Tri-Combo: Charleston Harbor Tour & Carriage Ride & Boone Hall Plantation Tour

1 hour

Tri-Combo: Charleston Harbor Tour & Carriage Ride & Boone Hall Plantation Tour

Enjoy a unique experience combining three of Charleston's most respected and reliable tour companies, Charleston Harbor Tours, Old South Carriage Company and Boone Hall Plantation!

This combo package includes:

**1. A ticket for a Charleston Harbor Tour **
Aboard the classic, 80-foot Carolina Belle, cruise the scenic Charleston Harbor while hearing fascinating local stories and seeing more than 75 landmarks, some critical to our nation’s history, including:

  • Fort Sumter - Charleston's premiere historic attraction
  • Civil War Forts Moultrie and Johnson
  • USS Yorktown: the famous World War II “Fighting Lady”
  • St. Michael’s Church
  • Stately homes on the Battery
  • Cooper River Bridges, including the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
  • Dolphins and pelicans skimming the surface of the water

2. Admission to an Old South Carriage Company carriage ride
The one hour carriage tour of Charleston’s historic district areas is an interesting blend of history combined with the witticism and humor of the tour guides. The tour guides showcase the “old and the new” that is Charleston to our visitors!

3. Admission to Boone Hall Plantation
Boone Hall Plantation is touted as “America’s Most Photographed Plantation” and “a must see stop on any trip to Charleston.” Explore the mansion and surrounding property, including:

  • Historic brick slave cabins, a smoke house, and a cotton gin
  • A butterfly garden featuring antique roses, camellias, and other native South Carolina plants
  • Enjoy the setting in which many TV shows and movies, such as The Notebook, have been filmed

***The time you book is for your harbor tour only and you can book the other attractions at your convenience. This tour can be split over different days if you so choose. ***

What Is Not Included?

Transportation from Charleston Harbor Tours to Boone Hall Plantation is not provided Please ask about upgrading to our transportation included package with our sister company, Adventure Sightseeing 843-762-0088. We operate daily tours via bus to Boone Hall and you can upgrade your ticket to join this tour (based on availability).

Food and drinks are not included in the price of your ticket. However, there is a snack bar on the Carolina Belle, and at Boone Hall Plantation where so you can purchase assorted food and beverages, The Carolina Belle has a full bar and snack bar!

Meeting Location

Charleston Maritime Center, 10 Wharfside Street, Charleston, SC 29401

FAQs

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Advance purchase is highly recommended and tours often sell out in advance. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance.

What type of ticket should I buy if I'm bringing a very young child?

For children ages 4 to 11, you should purchase a reduced price Child ticket. Children ages 3 years and under may attend for free, but you’ll still need to enter the appropriate number of Wee One tickets labeled “Free” when purchasing. All guests, regardless of age, must have a ticket, so please make sure your entire party is accounted for in this way.

How does the Tri-Combo Tour work?

When you purchase your tickets for the Tri-Combo Tour, your space will be guaranteed on the Harbor Tour for the date and time for which you buy tickets and your purchase will also entitle you to: admission for a Old South Carriage Company carriage tour PLUS a ticket good for admission to Boone Hall Plantation. All of the exact locations will be provided upon purchase of your tickets. You will need to call Old South Carriage Company to set up your carriage reservation once your booking is complete.

Do I have to do all three tours on the same day?

No, there are no restrictions as to when you take the tour. We recommend that you take at least two days to do the three tours. You can do two tours one day and the other the next, leave several days in between or when you next return to Charleston. Or take the tours on three separate days. The Harbor Tour and the Carriage Tour are 15 minutes walking distance of each other in down town Charleston. Boone Hall Plantation is about 10 miles away, a 20 minute drive.

How far apart are the three meeting locations?

The Harbor Tour and the Carriage Tour are 15 minutes walking distance of each other in down town Charleston. Boone Hall Plantation is about 10 miles away, a 20 minute drive.

Can I do the Tri-Combo Tour if I do not have a car?

Our sister company, Adventure Sightseeing, offers a tour to Boone Hall that includes transportation for an additional charge. You must call Adventure Sightseeing directly at 843-762-0088 if you need to book a time that includes transportation.

What happens if it rains?

The Harbor Tours take place rain or shine, regardless of weather conditions. The Carolina Belle has a glassed-in, enclosed observatory and the upper deck is also partially covered, so you'll be able to get great views of the Harbor's famous sights in any weather. The Carriage Ride may not run in severe weather conditions, including extreme heat or rain. You will get contact information for Palmetto Carriage Works after purchasing tickets. If the tours are canceled for the day, you'll be able to attend on a different day, or keep your voucher and attend on a future date. All tickets are nonrefundable. The Plantation Tour also operates rain or shine. If the weather is completely unacceptable then a ticket for a different day may be requested. All tickets are nonrefundable.

