bathroom! …

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Downtown water main break repaired, part of Meeting St. remains closed

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Officials say crews have restored water to those impacted by a downtown water main break.

The water main break happened on Meeting Street at around 2:45 p.m. Monday. Meeting Street between Calhoun and George Streets is shut down.

Charleston Water System spokesperson Mike Saia says crews will be working in the area through 1 a.m.

As of 10:50 p.m., water has been restored to nearby customers.

As of Monday night, no boil water advisory had been issued.

The road will be shut down to morning traffic. Officials expect the road to reopen midday Tuesday after repairs and repaving.

Drivers are being asked to avoid the area.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

Copyright 2024 WCSC. All rights reserved.

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The Sandlapper Story

Sandlapper Tours, Inc. was founded by brothers and natives of Charleston, South Carolina, Captain Bryan Collins and Timothy H. Collins. Through their love of both Charleston and the outdoors, both Bryan and Timothy developed a deep affinity for the natural history and beauty embodied in Charleston’s coastal environment. With tours in Charleston, South Carolina being very much in demand, Bryan and Timothy realized there was a market for guided narrated water tours leaving from downtown Charleston, and thus, Sandlapper Tours was born. Today it is one of the main attractions of Charleston, South Carolina.

Our mission at Sandlapper Tours is to provide quality water tours in Charleston, South Carolina. We are committed to providing you with outstanding customer service as well as entertaining and educational Charleston harbor tours and private charters.

BOOK YOUR CHARLESTON BOAT TOUR

Space is limited on our Charleston Harbor tours, so book online today! Get ready for fun, history, and sights like you’ve never seen before. Join us to tour the Charleston Harbor. Booking is simple and easy, and you’re going to want to book a tour to ensure that you don’t miss out, especially if you’re only in the city for a limited amount of time.

For reservations  click here to book online For charters call 843-849-8687

Sandlapper Water Tours

Charleston Maritime Center 10 Wharfside St. Charleston, SC 29401

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Historical Charleston Boat Tour Sites

A tour with Captain Dan on the beautiful Low Country waterways will give you an extra spark in your Charleston vacation which will last well beyond your next great meal!  We have water tours for several of the sites listed below....but the real difference with us is that you can decide which Charleston area is most interesting for your group to see and experience.

Our Historical boat tour sites include:

USS Yorktown

USS Yorktown (CV/CVA/CVS-10) is one of 24 Essex-class aircraft carriers built during World War II for the United States Navy. She is named after the Battle of Yorktown of the American Revolutionary War, and is the fourth U.S. Navy ship to bear the name. Initially to have been named Bon Homme Richard, she was renamed Yorktown while under construction to commemorate USS Yorktown (CV-5), lost at the Battle of Midway in June 1942. Yorktown was commissioned in April 1943, and participated in several campaigns in the Pacific Theater of Operations, earning 11 battle stars and the Presidential Unit Citation.

Castle Pinckney

Located on Shutes Folly, a small island in the inner harbor of Charleston, South Carolina, Castle Pinckney is one of the least known and most tragically neglected 19th century coastal forts in the South.  The ruins are not open to the public, but can be viewed from the various tour boats that make their way through Charleston Harbor.

Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter is a Third System masonry sea fort located in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina. The fort is best known as the site upon which the shots initiating the American Civil War were fired, at the Battle of Fort Sumter.  In 1966, the site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Charleston Naval Yards

Charleston Naval Shipyard (formerly known as the Charleston Navy Yard) was a U.S. Navy ship building and repair facility located along the west bank of the Cooper River, in North Charleston, South Carolina and part of Naval Base Charleston. It began operations in 1901 as a drydock, and continued as a navy facility until 1996 when it was leased to Detyens Shipyards, Inc. during down-sizing.

Charleston Battery Park

One of the best spots  to get to know Charleston, South Carolina is Battery Park. This lovely spot on the waterfront features southern mansions, cannons, cannon balls, oak trees, palmettos, statues, a gazebo, and incredible views of Fort Sumter, Castle Pinckney, and the Sullivan Island Lighthouse.

Swamp Angel Battery

The Marsh Battery, also known as the “Swamp Angel,” was a Union battery constructed in 1863, strategically placed to fire shells directly into the city of Charleston. Armed with a 200-pound rifled and banded Parrott gun, the battery fired its first shot at 1:30 am on August 22, 1863. The large gun burst after its thirty-sixth shot.

