Guide to Boating in Charleston: Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Sailing Experience

Whether you are a seasoned boater or a newcomer to the waters, safety should always be your top priority. With this in mind, we have put together a comprehensive guide to boating in Charleston that offers 25 tips for both new and experienced boaters.

Charleston offers year-round boating opportunities, but many first-time boaters plan to hit the water in the late winter and early spring. While boating can be a fun and relaxing activity, it can also be stressful and dangerous if you are not adequately prepared. Our guide is designed to help you navigate the waters of Charleston with confidence and safety in mind, whether you are a local or a visitor. We have organized our tips and tricks into five categories, covering everything from safety considerations and boat ramps to navigation and trip planning.

Safety Considerations for Boating in Charleston

Boating is an enjoyable and exciting activity, but it also comes with inherent risks. Whether you are an experienced boater or a novice, it is important to prioritize safety every time you go out on the water. Here are five important safety tips to help you stay safe while boating in Charleston.

1. Inspecting Your Boat

Before heading out on the water, it is important to inspect your boat to ensure that it is in good working condition. This includes checking the engine, fuel, electrical systems, and safety equipment. Inspecting your boat before you leave home or dry storage can help you avoid potential issues when you arrive at the boat ramp or marina. Use a comprehensive checklist like the one provided by boat-ed.com to make sure you cover all of the main safety concerns.

2. Life Jackets and Safety Equipment

South Carolina law requires all boats to have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable personal flotation device (PFD) for each person onboard. Additionally, boats that are at least 16 feet long must have a Type IV throwable flotation device. It is important to ensure that everyone onboard has a properly fitting life jacket, especially children who should wear PFDs suited to their size and weight. In addition to PFDs, it is recommended to have additional safety equipment onboard such as a functioning VHF radio, a charged cell phone, an emergency position-indicating radio beacon (EPIRB) or comparable device, a whistle, and a safety lanyard for the boat’s engine kill switch.

3. Take Responsibility for Your Own Safety

As the captain of your vessel, it is your responsibility to ensure the safety of yourself, your passengers, and your boat. This means that you should always boat within your limits and avoid taking unnecessary risks. Be aware of other boaters on the water and follow the rules of the water to avoid collisions. Don’t assume that other boaters will see you, and avoid distractions and impairment while at the helm. Always have a plan in case something goes wrong, including leaving a float plan with someone you trust, knowing how to call for help on your VHF radio, and knowing the public boat landings and marinas along your route in case you need to dock somewhere unexpectedly.

4. Avoiding Distractions, Impairment, and Other Risks at the Helm

Distractions, impairment, and other risks can quickly lead to dangerous situations on the water. As the captain, it is important to remain vigilant and focused on the task at hand. Avoid drinking alcohol while boating and avoid any other activities that could put yourself or others in harm’s way. Be aware of other boats and paddlers nearby and always maintain a safe distance.

5. Have a Plan In Case Something Goes Wrong

Even the most experienced boaters can encounter unexpected situations on the water. It is important to have a plan in case something goes wrong, including leaving a float plan with someone you trust and knowing how to call for help on your VHF radio. In addition, it is important to know the public boat landings and marinas along your route in case you need to dock somewhere unexpectedly during your journey.

By following these five important safety tips, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable boating experience in Charleston. Remember to prioritize safety every time you go out on the water, and always be prepared for the unexpected.

Boat Ramps and Fuel Docks in Charleston

If you’re planning a day trip on the water in Charleston, it’s important to know where you can launch your boat and where to go for fuel. Here are some tips to help you plan your day on the water.

6. Boat Ramps in and Around Charleston

Charleston has approximately 25 public boat ramps where you can launch a boat from a trailer. Most of these public boat landings are included in a map of put-ins from Awendaw all the way down to Beaufort. From these public boat ramps, you can get everywhere from the Ace Basin to Charleston’s historic plantation district and places like Capers Island and Morris Island.

