How Much Does a Party Boat Cost in Charleston?

Group size sets the boat, and the boat sets the price

The biggest price jump happens around six guests. Boats carrying six or fewer paying passengers can be run by a captain with a smaller license, and those trips are generally the most affordable. Groups larger than six need an inspected vessel, which costs more to run and insure. Very large groups need the biggest boats in the area, which carry the highest rates.

Trip length

Most charters have a minimum of two or three hours. Longer trips usually cost more in total, but many operators discount the hourly rate as trips get longer.

Date and time of day

Weekends from spring through early fall are peak season. Sunset slots are the most requested time of day. Weekday and off-season trips often have more flexibility.

Extras and fees

These are the items most often left out of the first number you see:

• Captain and crew gratuity
• Taxes and booking fees
• Fuel surcharges on longer runs
• Cleaning fees for parties
• Decorations, catering, bar service or a DJ
• Parking at the marina

A simple way to estimate your budget

Start with your group size and how many hours you want. In broad terms, small six-passenger charters for a few hours often fall in the several-hundred-dollar range, while large inspected vessels for big groups can reach the thousands. Add gratuity and extras, then divide by the number of people paying to see the per-person cost.

Treat that as a planning estimate only. The operator's written quote is the real price.

How we use your budget

When you share a budget range in your request, we use it to steer you toward boats that fit. If your budget and group size don't line up with what's available, we'll tell you honestly and suggest options, like a shorter trip or a weekday date.

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