Co-owner Poe Minton Offers Reasons That Sets Her Company Apart From the Others

Jeff Walker,  Business Profile

From North Myrtle Beach to Hilton Head Island, the palmetto state is a coastal community, and no where is that more evident than the lowcountry of South Carolina. Including the Ashley, Cooper, and Wando Rivers, as well as Lake Moultrie boat lovers in greater Charleston enjoy being out on the water, whether it's for sport or recreation.

Understandably with that same mindset, there are several charter boat companies in the lowcountry competing for taking people out in the harbor to enjoy a few hours on the open water. Depending on your interests, whether it's sailing, deep sea fishing or a three hour harbor dinner cruise, there is something for everyone when it comes to finding ways to enjoy Charleston offshore.

Without question, the preferred method for people to spend unforgettable moments on the water has become aboard private charters. Whether it's a family day to search for dolphins, a romantic couples sunset sailing, or an ever popular bachelorette cruise, hiring a seasoned sea captain to navigate your way around Charleston is the best way to bask in the overall experience. 

Although there are several companies you can choose from, Southern Wonder (Luxury) Yacht Charters with its Google Five Star rating easily ranks among the top choices. Owned and operated by the family team of Poe and Captain Mike Minton, and Poe's sons, Southern Wonder quite frankly put the 'luxury' in luxurious yacht charters.

The yachts name is a tribute to Poe’s father, Richard Wonder. Poe explains why the family decided to open their own charter business. "I've been an entrepreneur most of my life, owning multiple businesses, and I've always had a passion for the water, however my bigger passion is making clients happy and creating memories to last a lifetime."

She adds Southern Wonder provides the ideal middle ground experience. "Charleston is an ultimate vacation destination and has a huge boating community so it was a win-win to build a company that set us apart from others. I found the perfect niche between the 'booze cruise' experience and the mega yacht experience with private chefs. Affordable Luxury is the happy medium and it's exactly what Southern Wonder Yacht Charters offers."

Still what sets Southern Wonder apart from their competition. "There are so many things to mention, our captains and crew are incredible. We pride ourselves on providing an experience that exceeds our guests' expectations"

According to Poe, the reasons are numerous and specific. "We pay attention to the little details, offering cooling towels upon arrival during hot days, playing their favorite play list, offering photo props for the perfect photo ops. Whether we have two or 12 guests on board we go above and beyond to make them feel comfortable and proved amazing service."

Perhaps far from a billionaire's mega ship, Southern Wonder's signature yacht is crafted for comfort nonetheless. Their spacious three-level layout features two climate controlled deluxe staterooms, complete with full bathrooms adorned in teak finishes. The adjacent main salon is an elegant lounge, with Italian leather seating designed for total relaxation. 

The yachts sun deck with its oversized bean bags chairs is tailor-made for basking in the warmth of a sunny day, sipping on delicious cocktails while listening to you favorite tunes over their premium blue-tooth sound system. If necessary, when inclement weather arises, the aft deck provides a fully enclosed option, so the fun doesn't need to end.

The upper bridge with its open air seating allows for gentle sea breezes as you take in 360° panoramic views of the Holy City. If you care to venture in the water, maybe take a quick dip, you can relax on one of their two eight foot floating rafts.

While unforgettable experiences are provided, the only thing not included on Southern Wonder Yacht Charters is food and drink. That's not to say they are excluded, Southern Wonder just leaves that detail up to you.

Pack a picnic basket full of your favorite munchies, pick up a deli tray, or have a preferred restaurant prepare your favorite dishes or charcuterie plates. You can carry them on or have them delivered prior to departure. You can do the same with beverages. Beer, wine, bubbly, soft drinks. Whatever you fancy. It's your time on the water. The upside to bringing your own food and drink on is, you know what you like. Southern Wonder do provide coolers stocked with ice and bottled water.

Your adventure begins with the most sea worthy crew says Poe. "Captain Mike has been a USCG licensed captain for 35 years with 5 years of that time cruising Charleston Harbor and Intracoastal waterways. Captain Zan is a native of Charleston and has been with Southern Wonder for 3 seasons. Zan has a wealth of knowledge about the history of Charleston, he is the first to get the guests laughing with his witty sense of humor and Charleston historic stories. He grew up playing in the creeks on James Island and has a true passion for the yachting industry."

Poe adds the right-hands are equally knowledgeable when it comes to lowcountry surroundings. "First mate Austin and crew member Jackson are also born and raised in Charleston with extensive knowledge of local waterways, historical sites and can usually find them living their best lives fishing, surfing and cruising in the low country." 

More than just an owner, Poe has her own role whether she's on board or just assisting with guest reservations. "I love being the concierge, helping clients schedule the perfect cruise as well as assist with other details of their visit in the lowcountry. I offer help with catering options for their cruise as well as recommendations for restaurants, activities, tours and shopping during their visit."

Though each have their own roles, unquestionably they all have the same outlook. "Everyone on the crew is passionate about working on the water and making guests happy. This is not just a job for them but a career, working on the water will always be a part of their lives."

Customer satisfaction is their primary focus, and Poe is proud of their standing. "There are a lot of charter companies to choose from in Charleston, but when you read the 100's of five star reviews you will understand why Southern Wonder is not just a boat ride, it is an unforgettable experience that truly will last a lifetime."

Operating out of the Charleston City Marina at 33 Lockwood Drive, Southern Wonder accommodates up to 12 passengers, offering private, fully-crewed excursions for any occasion. Want to re-connect with the family, spend some quality time with friends, schedule a unique corporate outing, than Southern Wonder Yacht Charters provide the ideal setting.

How about this. Make it a moment she'll never forget. Consider taking your future bride to be on a romantic sunset cruise. Bring along some bubbly to pop after you've popped the question. Charleston is the number one destination for bachelorette parties, so she can share her 'I said yes' story with 11 of her BFFs as they spend several glorious hours on Charleston's majestic waterway. Talk about your full circle memories. 

No matter the occasion, birthday, anniversary, or retirement, spending time on the water cruising around Charleston is an experience like no other. From the Ravenel Bridge to the Wappoo Cut, from Fort Sumter to the Battery, from Shem Creek to Waterfront Park, and from the Sullivans Island Lighthouse to Patriot's Point, greater Charleston is beautiful, ripe with history and wildlife. There's no better way to take it all in than to see it from the harbor.

A quick recap. If you want to spend quality time on the water, cruising around the number one ranked city in America than Southern Wonder Yacht Charters is the answer. They carry a five star Google rating and aside from tipping your captain and crew (suggested), there's no hidden fees. They go out of their way to make your experience carefree and relaxing. You schedule the day, the time, the edibles, and they provide the experience. All at affordable elegance!

Your unforgettable experience awaits. For more on Southern Wonder Yacht Charters set sail online at https://southernwonderyachtcharters.com/