Fort Moultrie

Fort Moultrie is the name of a series of citadels on Sullivan's Island, South Carolina, built to protect the city of Charleston, South Carolina. The first fort, built of palmetto logs, inspired the flag and nickname of South Carolina, "The Palmetto State". It is named for the commander in the Battle of Sullivan's Island, General William Moultrie.  Fort Moultrie is the only area of the National Park System where the entire 171-year history of American seacoast defense (1776–1947) can be traced.

Cumming's Point Battery

Cumming's Point was on Morris Island. There, P.G.T. Beaurgard ordered that a battery be built there to help reduce Fort Sumter. Accordingly, an iron-clad battery was placed there, twelve hundred yards from the weakest side of the Fort. In this location, the battery had a commanding view of the Sally Port and wharf, where supplies and reinforcements would arrive. 

Morris Island Lighthouse

Morris Island lighthouse stands all alone about 300 yards off shore from the island of Folly Beach. It can be viewed from the northeast end of Folly Island and from the bridge coming on to Folly Beach.

The Morris Island lighthouse is now completely surrounded by water but was once sitting on a good sized island with numerous buildings around it. The lighthouse was completed in 1876 and was the second lighthouse to be built on the island.

Isle of Palms

Isle of Palms is a city in Charleston County, South Carolina, United States.  Isle of Palms is a barrier island on the South Carolina coast. The town lies along a narrow strip of land, hugging the beach, separated from the mainland by the Intercoastal Waterway. It is an affluent community of both vacation home owners and year-round residents, with large beachfront homes, resorts, and local restaurants. Beach volleyball is popular in the summer, and the famed "Windjammer" restaurant features 1 court, hosting several tournaments throughout the year.

Sullivan's Island

Sullivan's Island is a town in Charleston County, South Carolina, United States, at the entrance to Charleston Harbor.  It is the site of a major battle of the American Revolution at Fort Sullivan (Now Fort Moultrie) on June 28, 1776. Sullivan's Island was the point of entry for approximately 40 percent of the enslaved Africans brought to British North America, and has been likened to Ellis Island.

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MSICU nurse's journey, work inspire her to give her best to patients and team

It can be said that medical-surgical intensive care unit (MSICU) nurse Brooke Hiers, R.N., BSN, is the epitome of the ideal nurse. Already in her 13th year as a nurse, she has demonstrated herself as a proven leader, patient advocate, tireless organizer and a spirited champion for her team.

So when she attended the May 5 MUSC Charleston Nursing Excellence Recognition Event and inaugural appreciation brunch with other nurse colleagues, she was both shocked and humbled to be selected as the 2024 Nurse of the Year (NOY) for the MUSC Charleston campus.

This event was an opportunity to gather MUSC Charleston’s nursing leaders, unit nurses and guests to celebrate nursing excellence as part of Nurses Week 2024.

The award was presented by Brenda Kendall-Bailey, DNP, R.N., MUSC Health Charleston’s chief nursing officer, who read Hiers’ nomination letter as she was recognized along with 10 other unit NOY honorees for outstanding nursing excellence.

“Brooke epitomizes the ideal nurse, demonstrating exceptional intelligence and proficiency across various aspects of our unit. Notorious for her advocacy on behalf of patients, she ensures their concerns receive immediate attention. With a proactive approach, she anticipates challenges based on clinical indicators and her extensive experience, exhibiting remarkable empathy and patience throughout. Brooke’s unwavering dedication to our unit and patients remains unmatched, earning her the admiration and gratitude of all who have the privilege of working alongside her,” said Kendall-Bailey.

It has been a worthwhile journey for the Lowcountry native. A 2011 nursing graduate from Charleston Southern University, Hiers was inspired to pursue a career in nursing after watching her mother and grandmother struggle to care for her grandfather, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease.

“I’ve always had a passion for serving others and helping people, but nursing is hard,” said Hiers. Upon graduation and a quick stint working for two years as a medical infirmary nurse at the Charleston County Detention Center, she started her career at MUSC in 2013 working as a medical-surgical nurse at the Digestive Disease Center, 6th floor of MUSC Ashley River Tower. It was her interactions and work with the ICU nurses that led her to transfer to the medical-surgical ICU in 2017, where she has since remained.

“I was amazed at these nurses and their skills, knowledge and confidence and wanted to be like them,” she said. MUSC’s MSICU is an 18-bed unit whose patient population is varied and can include short- to long-term pulmonary, specialty surgery and cardiology patients, according to Hiers.

