Explore at your pace
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Guided tour
Transfers available
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Cruise out to Fort Sumter with a round-trip ferry ride from either Liberty Square or Patriots Point, with about 30 minutes of scenic harbor views each way.
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Your ticket includes admission to Fort Sumter, so once you arrive, you’re free to explore this pivotal Civil War site at your own pace.
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Enjoy narrated views of Charleston Harbor during the ride, adding context and stories before you even step onto the island.
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A National Park Service ranger will welcome you on arrival, offering helpful insights to kick off your self-guided visit.
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With transportation, entry, and expert context all bundled into one easy ticket, it’s a hassle-free way to experience one of Charleston’s most historic landmarks.
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Admission to Fort Sumter
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1-hour self-guided tour to explore Fort Sumter
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Access to the Fort Sumter Museum, Bookstore, and Souvenir Shop
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Experience the opening battle of the American Civil War with a National Park Ranger
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Round-trip ferry Transportation
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Food & beverages
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Gratuities
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- TimelineMapStart point
2 starting points available
1. Mt. Pleasant
2. Downtown Charleston
1. Fort Sumter National Monument
You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Step aboard a comfortable vessel and set out across Charleston Harbor toward historic Fort Sumter, the site where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired. With round-trip ferry transport included, this experience combines scenic waterfront views, fascinating storytelling, and time to explore one of America’s most significant landmarks at your own pace.
Getting started
Make your way to your selected departure point, either Liberty Square in downtown Charleston or Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. Check in at least 15 minutes before departure. After your ticket is validated, you’ll board the ferry and find a comfortable seat as the crew prepares to cast off.
As you cruise through the harbor, enjoy narrated commentary highlighting key sights along the shoreline before arriving at Fort Sumter, where a National Park Service ranger will welcome you ashore.
What to expect
A scenic harbor cruise
Relax on a roughly 30-minute ferry ride each way, taking in panoramic views of Charleston Harbor. Along the journey, you’ll hear engaging narration about the city’s maritime history and the events that led to the outbreak of the Civil War.
Time to explore Fort Sumter
Once docked, you’ll have time to wander the fort grounds independently. Explore the ruins, read interpretive displays, and step inside the museum to gain a deeper understanding of the fort’s role in American history.
Ranger-led welcome and insights
Upon arrival, a National Park Service ranger provides an introduction to the site, offering historical context and helpful tips to make the most of your visit.
Features
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Round-trip ferry transport: Convenient departures from two locations with scenic harbor views included.
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Admission included: Entry to Fort Sumter is part of your ticket, so there’s no need to arrange separate passes.
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Educational experience: Learn about the opening chapter of the Civil War through ranger insights and museum exhibits.
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Flexible exploration time: Enjoy a self-guided visit, browsing the museum, bookstore, and grounds at your own pace before returning to Charleston.
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What to bring
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Be sure to have your booking confirmation handy, along with a valid photo ID if it’s required at check-in.
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Since the tour runs rain or shine, it’s smart to dress for the weather and bring anything you might need to stay comfortable out on the water.
Whats not allowed
- Cash isn’t accepted at the ticket windows or on board the ferry. All major credit and debit cards are welcome, so plan to pay electronically.
Accessibility
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The tour is wheelchair accessible, and the ferries are equipped with an elevator/lift and accessible restrooms. The Liberty Square boarding ramp can accommodate both electric and manual wheelchairs and scooters, except during extreme tide conditions.
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Keep in mind there’s currently no elevator service at Fort Sumter itself. The museum, bookstore, restrooms, and top level of the fort can only be reached by climbing stairs.
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If needed, accessible restrooms are available on the ferry, which remains docked during your visit.
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Infants and small children are welcome and can ride in a stroller.
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Service animals are allowed.
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The experience is suitable for all physical fitness levels, but because this is a boat excursion affected by weather and tides, accessibility may vary depending on conditions.
Additional information
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Boarding starts 15 minutes before departure, so arriving a little early will help ensure a smooth check-in.
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Tours run rain or shine, and only the Captain can decide if weather conditions require a cancellation. That call is made at departure time or during the tour if necessary.
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Public transportation options are available nearby for easy access to the departure point, and all major credit and debit cards are accepted at the ticket windows and on board.
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- Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.
- Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the starting point.
- Please check your final voucher for the starting point details & specific instructions.
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