7. Fuel Docks in the Charleston Area

While a full tank of gas should be plenty for a day on the water when boating in Charleston, it’s always a good idea to know where you can fuel up if necessary. Some of the fuel docks in the Charleston area include Charleston Harbor Marina, Isle of Palms Marina, and Safe Harbor Charleston City Marina. Fueling up at one of the marinas in Charleston, SC is typically more expensive than fueling up at a gas station, so make sure your boat’s gas tank is full before you hit the water.

8. Launching Your Boat

For first-time boaters, getting on the water can be stressful. If you’re not familiar with how to back up your trailer, it’s worth spending some time in an empty parking lot to get comfortable reversing. Once you get to the boat ramp, you’ll feel more confident in your ability to back down the ramp without getting in other boaters’ way. You can find several articles and boating tips videos with information on how to launch a boat at a boat ramp. A resource from BoatUS is a good place to start.

9. Getting Everyone (and Everything) On Board

Once you get your boat on the water, it’s time to get everyone (and everything) on board. To prevent other boaters from getting on the water, move your boat back or to the side once you’ve launched at the ramp. It’s important not to rush when boarding the boat. Many accidents happen when people are either trying to board a boat that is floating away from the dock or trying to board with a heavy object (like a cooler) in their hands. Set your fenders, tie cleat hitches to secure your boat to the dock, have passengers hand heavy items to you onboard, and then provide assistance as needed to boarding passengers before you untie and get on your way.

10. Getting Off of the Water

As important as it is to know how to get on the water, it’s equally important to know how to get off the water once your day of boating in Charleston is over. To unload your passengers and gear, follow the steps we just discussed in reverse order, and then make sure your boat is fully secured to your trailer before getting on the road.

Boating Destinations in Charleston

If you are looking for a great boating experience in Charleston, there are plenty of destinations to explore. You can choose to navigate the inland waterways or head to the uninhabited sea islands off the coast. Here are some of the best boating destinations in Charleston:

11. Inland Boating Destinations in Charleston

Charleston’s inland waterways are popular among novice and experienced boaters alike. With several inland boating destinations to choose from, you can anchor and spend time on the sand with few (if any) other people around. There are 12 popular destinations, and our guide provides a description of each of them along with a map you can use to chart your course.

12. Uninhabited Sea Islands on Charleston’s Coast

Charleston’s uninhabited islands are accessible only by boat, making them popular destinations for both novice and experienced boaters. Our guide to Charleston’s uninhabited sea islands provides a map to help you navigate to these islands.

13. Best Practices for Anchoring at the Beach

Anchoring at the beach can be stressful, especially for first-time boaters. However, there are some tips you can follow to make getting off of your boat at the beach as easy and stress-free as possible. Double anchoring is the best practice, as this will prevent your boat from getting pushed sideways onto the shore. Here are some additional tips to help you anchor at the beach:

• Put your boat into neutral to see which way the tide and wind are pushing you.
• Check the depth of the water.
• Double anchor.
• Go slow.
• Keep an eye on your boat.

14. Planning for the Tide

Planning for the tide is crucial when boating in Charleston. Riding the tide both ways is the most fuel-efficient option, so plan to either head inland until high tide or head toward the coast as low tide approaches. At low tide, certain spots around Charleston can get very low, even in the middle of expansive waterways. This means that you can bottom out if you aren’t careful. Always plan your entire route in advance based on the tides you’ll experience while you are on the water.

15. Knowing When to Change Your Plans

While it is important to have a specific destination in mind, it is also important to know when to change your plans. If conditions change or if you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation for any reason, you should err on the side of safety. If you’re boating inshore, you’ll most likely have cell service, so call or text the person who has your float plan and let them know that your plan has changed.

By following these best practices and exploring the many boating destinations in Charleston, you can have a safe and enjoyable boating experience.