Like many nurses in recent years, she’s experienced both the highs and lows of nursing. Working through COVID-19 was among the toughest, she recalled. A mom of two children, she remembered caring for pregnant women struggling with COVID and its outcomes during those early days, which included patient deaths. “There are patients I’ll never forget and how we cared for them,” she said.

Alternatively, in spring of 2021, Hiers was touched when she cared for a patient with COVID on ECMO, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, who was the first to receive a double lung transplant at MUSC.

“The MSICU is one of the hardest ICUs to work in, but it is also very rewarding to see patient success and miracles. It’s amazing to me to have some involvement in that. Our team perseveres from staff crises, supply shortages, long difficult shifts, patient deaths and, still, we give 100% to our patients and their loved ones. In the end, our patients rely on us, and we rely on each other to get through the day. It’s the teamwork and knowing that someone’s there to help when one is struggling – it’s a standard that sets us apart,” she said.

And upholding this standard is an impressive mark set by previous MSICU colleagues, which Hiers now follows. In the past six years, three of the MUSC NOY award winners have come from her unit – Maggie Dillehay, R.N. (2018), Luc Gagne, R.N. (2019), and Noah Rosenthal, R.N. (2022).

“This award is an honor for me. I’m both humbled and privileged to receive this and feel undeserving of this because I work alongside such incredible, talented and fiercely dedicated nurses that I feel are equally deserving of this recognition. I want them to be recognized, too, because all of us are in this together,” she said.

In addition to the NOY Award, the Nursing Excellence event featured guest speaker Gwendolyn Hargett, a retired executive project manager and Fortune 500 company coach who serves as a volunteer patient-family adviser on the MUSC Health Adult Ambulatory Patient and Family Advisory Committee. Hargett drew from her experiences in the corporate world as well as her personal journey as a patient navigating her care managing two chronic health challenges.

2024 MUSC Charleston Nurse of the Year unit award nominees:

• Allison Broomall, Nursing Professional Development specialist
• Audrey Figari, MICU
• Samantha Gannon, Outpatient Radiology
• Nicholas Henderson, Senior care unit-IOP
• Brooke Hiers, MSICU
• Emily Landrith, MH-7West
• Claudia Miller, Oncology nurse navigator, HCC
• Alexis Nation, 9W Neurosciences, Main Hospital
• Audrey Fallon, ART CVICU
• Danielle Westerman, ART Heart & Vascular Clinic

Other 2024 nursing awards presented:

• Dawn Taylor, CVICU, Clinical Practice Nurse Expert Award
• Josh Moran Jimenez, DNP, IOP – Certified Nurse of the Year 2024
• Hannah Knight, ART 3W – Rising Star Nurse of the Year
• Crystal Cronzier, ART 4E – Nursing Practice Excellence Award
• Molly McArdle, MICU – Novice Nurse Award
• Lauren Barlow, MICU – Experienced Nurse Award
• Mental Health ICCE/IOP/DPOD – Daisy Team of the Year 2024 Award
• Lynette Morris – HART Nurse Manager of the Year Award
• Kyle Page, Nursing Professional Development – HART Emerging Nurse Educator of the Year Award
• Virginia Walters, NICU – HART Emerging Nurse Leader Award
• Abigail Connolly, SJCH Acute Care Unit 8 – Rising Star Nurse of the Year
• Marina Snegova, Senior Care Unit/IOP – 2024 Rising Star Award
• Sarah Johnson, Ph.D., R.N., General Adult Program/IOP – 2024 Nursing Practice Excellence Award for IOP
• Judy Walling, Perioperative Services – Daisy Nurse Leader Award
• Faith Crews, Perioperative Services – Sharon Bringewatt Peri-op Nurse of the Year Award
• Anna Martin, Perioperative Services – 2024 Rising Star Nurse Award for Peri-op Division
• Faye Connor, Perioperative Services – 2024 Nursing Practice Excellence Award for Peri-op Division
• Lyndsay Ammerman – MUSC System Advanced Practice Nurse of the Year Award
• Patricia Miller, North Charleston Moh’s Surgery Suite, LPN of the Year Award
• Amandine Muller – 2024 Ambulatory Novice Nurse for 2024 Award
• Catherine Philips – Nurse’s Week 2024 Ambulatory Nursing Practice Excellence Award
• Jacquelyn Furlano – Nursing Professional Development Specialist of the Year for 2024
• Janice “Jae” Arda, Main ED – MUSC-Charleston nominee, 2024 Magnet Nurse of the Year

About the Author

Cindy Abole

Categories: Features