The short answer
A private sailing charter with Charleston Harbor Sailing costs $500 for a daytime sail and $550 for a sunset sail. That price is for the whole boat, not per person. Bring up to 6 guests and it works out to about $83 to $92 each.
Every charter is 2.5 hours on Esprit de Joy, our 35-foot Jeanneau sailboat, with a USCG licensed captain.
Price at a glance
| Charter | Departs | Length | Price per boat | Per person (6 guests) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Daytime Charter | Late morning or early afternoon (2027 times) | 2.5 hours | $500 | about $83 |
| Private Sunset Charter | About 2 hours before sunset (2027 times) | 2.5 hours | $550 | about $92 |
What’s included in the price
- A private 2.5-hour sail for up to 6 guests
- A USCG licensed captain
- Bottled water, koozies, souvenir cups and champagne flutes
- A small fridge on board for your drinks
- A Bluetooth sound system for your playlist
- A bathroom on board
- No corkage fee: bring your own beer, wine and spirits
What to budget beyond the charter
- Parking: day parking at the Courtyard by Marriott next to the marina is $15, paid at the front desk. The marina itself has no visitor parking. Parking and directions
- Drinks and snacks: BYOB, so you control the cost. Bring ice; we provide a cooler with bottled water.
- Catering (optional): Caviar & Bananas can deliver to the boat.
- Tip: 15 to 20% for the captain is customary if you enjoyed your sail.
Private charter vs. a shared boat tour
Shared harbor tours sell individual seats, so you sail with strangers on a set script. A private charter costs more up front, but split six ways it’s close to the price of a nice dinner out, and the whole boat is yours. You pick the time, the music and the drinks, and the captain can tailor the sail to your group, whether that’s a proposal, a birthday or just the best views in Charleston.
How to get the most for your money
- Fill the boat. The price is the same for 2 guests or 6, so bringing the full group lowers the cost per person.
- Pick your light. Daytime is $50 less, with blue skies and bright photos. Sunset gives golden-hour views of the Battery and the Ravenel Bridge. Not sure? Read Sunset Sail vs. Daytime Sail.
- Book direct. Booking on our website gives you instant confirmation and puts you in touch with us directly about your plans.
Weather and cancellations
Cancellations are only provided due to weather and are at the captain’s discretion. If the captain cancels for hazardous weather, we’ll reschedule you or provide a refund. No-shows are charged the full price.
FAQ
Is the price per person or per boat? Per boat. $500 for daytime or $550 for sunset covers up to 6 guests.
Can more than 6 people come? No. U.S. Coast Guard rules allow up to 6 guests, including children.
Do you charge a corkage fee? No. Bring your own beer, wine and spirits at no extra cost.
Should I tip the captain? A 15 to 20% tip is customary if you enjoyed your sail.
Ready to book?
The whole boat is yours. Check available dates or see the Private Sunset Charter and Private Daytime Charter.
