BOAT TOURS & CHARTERS

From a working waterfront to the wild beyond.

Departing from our dock on Shem Creek, our boat tours and charters take you through salt marsh, into Charleston Harbor, and out to barrier islands like Morris Island and Crab Bank. Along the way, spot dolphins, seabirds, and historic landmarks with a naturalist guide who brings the Lowcountry to life. These trips are perfect for families, couples, and curious travelers who want to experience the beauty—and the stories—of Charleston by water.

See a tour you like but the dates don’t work? Let us know and we’ll do our best to make it happen!

BOAT TOURS & CHARTERS

From a working waterfront to the wild beyond.

St. Helena Island, Fripp Island, Hunting Island State Park, Birthday parties; dolphins; Sunrise; Golden Hour; Coastal Expeditions

Sunset Dolphin Cruise

Dolphins at Golden Hour
Set sail from Shem Creek as the day winds down and dolphins surface under a sky painted in gold. Glide through marsh and harbor, spotting wildlife and soaking in Charleston’s skyline—all while the sun dips below the tide.

1.5 hours | $20-40

Exploring Morris Island in Charleston Harbor with Coastal Expeditions

Morris Island Beach Drop

Hidden treasures on Morris Island.
Departing from Shem Creek, this 4-hour boat beach-drop takes you across the marsh and harbor to a wild barrier island known for its fossil-rich sands. Hunt for shark teeth and shells under the guidance of a Coastal Expeditions naturalist, with dolphin sightings and Charleston skyline views along the way.

4 Hours | $40-65

Offered from March 16 to October 15.
Private charters are available.

Pelican colony, Pelican tour, baby pelicans, baby birds, Coastal Expeditions, Charleston Harbor, boat tour

Baby Pelican Cruise

Peek behind the pelican curtain.
Join our Baby Pelican Cruise from Shem Creek to Castle Pinckney and Crab Bank Seabird Sanctuary where you’ll quietly observe fluffy pelican chicks and other seabirds as they fledge the nest. Led by expert naturalists and operating under ethical guidelines from SCDNR, we ensure respectful viewing at every turn. A heartwarming, conservation-minded adventure for all ages.

2.5 hours | $65-85
Seasonal and by private charter

Boat, Bird Boat, Coastal Expeditions Fleet

Book a Private Charter

Looking for something more personal or want o go on a certain date? Book a private boat charter for your family or small group and explore the Lowcountry your way. Choose one of our tours—like a sunset cruise or beach drop—or build a custom itinerary with help from our team.

Our custom-built boats are safe, comfortable, and captained by local pros who know these waters inside and out. Add a naturalist guide, and you’ve got more than a boat ride—you’ve got a story-filled adventure.