Wildlife on the water
Bottlenose dolphins are often seen in Charleston Harbor and the surrounding creeks, and pelicans and other shorebirds are everywhere. Sightings are never guaranteed, and responsible captains keep a respectful distance from wildlife.
Planning around kids
The best family trips work around naps, heat and attention spans. Morning departures are cooler and calmer. Ask about shade, a bathroom on board, and life jackets sized for your children, and bring more water and snacks than you think you need.
Beach and sandbar stops
Depending on the departure point and tide, some captains can stop at a sandbar or a quiet beach, such as the Morris Island shoreline from Folly or Capers Island from Isle of Palms. Stops are always at the captain's discretion based on conditions.
What affects the price
Each operator sets its own rates. These are the factors that usually make the biggest difference for this kind of trip:
- A private boat is priced for the whole group, which often works out well for families.
- Beach or island stops can add time to the trip.
- Summer weekends are the busiest time for family charters.
- Ask about any fees for extra passengers or longer stops.
What to bring
- Plenty of water and kid-friendly snacks
- Reef-safe sunscreen, hats and sunglasses
- Water shoes for beach stops
- Towels and a dry change of clothes
- Motion sickness medication for anyone who needs it
- A small bag for trash