Who operates each of the three components of the Tri-Combo Tour?

The three components are operated by different companies. The Harbor Tour is run by Charleston Harbor Tours, which is the oldest harbor tour company in Charleston, tracing its roots to 1908.
The Carriage Ride is operated by Old South Carriage Company who has been a leader of guided tours since 1983 in Charleston. Family owned and operated, dedicated to top notch animal care, state of the art carriages and knowledgeable tour guides delivering Southern Hospitality one tour at a time!
Boone Hall Plantation is one of America's oldest working plantations, having been established over 300 years ago. The McRae Family purchased the plantation in 1955 and it was Mrs. McRae who furnished the house with antiques and began giving tours. Tours now include plantation house tours, Slave Street history tour, explanation of the Gullah culture, Plantation Nature Tram Tour, Garden Tour and Butterfly Pavilion tour. (After purchase, you’ll receive the contact information for all three companies.)

Is Boone Hall Plantation handicapped and wheelchair accessible?

Wheelchair access is very limited due to the nature of the facilities and period architecture.

Is the Carriage portion of the Tri-Combo Tour handicapped accessible?

Yes. In the barn we have a ramp that raises you to the level of the carriage, from there it is just a small step over into the carriage. The barn is also equipped with handicap accessible restrooms.

Is the Harbor Tour portion of the Tri-Combo Tour handicapped and wheelchair accessible?

The Carolina Belle is Wheelchair friendly, we are able to accommodate guests with wheelchairs for the most part. Entrance to the boat is via a 30-foot ramp, which varies in steepness depending on the tide. If you're able to enter using the ramp, you'll be able to participate in the tour.

How do you normally board the vessel? Will we have to use the stairs?

Normally stairs are not required for boarding or disembarking from the Carolina Belle, we use a ramp to load passengers directly on to the upper deck, where the boat's restrooms are located. Stairs are required to get to the lower level which is enclosed and climate controlled. Please make sure you consult with our staff before boarding if having to use the staircase will pose problems for you.

Are gift certificates available for the trip?

Yes, gift certificates are available and they make perfect gifts for holidays, birthdays or any other occasion! To purchase a gift certificate please click on the "Gift Certificates: Purchase" link in the box above.

Can I book a private trip?

Yes! We can accommodate a variety of special requests. Please use the "Contact HarborTours" link to inquire further about special group rates.

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE HARBOR TOUR PORTION OF THE COMBO

Is the Harbor Tour portion of the Tri-Combo Package the same as the regular historic Charleston Harbor Tour?

Yes! The first part of your Combo Package is the popular Charleston Harbor Tour. This tour is identical to the Harbor Tour that you can also book as a stand alone tour.

What exactly do we see on the Harbor Tour?

Some of the sites you'll see and hear about on the Harbor Tour include: the white steeple of St. Michael’s Anglican Church which was saved from destruction during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars because it was painted black so as not to be an easy target; the stately homes along the Battery - a symbol of Southern elegance and perseverance; the three forts – Moultrie, Sumter, and Johnson that have played a significant role in our history from the Revolution through World War II; Patriot’s Point, the home of the Yorktown, the famous “Fighting Lady” of World War II; and Charleston’s landmark Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, a new state of the art span that accommodates the largest ships in the world. You can also catch a glimpse of dolphins skimming the surface as they feed or a pelican as he nose dives into the water in search of a tasty tidbit.

Is the Carolina Belle covered?

Yes, the Carolina Belle has two decks - A glassed-in “Main Salon”, which is climate controlled and an “Observation Deck”, each providing spectacular views of Charleston harbor. The Observation Deck is open, however, it does have some roof-covered space.

Is this viewing equally good on both levels of the vessel?

Yes, you will have a panoramic view from either level.

Can I buy food or drinks on board?

There is a snack bar aboard the Carolina Belle that has soda, bottled water, wine, beer, mixed cocktails, chips, hot dogs, burgers, candy bars, cookies, etc. The snack bar accepts cash or charge on board.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

No, we ask you not to bring any food or drinks on board. You will be able to purchase food and drinks at our snack bar.

Does the tour run year-round?

Yes, but the schedule may be limited in the off season (December - early February). Please check the calendar for the most up-to-date schedule information!

What should I wear?

Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Keep in mind that the temperature on the water is significantly cooler than on the land, so you may want to bring a sweater in the cooler months.

Are there any stops along the way?

No, there are no stops. We will be cruising for the entire tour.

Is the Harbor Boat Tour safe?

