The best way to experience Charleston is through its excellent private tours. For the most efficient overview, Charleston in a Nutshell Tours hits all the must-sees with passionate local guides who know their stuff. I love the morning sailing excursions – there’s nothing like seeing the city’s skyline from the water at dawn. The private carriage rides through the historic district are wonderfully atmospheric, clip-clopping past antebellum mansions while learning about the city’s complex past. For wildlife enthusiasts, the dolphin-watching cruises along the coast rarely disappoint. When time is limited, the driving tours efficiently cover Charleston’s highlights while avoiding the crowds.
Let’s explore my favorite Charleston private tours in detail.
Key Points
- Charleston in a Nutshell Private Tours offers a comprehensive 98% recommended experience showcasing local insights and key sights like Waterfront Park and The Battery.
- Private Sightseeing & Dolphin Watching Boat Tour provides an intimate 1.5-hour cruise with opportunities to spot dolphins at an affordable $42.40 price point.
- The Private Historic Horse & Carriage Tour of Charleston is highly rated at 4.8 stars, covering over 300 years of the city’s history and architecture.
- Charleston in a Nutshell Private Driving Tour is a comprehensive 3-hour tour led by a certified guide, covering historic neighborhoods and landmarks like Dock Street Theatre.
- Private Morning Sailing/Dolphin & History Tours on Mystique offer exclusive sailboat charters with scenic views, wildlife spotting, and amenities starting at $499 for up to 6 people.
Charleston in a Nutshell Private Tours
For visitors seeking an immersive and informative introduction to Charleston, the “Charleston in a Nutshell Private Tours” offer a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and captivating landmarks.
With a 98% traveler recommendation and 374 glowing reviews, these private tours provide a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides.
The tour includes top sights like Waterfront Park and the Battery, and guests can expect comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off.
Praised for their expertise and ability to showcase unique sites, the guides ensure travelers gain a local perspective and come away with a deep appreciation for Charleston’s culture and heritage.
At $185 per person, these tours are an excellent value for the comprehensive experience they provide.
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Charleston: Private Sightseeing & Dolphin Watching Boat Tour
Amid Charleston’s storied landmarks and serene harbor, the “Charleston: Private Sightseeing & Dolphin Watching Boat Tour” offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to experience the city’s natural beauty and marine life.
This 1.5-hour cruise showcases the harbor’s historic sites while providing a chance to spot playful dolphins. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars, the tour is priced at $42.40, making it an affordable and enjoyable way to explore Charleston from the water.
Whether you’re seeking a daytime or sunset excursion, this private boat tour provides an intimate and personalized experience that allows you to learn about the city’s natural splendor and rich maritime heritage.
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Private Historic Horse & Carriage Tour of Charleston
Although Charleston’s cobblestone streets and stately antebellum architecture evoke a bygone era, the Private Historic Horse & Carriage Tour of Charleston provides an immersive experience that brings the city’s vibrant past to life.
This 1-hour tour accommodates 1-4 passengers per carriage and is highly rated at 4.8 out of 93 reviews, with 96% of travelers recommending it. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour covers over 300 years of Charleston’s history, architecture, and Civil War significance.
Travelers praise the comfort, educational value, and engaging storytelling. However, some note issues with group size and guide communication.
The tour departs multiple times daily from the meeting point at 45 Pinckney St, with hotel pickup and drop-off not included.
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Charleston in a Nutshell Private Driving Tour
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Charleston’s storied past and vibrant present can embark on the Charleston in a Nutshell Private Driving Tour.
Priced at $385 for up to 7 participants, this 3-hour tour offers a rundown of the city’s key landmarks, history, and culture.
Led by certified guide Jeff Zimmerman, visitors will discover Charleston’s charming neighborhoods, from the historic Dock Street Theatre to the iconic Rainbow Row.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at downtown locations, and travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
With consistent 5-star reviews, this driving tour promises an informative and comfortable experience exploring Charleston’s best-preserved city.
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Private Daytime or Evening Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Historic Charleston
For those who wish to experience Charleston’s historic charm in a unique and leisurely manner, the Private Daytime or Evening Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour of Historic Charleston offers an enchanting option.
This small-group tour covers 25-30 blocks of the city’s historic downtown, showcasing landmarks like Rainbow Row, Charleston City Market, The Battery, and Waterfront Park.
Led by a professional driver/guide, the tour provides insights on the city’s architecture, history, and flora. With a maximum of 4 passengers, the experience offers personalized attention.
While the tour route is determined by a city lottery system, reviewers generally praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to appreciate Charleston’s beauty.
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The Best Private History Walking Tour in Charleston!
This Private History Walking Tour in Charleston offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the city’s captivating past.
Led by a licensed historian, the 2.5-hour excursion explores Charleston’s rich history, from its colonial architecture to the Civil War and southern culture.
For $599 per group of up to 15 participants, guests can expect an interactive experience, with the chance to ask questions and uncover lesser-known historical facts.
The tour includes iconic landmarks like the Waterfront Park and Pineapple Fountain, providing a rundown of Charleston’s significance.
With a convenient meeting location and the option to reserve and pay later, this private walking tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an in-depth historical exploration of the city.
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Private Morning Sailing/Dolphin & History Tours on Mystique
Those seeking a private and immersive Charleston experience can embark on the Private Morning Sailing/Dolphin & History Tours on the Mystique.
This exclusive sailboat charter departs from the downtown Harbor City Marina, offering scenic views of the Charleston coastline, including the iconic Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge and historic forts.
Guests have the opportunity to spot bottlenose dolphins while enjoying complimentary soft drinks, shade, and restrooms for comfort.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 72 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is ideal for families or friends looking for a personalized maritime adventure.
The tour price starts at $499 per group of up to 6 people, with gratuities included.
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The Sum Up
Charleston offers an array of private tours that showcase the city’s rich history and natural beauty. From private driving tours to horse-drawn carriage rides and sailing excursions, visitors can tailor their experience to their interests. These personalized tours provide an intimate and immersive way to explore the charming streets, historic landmarks, and stunning coastal scenery that make Charleston a popular destination.