Best Boat Rentals Near Charleston, SC
Top Boat Rentals and Yacht Charters in Charleston, SC
$53+
Top boat rental reviews in Charleston, SC
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5/5 stars
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5/5 stars
New clean boat, Todd was great. We all had a great time.
Sepehr
Jul 2025 -
5/5 stars
It was a great day on the water, would rent again!
Rhiannon
Jul 2025 -
5/5 stars
Charles
Jul 2025 -
5/5 stars
Riley
Jul 2025 -
5/5 stars
Had the best time on Ryan's boat! I definitely would rent with him again.
Olivia
Jul 2025 -
5/5 stars
Robert
Jul 2025 -
5/5 stars
Garrison
Jul 2025 -
5/5 stars
Heather
Jul 2025 -
5/5 stars
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5/5 stars -
5/5 stars
Julie
Jul 2025
How to rent a boat in Charleston?
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Rent a Boat in Charleston
With more than 95,000 miles of coastline, there are a lot of great places to be a boater in the United States. Charleston, South Carolina, for example. One of the most beautiful cities in America, Charleston has plenty of beachfront on the Atlantic Ocean but is also divided by a number of large and small waterways snaking in and around the city’s many islands, including the Stono River, Ashley River, and Cooper River.
There is plenty of great saltwater and freshwater fishing, lots of places to explore by boat, and plenty of room for wakeboarding, or jetskiing, or whatever you love. With several cool winter months, Charleston can give visitors a four-season feeling, but when the sun is shining, it’s hard to imagine a better place to own a powerboat or sailboat.
What To Know
Charleston has a very big boating community represented by just about any kind of vessel you could want. Center consoles and dayboats have become very common on most waters, but while in Charleston you are also likely to see -
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Easy access to deep Atlantic waters make big sportfish, convertibles, and larger center consoles a common site offshore, but luxury yachts and mid-level cruisers are also plentiful.
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Lots of places to explore, fish, or swim inshore and upriver make pontoon boats, runabouts, deck boats, and bowriders popular, but you will also find lots of flats skiffs and center consoles inshore as well.
Safety Requirements:
All states have some sort of regulations for boaters and South Carolina is no different. According to the S.C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website -
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In South Carolina, boat operators under age 16 must complete a boating course approved by the SCDNR to operate a boat or personal watercraft with a 15 h.p. motor or greater, unless accompanied by an adult age 18 years or older.
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Any person under age 12 must wear a US Coast Guard approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD when on board a class “A” (less than 16 ft. long) boat.
Visit the S.C. DNR ERegulations website to learn more.
Where to dock your boat or meet your rental:
Charleston City Marina Dock
Charleston Harbor Marina
Seabreeze Marina
Shem Creek Boat Landing
Remleys Point Public Boat Landing
Weather Conditions
Charleston has long summers with lots of sun but the days can be hot and humid. Summer highs can hit the low 90s but usually stay closer to 85. Winter temperatures rarely get close to freezing, and Spring and Fall conditions are usually comfortable with lots of 60- and 70-degree days.
Late Spring and early Fall are great times to visit Charleston when temperatures are warm enough to enjoy the water but not hot enough to make air conditioning sound like a better option.
The Charleston area can see some rare hurricane activity late in the summer, so visitors should always be prepared for the possibility and have a plan just in case.
Avg. Temperature High: July is usually the hottest month with temps near 90°F
Avg. Temperature Low: January is the coolest month with temps close to 40°F
Avg. Water Temperatures in and around Charleston:
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79°F to 83°F in the Summer (June, July, August)
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63°F to 75°F in Spring (March, April, May)
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70°F to 80°F in Fall (September, October, November)
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63°F to 67°F in Winter (December, January, February)
Things to Do in Charleston by Boat
Go Fishing
With the Atlantic’s deep water just outside the harbor, the many rivers feeding into Charleston Harbor, and a wide variety of reefs, flats, and salt marshes, there is no shortage of fishing opportunities in this historic city. Near the coast, buoys, shipwrecks, and reefs hold fish like grouper, cobia, and redfish, while offshore trips can yield tasty mahi-mahi or spectacular sailfish. When the weather doesn’t align with your plans, stay in the rivers and harbor and catch redfish, speckled trout, and black drum.
Something is biting year-round so check with the local pros and fish reports for the best time to chase your favorite species. Although July through September are considered the best months to fish, there is no “off-season” in Charleston.
