The short answer
Book the sunset sail for golden light, cooler evenings and celebrations. Book the daytime sail for bright photos, sunshine and a lower price. Both are private, 2.5 hours long and fit up to 6 guests on Esprit de Joy.
Side by side
| Daytime Sail | Sunset Sail | |
|---|---|---|
| Departs | Late morning or early afternoon (2027 times) | About 2 hours before sunset (2027 times) |
| Price per boat | $500 | $550 |
| Light | Bright and blue | Warm and golden |
| Best for | Photos, families, sunshine | Proposals, anniversaries, date nights |
| Bring | Sunscreen and a hat | A light layer for the evening |
Why book the daytime sail
There’s an unspoken rule in Charleston: if it’s a beautiful sunny day, take off work and get on the water. Our late-morning and early-afternoon departures give you the best light for photos.
Daytime is a great pick for families, visiting friends and anyone who wants crisp, colorful pictures of the Battery, Fort Sumter and the Ravenel Bridge. It’s also $50 less than sunset. See the Private Daytime Charter.
Why book the sunset sail
Sunsets are sunsets, right? Not in Charleston. Watching the sun go down over the peninsula from the harbor is the view people remember. The sunset sail is our most popular charter for a reason.
Because sunset moves through the year, the departure time changes every few months. We leave about 2 hours before sunset, and your confirmation shows the exact time. It’s the go-to sail for proposals, anniversaries and birthdays.
What’s the same on both
- Private, for up to 6 guests
- 2.5 hours with a USCG licensed captain
- BYOB welcome
- Water, koozies, souvenir cups and champagne flutes provided
- Bluetooth sound system and a bathroom on board
- Meet at The Harborage at Ashley Marina, 33 Lockwood Dr (parking and directions)
Still can’t decide?
Ask what the day is for. Celebrating something? Go with sunset. Want sunshine and the best value? Go daytime. Either way, you’ll see Charleston from the best seat in the city.
FAQ
What time does the sunset sail leave? About 2 hours before sunset. The time changes with the season, and your confirmation shows the exact time.
Will we see dolphins? Dolphins live in Charleston Harbor year-round, and guests spot them on both daytime and sunset sails. We can’t promise a sighting, but it happens often.
Does it get cold on the sunset sail? It’s cooler and breezier on the water than on land, especially in the evening. Bring a light layer.
What if it rains? Afternoon showers usually pass quickly, so we don’t cancel for a chance of storms. If the captain cancels for high winds, heavy rain or lightning, we’ll reschedule you or provide a refund.
