Our most popular sail · 2.5 hours
Private Sunset Charter
Sunsets are sunsets, right? Not in Charleston. Watch the sun go down over the peninsula from the deck of Esprit de Joy, with golden light on the water and the skyline glowing behind you.
Check sunset dates
A private sunset sail with Charleston Harbor Sailing is a 2.5-hour charter on Charleston Harbor for up to 6 guests aboard the sailboat Esprit de Joy, with a USCG-licensed captain who has run more than 700 charters, for $550 per boat. It departs about 2 hours before sunset, and BYOB is welcome.
- 2.5 hours
- Up to 6 guests
- BYOB welcome
“The BEST way to explore Charleston! We had such an incredible sailing charter with breathtaking views of the harbor and even got to see dolphins along the way.”
“Absolutely incredible. Captain Will made this one of the best experiences in Charleston!”
What you’ll see
- The Battery and the Charleston skyline
- Fort Sumter
- Castle Pinckney
- The Ravenel Bridge
- The USS Yorktown
- The sun setting over the peninsula
- Dolphins, if you’re lucky
How your sunset sail goes
- Step 1Meet at the marinaArrive 15 minutes early at The Harborage at Ashley Marina, 33 Lockwood Dr. Your captain meets you in the parking lot and walks you to the boat.
- Step 2Head into the harborWe motor down the Ashley River and raise the sails once we reach open water, wind permitting. Pour a drink and find your spot on deck.
- Step 3Sail the landmarksPass the Battery, Fort Sumter and Castle Pinckney, with the Ravenel Bridge and the USS Yorktown in view. The route follows the wind that evening.
- Step 4Watch the sunsetGolden hour over the peninsula, then a slow sail back to the marina as the skyline lights up.
Good to know
- We provide water, a cooler, koozies, souvenir cups and champagne flutes.
- We leave 5 minutes after departure time. Parking and directions
- Evenings on the water cool off quickly, so bring a light layer.
- Your confirmation shows the exact departure time (see the 2027 schedule).
- Want food? Catering can be delivered right to the boat.
- Cancellations are only for weather, at the captain’s discretion; we’ll reschedule you or refund. No-shows are charged in full.
Sunset sail questions
What time does the sunset sail leave?
We depart about 2 hours before sunset, so the time shifts with the seasons (see the 2027 schedule). Your booking confirmation shows the exact departure time.
How much is a private sunset sail in Charleston?
$550 for the whole boat, up to 6 guests. That works out to about $92 per person for a group of six. It is never shared with strangers.
Can we bring champagne and food?
Yes, it is BYOB. We provide water, a cooler, koozies, souvenir cups and plastic champagne flutes. Catering can be delivered to the boat.
What happens if the weather turns?
Your captain watches the forecast and contacts you the day of the sail if there is a concern. If we cancel for weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.
Is the sunset sail good for a proposal?
It is our most popular choice for proposals. Your captain helps with timing and is happy to take photos. See how to plan a sailboat proposal.
More answers on Plan Your Sail.
Prefer the daytime?
Private Daytime Charter
Departs late morning or early afternoon for blue skies and the best light for photos. $500 per boat.
See the daytime charter