Fort Sumter Tours

Fort Sumter .. the Island Fort where the Civil War began.

Fort Sumter Tours is an authorized National Park Service concessioner. We provide the only commercial boat transportation to Fort Sumter, the island fort where the Civil War began. The cruise yachts carrying you to Fort Sumter are U.S. Coast Guard inspected passenger vessels. They are clean, safe and equipped with snack bars and restrooms.

We have two convenient locations from which you can depart: Liberty Square in downtown Charleston, or in Mt. Pleasant at the Patriots Point Maritime Museum, the world’s largest naval and maritime museum

After boarding, you will experience a relaxing 30 minute cruise through Charleston’s historic harbor out to Fort Sumter. The tour is fully narrated and explains many points of interest and historic significance. You will learn about the major events which led to the outbreak of America’s most bloody war. At Fort Sumter National Park, historians will provide detailed information about Fort Sumter and its pivotal role in the War between the States. There is a museum with fascinating exhibits and a small gift shop for your enjoyment. After one hour at the Fort, you will cruise back to port, enjoying panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Charleston’s bustling harbor.

Departure times vary depending on tour or event.