The Charleston Bachelorette Party Boat Guide

When to book

Spring and early fall Saturdays are the most requested dates of the year. If your weekend falls between March and June or in September and October, start reaching out one to three months ahead. Fridays and Sundays are often easier to book and can be a smart move if your group arrives early or leaves late.

Where the boat fits in the weekend

Most groups put the boat on Saturday, late morning or early afternoon. That timing avoids the worst of the summer afternoon storms, gets the group photos done while everyone looks fresh, and leaves the evening for dinner downtown.

• Friday: arrive, casual dinner, early night
• Saturday: brunch, boat from about 11am to 2pm, rest, dinner and nightlife
• Sunday: brunch and travel home

Splitting the cost

Private charters are priced for the whole boat, so the math is simple: take the quote, add gratuity and any extras, and divide by the number of guests who are paying. For example, if a charter and gratuity together come to $1,400 and twelve guests are splitting it, that's about $117 each. Many groups cover the bride's share.

Collect money before the deposit is due. It's much easier than chasing it after the trip.

Outfits and themes

Matching swimsuits, white for the bride and coordinated cover ups are popular. Practical notes: wear flat, non-marking shoes, bring a hair tie for the wind, and apply spray sunscreen before you dress so it doesn't stain white fabric.

What to bring

Pack a cooler with canned drinks and more water than you expect to need, plus snacks or a boxed lunch. Bring towels, a waterproof phone pouch and decorations the operator has approved. Skip glass, confetti and glitter.

Weather backup plan

Charleston summers bring pop-up thunderstorms. Ask the operator how weather cancellations work, and have a loose backup plan, like shifting the boat to Sunday morning if your schedule allows.

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