Historic Colonial Charleston and the Scenic Ace Basin
As if suspended in time, visitors will discover Charleston’s rich history, alive today in the beautiful Church spires and 17th century mansions which adorn the harbor waterfront. Charleston’s numerous landmarks include Castle Pinkney (once a point of entry to the United States much like Ellis Island), Waterfront and Battery Parks, Patriot’s Point (including the USS Yorktown aircraft carrier, Fort Moultrie (which held off attacks during the civil war) and of course the ever famous Ft. Sumter (located in the middle of the Charleston Harbor).
While thousands of boaters come to Charleston, it is not until you sail south through the Ace Basin that you truly begin to appreciate the natural beauty and historical significance of the surrounding lowcountry. Here is a sample itinerary which includes ample time to travel at a relaxed pace and can be tailored to meet your specific charter requests aboard most any private charter vessel.
Day 1:
Arrive in Charleston, SC and board vessel at Patriot’s Point.
Day 2:
Sail greater Charleston Harbor. Optional lunch or dinner excursion for fresh local seafood at Shem Creek, and time for a carriage ride downtown.
Day 3:
Head South along the waterway and take in picturesque waterfront homes, sprawling colonial plantations and teaming wildlife estuaries en route to John’s Island, Kiawah Island, Seabrook Island and Bohicket Marina for the night.
Day 4:
View Bald Eagles, Dolphin and a veritable plethora of wildlife in the protected Ace Basin preserve on your way to the Beaufort, SC marina. Also known as “little Charleston” historic Beaufort riverfront is alive with local musicians, quaint local restaurants and shops, and a fabulous waterfront park if you wish to stretch your legs.
Day 5:
Option 1 – Sail north back to Bohicket.
Option 2 – Sail south to Hilton Head (known for it’s wonderful golf courses, tennis and the beautiful resorts and marinas of Harbortown).
Day 6:
Option 1: Continue north to Charleston Harbor.
Option 2: Continue south to overnight in Savannah, Georgia at River Street.
Day 7:
Option 1 – A final day in Charleston to do some more inshore sailing or spend time in the city for tour of historic homes, shopping at the market or perhaps a round of golf.
Option 2 – he perfect opportunity to take in Savannah’s lovely park squares located throughout the city, her antebellum homes and sites from the popular novel MIDNIGHT IN THE GARDEN OF GOOD AND EVIL.
Day 8:
Disembark and head home.