When you think of a pedal pub, you probably imagine a big, multi-person bicycle rolling down a busy street, packed with people pedaling together while sipping drinks and soaking in the city’s sights. These mobile bars have become a popular attraction in places like Nashville, Austin, and Savannah, where groups of friends and tourists can hop on for a fun, social drinking experience while touring the city.

But if you take a stroll through Charleston, you won’t find one of these street-based pedal pubs. Instead, we at Saltwater Cycle took a different approach: weput our pedal pub on the water.

Our floating BYOB party boat gives you the same fun, social atmosphere—minus the traffic and the city restrictions. In this blog, we’re diving into why traditional pedal pubs aren’t in Charleston, why we decided to bring the pedal party to the water, and why a pedal-powered boat cruise is the ultimate way to celebrate in the Holy City.

Why Aren’t There Traditional Pedal Pubs in Charleston?

Charleston is a city that knows how to have a good time. Between the vibrant nightlife on King Street, the rooftop bars with stunning views, and the historic streets full of charm, it seems like the perfect place for a traditional pedal pub. So, why don’t we have one? The answer comes down to laws, logistics, and lifestyle.

Open Container Laws and Alcohol Regulations

One of the biggest reasons why you won’t see a pedal pub rolling through Charleston’s historic streets is South Carolina’s strict open container laws. Unlike some cities where you can legally drink in certain public areas (like New Orleans or parts of Savannah), Charleston doesn’t allow open alcohol containers in public spaces. A pedal pub on wheels would technically fall into a gray area of these laws, and the city prefers to avoid the confusion. Rather than dealing with complicated legal loopholes or requiring a separate license, Charleston simply doesn’t allow these types of street-based mobile bars. Charleston’s Historic Streets Aren’t Built for Pedal Pubs

 Another big factor is Charleston’s narrow, cobblestone streets and heavy pedestrian traffic. Many of Charleston’s roads were built centuries ago, long before cars (or massive multi-person bicycles) were a thing. The thought of a big, slow-moving pedal pub rolling down King Street—while tourists take pictures, locals rush to work, and horse-drawn carriages make their way through—isn’t exactly ideal. Add in the fact that some streets are still made of bumpy cobblestone, and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.

The Charleston Experience is All About the Water

Charleston isn’t just a great city—it’s a waterfront paradise. While other cities may have street-based pedal pubs, Charleston’s best views, breezes, and experiences are on the water. From the stunning views of the Ravenel Bridge to the chance to see dolphins swimming nearby, it just made more sense to take the pedal pub experience off the streets and onto the harbor.

Charleston’s Alternative: A BYOB Pedal Pub on the Water Instead of navigating busy streets, Saltwater Cycle lets you take the party to the Charleston Harbor. Our custom-built cycle boat is a pedal-powered, BYOB experience where you and your crew can sip your favorite drinks, enjoy music, and take in stunning waterfront views—all while pedaling together. And don’t worry if you’d rather sit back and relax—we also have an engine on board to keep things moving, so you can pedal as much or as little as you like! Our floating pedal pub combines the best of both worlds—the fun, social, interactive nature of a traditional pedal bar with the added bonus of being out on the water. Instead of dodging cars and stopping at red lights, you’ll be cruising past beautiful landmarks, spotting marine life, and soaking in Charleston’s coastal beauty. Here’s why Saltwater Cycle’s pedal-powered party boat is the ultimate

Charleston experience:

No Traffic—Just Open Water

One of the biggest downsides of a traditional pedal pub is the hassle of traffic. Stopping at every red light, waiting for pedestrians, and navigating through busy streets can take away from the fun. On our cycle boat, you won’t have to worry about any of that.

Instead, you’ll be gliding through Charleston waterways, feeling the breeze, and enjoying uninterrupted fun with your friends. No stoplights. No honking cars. Just smooth sailing.

BYOB = Your Favorite Drinks at Your Own Pace

Another huge advantage of our floating pedal pub? You get to bring your own drinks. At bars and restaurants, you’re stuck paying marked-up prices for cocktails and beers. But on our boat, you can bring exactly what you want to drink at no extra cost. Whether you’re in the mood for a local craft beer, a bottle of bubbly, or a fine wine, the choice is yours. Since we provide a cooler and ice, your drinks will stay cold and refreshing the entire ride. No overpriced drinks, no waiting in long bar lines—just a good time with your favorite beverages.

Pedaling Is Optional

Yes, our boat has pedals—but don’t worry if you’re not in the mood for a workout. Our boat comes equipped with a motor to keep things moving, so you can pedal as much or as little as you like. If you want to get a little exercise while cruising? Go for it! If you’d rather sit back, sip your drink, and let the motor do the work? That’s totally fine too. It’s all about having fun at your own pace.

Charleston’s Most Scenic Views

Charleston’s streets are beautiful, but the best views are on the water. On aSaltwater Cycle tour, you’ll get to see:

- The iconic Ravenel Bridge stretching across the harbor

- Stunning waterfront mansions and sailboats gliding by

- And if you’re lucky... dolphins swimming alongside the boat!

Nothing beats the experience of watching the sunset over the water with a drink in hand.

Perfect for Any Celebration

Saltwater Cycle isn’t just a boat—it’s a party on the water. Whether you’re celebrating a:

• Bachelorette or bachelor party
• Birthday
• Company outing
• Family get-together
• Just because it’s a Saturday

Our cycle boat is the ultimate social experience. You can blast your own music, play drinking games, and create unforgettable memories with your crew.

How to Book Your Floating Pedal Pub Experience

Charleston might not have traditional pedal pubs, but we’ve got something even better. If you’re looking for an exciting, one-of-a-kind experience in the Holy City, hop aboard Saltwater Cycle and pedal, sip, and cruise your way through Charleston’s waterways.

Here’s how to book your pedal boat adventure:

1. Gather Your Crew – We can accommodate up to 16 people per boat, so bring your friends, coworkers, or family for an unforgettable ride.
2. Pick Your Date & Time – Choose from our available time slots. Sunset cruises are the most popular!
3. Bring Your Drinks & Snacks – Pack your favorite drinks and snacks to enjoy on board.
4. Show Up & Have Fun! – Arrive at the dock, hop on the boat, and let the good times roll.

Reserve Your Spot Now!!

Final Thoughts: Why Choose Saltwater Cycle?

Charleston may not have a traditional pedal pub on wheels, but our floating BYOB pedal pub offers something even better. With stunning waterfront views, a fun and social atmosphere, and the freedom to bring your own drinks, Saltwater Cycle is the ultimate way to experience Charleston. So if you’re ready to pedal, party, and cruise, book your Saltwater Cycle adventure today!