Pirate Tours in Charleston
With over 250 years of history, Charleston, SC is famous for its role in many events, including the Revolutionary and Civil Wars. Charleston also is majorly significant when it comes to the history of piracy, as the Holy City was a major hub during the Golden Age of Piracy.
A Brief History of Pirates in Charleston, SC
Shortly after the city’s founding, Charleston became the chief harbor in Carolina, a highly contested region by the major powers of the day. This attracted people from all walks of life, including merchants, smugglers, privateers and pirates.
Over the years, many pirates have left their mark on our city, including some of the most notorious who’ve ever set sail, such as:
- Blackbeard
- Stede Bonnet
- Anne Bonny
Even after the golden age of piracy ended in 1720, the legends and tales of the pirates of Charleston live on. There are several ways for you to learn more about this era during your stay. We’ve listed a few ways below.
Charleston Pirate Tours
- Address: 79 Cumberland st, Charleston, SC
- Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Duration: Varies
Since their founding in 2009, Charleston Pirate Tours has grown into one of the most popular walking tours in the area. Often dressed in costume and hoisting along live parrots during the tour, the award-winning guides are incredibly knowledgeable about the rich history of Charleston. They also go out of their way to help make learning about history exciting and fun.
This tour company offers a sizeable selection of daily tours, including:
- Charleston Pirate Tour
- Ghost Tours
- History Highlights Tour
- Children’s Treasure Hunt Tour
Charleston Pirate Tours also offers private and customized tours as well. You can learn more by visiting their website.
SandLapper Water Tours
- Address: 10 Wharfside St, Charleston, SC
- Hours: Mon 9 a.m. - 9 p.m., Tues - Sat 9 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sun 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.
- Pricing: Adults: $38, Children 12 and under: $28, Children 3 and under not allowed
- Duration: 2 hours
Focusing more on the superstitious side of pirate legend, the Charleston Ghost & Pirate Tour hosted by the reputable Sandlapper Water Tours is a fantastic way to learn more about the golden age of piracy.
The tour offers a “spine-chilling experience” as you sail to some of the most haunted city sites, some unable to be approached by foot. During your voyage, you’ll learn many ghost stories about local sites as well as tales of legendary pirates such as Calico Jack Rackem and Anne Bonny.
The boat itself has an on-board bar, comfortable seating, and weather flaps that can help on chilly and/or rainy nights.
Pirates of Charleston
- Address: 56 Ashley Drive
- Hours: Thurs - Tues 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., Closed Wednesday
- Pricing: Varies on tour
- Duration: ~ 1.5 hours
If you are looking for a family-friendly boat tour to learn more about pirate legend, you’re in luck. Pirates of Charleston offers multiple tours that are aimed to entertain and educate the entire family while sailing on the only custom pirate ship in Charleston, the Black Ghost.
The tours are focused on helping everyone have a great time while out on the water, which includes learning how to dress and talk like pirates. Both the Pirate Adventure Cruise and Pirate School Cruise are non-stop fun. While no food or drinks are served, guests are encouraged to bring their own food onboard.
Pirates of Charleston also offers private charters upon the Ashley river for any kind of group event.
Book Your Perfect Vacation in Charleston, SC
At Historic Charleston Bed and Breakfast, we offer access to a plethora of vacation rentals that allow you to relax in comfort while exploring the Holy City. See what we have to offer and book today!