Inshore
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Target species: Cobia, Redfish, Snapper, Kingfish, Amberjack, Grouper, and King Mackerel
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Seasonality: May through September are usually the best months
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Boat selection: Flats skiffs, center consoles, aluminum fishing boats, pontoon boats
Near Shore
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Target species: Cobia, Redfish, Snapper, Kingfish, Amberjack, Grouper, and King Mackerel
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Seasonality: May through September are usually the best months
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Boat selection: Center consoles, runabouts, cruisers, pontoon boats
Offshore
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Target species: mahi-mahi, cobia, sailfish, sheepshead, king mackerel, amberjack, wahoo, tuna, grouper, and snapper
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Seasonality: May through September are usually the best months
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Boat selection: Sportfish, convertibles, big center consoles, cruisers
Visit Morris Island
Accessible only by boat, historic Morris Island sits just south of the entrance to Charleston Harbor. The 840-acre island was home to several strategic events during the American Civil War, along with nearby Fort Sumter.
Today, Morris Island features beautiful natural beaches with lots of shells, wildlife, and little else. There are no developments, facilities, or shops on the island, making it a remote getaway with few people around.
At the southeastern end of the island, 1600 feet from the shoreline, the beautiful and historic Morris Island lighthouse has been watching over the waters around Charleston since 1876. However, the light is off-limits to the public. The water eroding the lighthouse’s perch has made it impossible to get close on foot and dangerous to try. There are plenty of great viewing and photo spots on the main body of Morris Island.
With no conveniences, it’s important to remember to bring plenty of water, food, and sunscreen and stay hydrated in the summer sun.
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Location: Google Maps Link
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Closest boat ramp: Benke-Lowe Private Boat Landing, Folly River Boat Ramp
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Lat/Long: 32.71791° N, -79.88429° W
Cruise Shem Creek and the Mount Pleasant Waterfront
Located on the northwestern edge of Charleston Harbor inland, Shem Creek winds three miles from the Charleston Harbor and along the Mount Pleasant waterfront until civilization falls away and leaves nothing but wetlands and wildlife.
The creek winds behind beautiful private homes, the local shrimp fleet, and provides access to dine and dock at several restaurants. Stop for dinner or cruise further up the creek in smaller vessels.
Pull up to the dock at Shem Creek Park, walk the boardwalk, and be treated to beautiful views of Charleston Harbor and the natural wetlands. The town of Mount Pleasant is a short walk from the water, putting shops, eateries, and other attractions within easy reach of the docks.
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Location: Google Maps Link
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Closest boat ramp: Shem Creek Boat Landing, Remleys Point
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Lat/Long: 32.81973° N, -79.90558° W
Where to Go Boating in Charleston
Ashley River
With 22 miles of water out of 33 designated as a State Scenic River, the Ashely River winds 30 miles inland from CHarleston Harbor past a beautiful city view and into the Charleston Harbor watershed. Filled with natural beauty, the tidal river features a wide variety of natural habitats and 26 national and regional historic sites.
The river waters are great for fishing, swimming, and cruising, or exploring and sightseeing while winding past cypress swamps and salt marshes. There are also a variety of small eateries and shops to see or sample on the trip inland or back to the harbor.
Nearby Marinas: Charleston City Marina, Ripley Light Marina, RiversEdge Marina
Closest Boat Ramp: W. O. Thomas, Jr. Boat Landing, Pierpoint Boat Landing
Wake Zone: There are No Wake Zones marked near marinas, ramps, and other areas where the potential for damage or danger exists. Pay attention to shallow areas, charts, warning signs and buoys and, above all else, be courteous to other boaters, swimmers, and the area wildlife.
Lat/Long: 27.94272 N, -82.82411 W
Explore the Low Country
South of Charleston, there is a series of islands and waterways along the Atlantic coast known as the Low Country. Much of it unspoiled and natural, the 125-mile-long group of islands between Charleston and Savannah, GA is filled with wildlife and beauty with countless creeks and rivers to explore.
Swim, fish, or just cruise in and explore somewhere new, and also enjoy the gorgeous waterways and countless coves, marshes, and wetlands. The Low Country is a beautiful getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Nearby Marinas: St. Johns Yacht Harbor, Ripley Light Marina
Closest Boat Ramp: Wappoo Cut Boat Ramp, Riverland Terrace Public Boat Landing
Wake Zone: There are No Wake Zones marked near marinas, ramps, and other areas where the potential for damage or danger exists. Pay attention to shallow areas, charts, warning signs and buoys and, above all else, be courteous to other boaters, swimmers, and the area wildlife.