The Carolina Belle is a safe vessel with a normal operating crew of three or four depending on the number of passengers. She is certified for 300 hundred passengers to cruise the inland waterways, harbors and tributaries by the USCG and meets all the US Coast Guard safety requirements.

Will I get seasick?

The Carolina Belle is a steady 80-foot vessel with classic lines. The Charleston Harbor has a mild atmosphere and it is unlikely that you will feel much movement aboard the boat. If you often feel seasick, you may want to consider some light medication before beginning the trip. We cannot officially advise you to take any medication, however.

Is there any narration on the tour?

Yes, the Harbor Tour is fully narrated.

Do we see dolphins and other sea life or birdlife?

We often catch a glimpse of dolphins skimming the surface as they feed or a pelican as he nose dives into the water in search of a tasty tidbit.

Is parking available near the departure point?

Yes, there is a City Parking lot nearby, at the corner of Concord & Calhoun Streets that is a short walk to the dock. There are also metered street spaces available. We encourage the use of ride-share services such as Uber or Lyft, or taxi services, the popular bike Pedi-cabs in Charleston, or the DASH free downtown public transportation. Our dock is located close to many downtown hotels and the City Market area.

Is there a restroom on the boat?

Yes, the boat is equipped with a clean restroom.

Where does the Harbor Tour finish?

The tour finishes in the same place that it departs from, the Charleston Maritime Center, near Calhoun and Concord Streets.

Can I stow anything during the cruise?

We do have limited closet space for wheelchairs and strollers on board. If you have a backpack or other item, we ask that you keep it under your seat. We are not responsible for lost or missing items.

Is smoking allowed on board the Carolina Belle?

Smoking is not permitted. The City of Charleston has a smoking ban which includes all businesses. This does include electronic cigarettes.

Are dogs allowed on board?

No, Department of Health regulations prohibit animals on board with the exception of service animals.

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CARRIAGE RIDE PORTION OF THE COMBO

How do I reserve my spot for the Old South Carriage Company portion of the Tri-Combo?

Your Combo ticket provides you with admission on a Carriage Tour. After completing this reservation you will need to call our office at 843-722-1112 to confirm a carriage tour time. This can be taken on the same day or a different day.

When do the Old South Carriage tours run?

The historic daytime carriage tours run 9-5 Nov-March and 9-6 during daylight savings time. Nighttime haunted carriage tours are available until 10pm.

How long does the Old South Carriage Company tour last?

The ride lasts approximately one hour.

Where does the Old South Carriage Company tour leave from?

The carriage ride leaves from the barn at 14 Anson St. (one block north of the world famous open air market) in Historic Charleston. Transportation is not provided between the tours, so even if you attend on the same day, you'll need to get to Anson Street on your own.

What exact areas do you visit?

You will see the historic old market area, historical houses maintained in a timeless fashion, beautiful gardens, artistic wrought iron gates and decorative entrances to the many mansions. As the tour winds through the 25-30 block area you will see parts of the old walled city and some of the many churches that give Charleston its designation of the “Holy City.” Your tour guide will acquaint you with the history and architecture which makes Charleston one of the grandest cities in the United States. Most importantly you will gain a better understanding of the people that lived in Charleston over the past 300 years, walking the very streets that you are traveling.

Can I bring food or drinks aboard the carriage?

Yes, you can bring food and non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.

Are we alone on the carriage ride?

No, the carriage can hold up to 16 guests, so you will be sharing the carriage with the other tour participants.

Is the carriage ride narrated?

Yes, the carriage tour is fully narrated by a professional tour guide.

Where does the carriage ride finish?

The tour finishes in the same place that it departs from, the barn at 14 Anson St.

Is the carriage ride safe?

Yes, Old South Carriage Company has been Charleston's industry's leader in safe and fun carriage tours in Charleston for over 25 years.

Can I store anything on the carriage?

There is room to store small backpacks and bags under your seat. Otherwise you may leave larger items, such as strollers, at the barn (where the tour meets). Old South Carriage Company cannot be held responsible for lost or missing items.

Will we stop to use the restroom during the tour?

There is no scheduled bathroom stop during the tour. We will only stop in the event of an emergency, so please use the facilities beforehand. There two restrooms in the waiting area at Old South Carriage Company.

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PLANTATION PORTION OF THE COMBO

What does my voucher for admission to Boone Hall Plantation include?

Admission includes entry to the live theatrical presentation in the Gullah Theater, Plantation Tram Tour, Slave Street & History Tour, Plantation House tour, self guided Garden Tour and the Butterfly Pavilion ( in-season).

How do I reserve my spot for the Boone Hall Plantation portion of the Tri-Combo?

Your Tri- Combo ticket provides you with admission to the Plantation. Reservations are not required, but you will need to schedule tours on site at the hospitality office when you arrive.