Coastal and Inland Waterway Navigation in Charleston

If you are a novice boater, one of the most important things you need to know is how to avoid running aground. Charleston has several areas where the water can get very shallow quickly, but with some basic navigational knowledge and advance planning, you can avoid these areas. Here are some tips to help you navigate Charleston’s coastal and inland waterways.

16. Aids to Navigation (ATONs)

Charleston is not only a popular coastal boating destination but also home to one of the most important seaports on the East Coast, so it has aids to navigation (ATONs) in the harbor and on many of its inland waterways. You should know what these ATONs mean. As long as you stay in between the red and green ATONs, you will not be at risk for running aground. Follow the rule of “red, right, return” (red ATONs are on your right when you’re returning from the ocean), and you’ll always know if you are safely within the navigable channel.

Other ATONs to be aware of when boating in Charleston, SC include:

• White ATONs with circles. These are regulatory markers that restrict boaters’ operations (i.e., markers for No Wake Zones).
• White ATONs with diamonds. An empty diamond is a “danger diamond,” indicating that boaters should stay away. Diamonds with crosses through the middle indicate exclusion areas where boats aren’t allowed.
• Red and Green ATONS. ATONS that are both red and green are junction markers. The predominant color indicates the “preferred” channel (typically the deeper channel for sailboats and commercial vessels), while the other color indicates a secondary channel.
• Yellow ATONS. There are a couple of yellow ATONs in the Charleston Harbor. These ATONs signify a special feature or area, such as a commercial anchorage (as is the case with the yellow ATON in the middle of the harbor).

Buoys can (and do) move, and storms can take out daymarks affixed to posts buried in the pluff mud. So, while you can generally rely on the ATONS when boating in Charleston, SC, it is always important to pay attention to your depth finder and any signs of danger in your surroundings.

17. Intracoastal Waterway (ICW)

The “red, right, return” rule doesn’t apply to the ICW since it runs parallel to the coastline. Instead, green ATONs are always on the ocean side, and red ATONs are always on the inland side of the navigable channel. The ATONs on the ICW have yellow indicators—either a square (on green ATONs) or a triangle (on red ATONs). A handy boating tip is to remember that the triangles are like mountains—and are on the inland side—while the squares are flat like the ocean.

18. Sandbars and Underwater Hazards

You can encounter shallow waters in Charleston when you least expect it. While you will start being able to spot signs of shallow water the more time you spend on your boat, as a novice or first-time boater you’ll want to plan your route carefully and stay within the navigable channel (as marked by ATONs) if possible. There are a few areas around the Charleston harbor and on the ICW that have underwater pipelines and other hazards as well. These are marked with signs, and you should follow the instructions on these signs as you pass.

19. Navigating Bends in Creeks and Rivers

Taking bends in creeks and rivers too close on the inside can lead to running aground. Due to the natural flow of the water, the outside of these bends is almost always the deepest section. While it can be tempting to steer close to the inside of a bend in order to shorten your distance traveled, you should only do this if you are sure that the water on the inside of the bend is deep enough for your boat.

20. Don’t Just Rely on Your Depth Finder

Due to the fact that the depth can change quickly and you can encounter sandbars in the middle of Charleston’s rivers and creeks, boaters should not rely solely on their depth finders. Instead, boaters should review their depth charts before getting on the water, and they should stay in between the ATONs when possible.

Boating in Charleston: Trip Planning for a Day on the Water

When planning a day on the water in Charleston, it is important to take into account several factors that can affect your experience and safety. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip:

21. Check for Events on the Water

Before heading out to the Charleston harbor, it is important to check if there are any events scheduled for the day. Events can attract a lot of boaters, making it stressful for novice boaters and potentially dangerous if you are not comfortable dealing with wakes. Stay informed by checking the news and plan your trip accordingly.

22. Check the Weather

Checking the weather is crucial when planning a day on the water. Bad weather can not only make your trip unpleasant, but it can also be dangerous. Make sure to check the National Weather Service (NWS) for any Small Craft Advisories. If the NWS issues one of these advisories, it is best to reschedule for another day.