Tips: There are some waterfront spots to stop for refreshments or food, but it’s a good idea to take plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen along for your day on the water.
Lat/Long: 32.54621 N, -80.37046 W
Head out to the Atlantic Ocean
Cruise east out of Charleston Harbor and you are in the deep waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Following the coast offshore, there’s a good chance that a pod of dolphin will come play in your boat’s wake or follow along with you just for fun. South, cruise along the South Carolina Low Country and explore the rivers and creeks that lead inland or anchor up and spend some time on the beach at Morris Island or Kiawah Island. Fish, dive, or just drift in the sun for a perfect day on the ocean.
Remember - the summer sun can be brutal so bring lots of water, snacks, sunscreen, and some shade.
Nearby Marinas: Tolers Cove Marina, Cove Cay Marina, Charleston Harbor Marina
Closest Boat Ramp: Benke-Lowe Private Boat Landing, Remleys Point Public Boat Landing
Lat/Long: 32.74654 N, -79.86169 W
Dock-and-Dine at Charleston Waterfront Restaurants
The Charleston area has a variety of waterfront restaurants that are accessible by boat. However, Charleston also has plenty of terrific eateries that are a short walk from the dock, so be sure to visit them all while you are in town:
California Dreaming
- Address: 1 Ashley Point Dr, Charleston, SC 29407
- Hours: Mon-Thurs 4–9:00 pm, Fri 4-10:00 pm, Sat 12:00 am-10:00 pm, Sun 12:00 am-9:00 pm
- Reservations: Accepts reservations
- Type of food: Seafood, salad, traditional American
- Dockage available: Yes - docking fees may apply
Fleet Landing
- Address: 186 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401
- Hours: Seven days a week 11:00 am–10:00 pm with short breaks between mealtimes
- Reservations: Accepts reservations
- Type of food: Seafood, traditional American, Southern, vegan options
- Dockage available: Yes - docking fees may apply
Bowen's Island Restaurant
- Address: 1870 Bowens Island Rd, Charleston, SC 29412
- Hours: Open Tues-Sat 11:00 pm - 9:30 pm
- Reservations: Does not accept reservations
- Type of food: Seafood, vegetarian options
- Dockage available: Yes - docking fees may apply
Charleston Crab House
- Address: 41 S Market St, Charleston, SC 29401
- Hours: Mon-Sat 11:00 am-10:00 pm, Sun 12:00-10:00 pm
- Reservations: Accepts reservations
- Type of food: Seafood, Cajun/Creoles
- Dockage available: Yes - docking fees may apply
Check Out These Additional Charleston Boating Guides
Got questions?
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to rent a boat in Charleston SC?
The cost of renting a boat for the day on average ranges from $200 to $1200. The cost to rent a boat varies depending on the size of the boat and the length of time that you will be using the boat.
How many people can fit on the boat rental?
The number of people who can fit on boat rental largely depends on the boat's size and how many life jackets are on board. Currently the coast guard allows a maximum of 10-12 people on a Boatsetter boat rental.
Do I need a boating license to rent a boat?
Boating license requirements vary from state to state. As a renter, you are responsible for understanding local state requirements.
Can you snorkel in Charleston SC?
Snorkeling is a common activity in many of the Charleston South Carolina waters. Common snorkeling spots include Seabrook Island and the Isle of the Palms.
Does Charleston South Carolina have a Beach?
Charleston South Carolina has a few popular beaches in the area: Seabrook Island Beach, Edisto Beach,Isle of the Palms Beach, and many more.
What are the top destinations to explore with a Charleston boat rental?
With a Charleston boat rental, top destinations include Charleston Harbor for iconic views of Fort Sumter, the Ravenel Bridge, and the city’s historic waterfront. Shem Creek is a favorite for grabbing food or drinks after docking your boat, while Morris Island and its lighthouse offer a more secluded beach experience. The Intracoastal Waterway provides calm, scenic cruising, and barrier islands like Kiawah and Folly Island are perfect for anchoring and beachcombing. Charleston’s coastal charm and Lowcountry landscapes make it a top spot for relaxed exploration by boat.
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