What are the Plantation’s operating hours?

The Plantation is open all year round. From Labor Day (the first Monday in September) to March 31, the Plantation is open Monday-Saturday, from 9am-5pm, and on Sundays, from 1pm-4pm. From April 1 to Labor Day, the Plantation is open Monday-Saturday, 8:30am-6:30pm, and on Sundays, from 1pm-5pm. The Plantation is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

How much time should I allow to tour Boone Hall?

We suggest that you allow about 2-3 hours. However, it is a large property and to get the most benefit you may wish to spend more time.

Where is Boone Hall Plantation located?

Boone Hall is located on Long Point Road in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, about 8 miles from downtown Charleston. The Plantation is about 10 miles (20 minutes) from the Charleston Maritime Center, the meeting location for the Harbor Tour portion of the Tri-Combo package. Exact meeting location details will be provided after you purchase tickets.

What exactly do we do and see at the Plantation?

You will see multiple sites that will help you understand the day to day activities of those who lived on the plantation as well as the history of the people who lived at Boone Hall. You will have the option to join various Plantation tours that run throughout the day, or you can explore the property on your own.

What are some of the different tours that are available at the Plantation?

The Plantation House Tour, the Slave Street & History Tour, Plantation Nature Tram Tour and the self guided Garden Tour run multiple times per day.

What is the House Tour?

The House Tour is a 30 minute tour that begins on the front porch and continues through the main floor of the elegant Plantation Home that was built in 1936. It is given by a well informed guide in historical dress. This tour will introduce you to the history of Boone Hall Plantation and its evolution through several owners since 1681.

What is the Slave Street and History Tour?

This tour begins at the tip of Slave Street located out in the front of the Plantation Home and is a historical look at the living quarters, historic relics, and lifestyle of the slaves that lived here at Boone Hall.

What is the Garden Tour?

This self guided tour informs you about the many various plants, flowers, and trees that are currently growing in the beautiful gardens on the front lawn. One of the main features of the garden are antique roses that are over 100 years old.

What are the theatrical presentations at Boone Hall?

Boone Hall Plantation offers live presentations that cannot be found on any other plantations and are part of what helps make Boone Hall unique. These shows are seasonal.

What is the Plantation Tram Tour?

This 40 minute tour takes you across the historical grounds, nature trails and agricultural operations of the plantation.

How long do the individual tours last and at what times?

  • Plantation House tour - every 1/2 hour until 6pm, duration is approximately 30 minutes. * Slave Street history tour - every hour until 4:45pm, duration is 20 minutes. * Explaining the Gullah culture - 11:30 am, 1:30pm, and 3:30 pm duration is 45 minutes. Plantation coach tour - every 45 minutes until 4;45pm. duration is 45 minutes * Garden and butterfly pavilion - self guided- anytime during the day until 6 pm. These times may vary seasonally, so the admission gate will give you updated info upon arrival.*

Can I bring food and drinks to the Plantation?

Yes, you can also purchase snacks, salads, sandwiches and soft drinks at the cafe.

Can I store anything at the Plantation?

No there is no temporary storage lockers or area.

Are there restrooms at Boone Hall?

Yes, the bathrooms are well marked and at various locations.

Is parking available at Boone Hall?

Yes, there is free parking at the plantation.

Can I buy food or drinks at the Plantation?

Yes. Refreshments and a variety of foods are available for sale in the Butterfly Cafe on the property.

What should I wear to the Plantation?

Comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions are recommended.

Is there transportation available to Boone Hall from downtown Charleston?

Taxi transportation to Boone Hall is available FOR AN EXTRA CHARGE. Please click "Contact this seller" to inquire further.

Policies

Refund/Rescheduling Policy
Non-refundable, can be rescheduled with 24 hours notice. Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded. You may reschedule your tickets (subject to availability) only if you do so at least 24 hours in advance.

Weather Policy
Activity takes place rain or shine. The activity runs regardless of weather conditions. In the rare situation where the seller is forced to cancel the event, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule to another time (subject to availability).

Other Policies
Tobacco Free Event — Charleston Harbor Tours is proud to be a smoke free / tobacco free environment. Smoking is not permitted on our vessels.

About

Charleston Harbor Tours is the oldest continuously operating harbor tour company in Charleston, tracing its roots to 1908.

The company specializes in introducing its guests to the beauty and history of Charleston, the Holy City. Your captain and staff will be eager to make your experience aboard the Carolina Belle a pleasant and enjoyable one.

The Carolina Belle is Charleston Harbor Tours’ newest vessel. Featuring graceful, classic lines, the boat is 80 feet long. It can accommodate up to 300 passengers and has a standard operating crew of four.

About

Things to keep in mind