23. Check the Tides

Checking the tides is important for choosing a suitable boating destination for the day. Several tide apps are available that provide weather and swell forecasts. Make sure to plan your trip according to the tide forecast.

24. Check the Swell

The swell is another key environmental factor to check before heading out. For ideal boating conditions, you want the smallest swell height and the longest swell period possible. If the swell height is two feet or more, or if the swell period is about eight feet or less, you may be in for a choppy and potentially uncomfortable, if not dangerous, day on the water.

25. Keep Checking Throughout the Day

Weather and water conditions can change unexpectedly in Charleston’s coastal location. Therefore, it is important to keep an eye on the conditions throughout the day. If the forecast changes while you are out boating, make an informed decision about what to do and prioritize your safety and the safety of your passengers.

By following these tips, you can plan a safe and enjoyable day on the water in Charleston.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Can You Go By Water from Charleston?

Charleston offers a variety of boating destinations that can be reached by water. Some popular options include nearby islands such as Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, and Folly Beach. Other popular destinations include the Intracoastal Waterway, Bulls Bay, and the Wando River.

How Deep is the Water in the Charleston Harbor?

The depth of the water in the Charleston Harbor varies depending on location. The main shipping channel has a depth of around 45 feet, while other areas of the harbor can be as shallow as 10 feet. It is important to consult nautical charts and be aware of water depths when boating in the harbor.

What is There to See By Boat in Charleston?

Charleston’s waterways offer a unique perspective on the city’s history and beauty. By boat, you can see historic landmarks such as Fort Sumter, the Battery, and the Ravenel Bridge. You can also explore the area’s natural beauty by visiting nearby islands and marshes.

When Boating on Coastal Waters, Is It Important to Be Aware of the Tides?

Yes, it is important to be aware of the tides when boating on coastal waters. Tides can affect water depths and currents, which can impact navigation and safety. It is important to consult tide charts and plan your boating trip accordingly.

Is Boating in Charleston Harbor Safe?

Boating in Charleston Harbor can be safe as long as boaters follow safety guidelines and are aware of potential hazards. It is important to be aware of other boats, changing weather conditions, and shallow areas. Boaters should also have the proper safety equipment on board.

What are the Boating Safety Requirements in Charleston, South Carolina?

In Charleston, boaters are required to have a personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board, a sound-producing device, navigation lights, and a fire extinguisher. Boaters should also be aware of other safety guidelines such as speed limits and no-wake zones.

What are the Best Destinations for Boating Near Charleston?

Some of the best destinations for boating near Charleston include Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island, Folly Beach, and Bulls Bay. These areas offer a variety of natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

How Can You Navigate Charleston Harbor Safely?

To navigate Charleston Harbor safely, boaters should consult nautical charts, be aware of water depths and currents, and follow safety guidelines such as speed limits and no-wake zones. It is also important to be aware of other boats and changing weather conditions.

What are the Costs Associated with Chartering a Boat in Charleston?

The cost of chartering a boat in Charleston varies depending on the type of boat and the duration of the charter. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars for a half-day charter to several thousand dollars for a week-long charter.

What is the Recommended Duration for a Boating Trip to Charleston’s Nearby Islands?

The recommended duration for a boating trip to Charleston’s nearby islands depends on the destination and the activities planned. For a day trip, destinations such as Folly Beach or Kiawah Island can be easily reached and explored. For a longer trip, a week-long charter can allow for more time to explore multiple destinations.

What are the Water Depths to Consider When Boating in the Port of Charleston?

When boating in the Port of Charleston, it is important to be aware of the varying water depths. The main shipping channel has a depth of around 45 feet, while other areas of the harbor can be as shallow as 10 feet. Boaters should consult nautical charts and be aware of water depths to ensure safe navigation.