Tri-Combo Tour: Harbor/ Carriage/ Plantation Tour

What Is Not Included?

Meeting Location

---------QUESTIONS ABOUT THE COMBO OF THESE THREE TOURS---------

Do I have to purchase tickets in advance?

Advance purchase is highly recommended and tours often sell out in advance. To maximize your chances of getting the day and time you prefer, please book well in advance. Tickets can only be purchased with a Visa, Mastercard or American Express.

What type of ticket should I buy if I'm bringing a very young child?

For children ages 4 to 11, you should purchase a reduced price Child ticket. Children ages 3 years and under may attend for free, but you’ll still need to enter the appropriate number of Wee One tickets labeled “Free” when purchasing. All guests, regardless of age, must have a ticket, so please make sure your entire party is accounted for in this way.

How does the Tri-Combo Tour work?

When you purchase your tickets for the Tri-Combo Tour, your space will be guaranteed on the Harbor Tour for the date and time for which you buy tickets and your purchase will also entitle you to: admission for a Palmetto Carriage Works carriage tour and a ticket good for admission to Boone Hall Plantation. You'll need to pick up a voucher before you attend the Plantation, but you can do that either when you attend your Harbor Tour or with a quick stop at the Harbor Tours office or the Maritime Center any day of the week, regardless of when you go on the Harbor Tour. Both the Harbor Tours office and the Maritime Center are in downtown Charleston. All of the exact locations will be provided upon purchase of your tickets. If you plan to go on the Carriage Tour first, then you may check in with your E-ticket or ticket code when you arrive at the Palmetto Carriage Works Big Red Barn. You may attend the carriage tour or Plantation any day you want, subject to availability.

Where is the best place to get my Carriage Tour and Plantation Tour admission voucher if I plan to do either of these tours BEFORE my Harbor Tour?

If you plan to go to take the carriage tour first, then you may check in with your E-ticket or ticket code when you arrive at the Palmetto Carriage Works Big Red Barn. If you plan to go to the Plantation first (on the same day or any day prior to your Harbor Tour), then you should plan to pick up your voucher either at the Harbor Tours ticket booth at the Charleston Maritime Center. The Maritime Center is located on Wharfside Street (exact location details will be on your e-ticket) and is open from 10am-3:30pm every day.

Where is the best place to get my Carriage Tour and Plantation vouchers if I plan to do those tours AFTER my Harbor Tour?

If you plan to go on the Carriage Tour and visit the plantation after your Harbor Tour (on the same day or any day thereafter), then you can just pick up your voucher at the same time that you check in for your Harbor Tour at the Maritime Center.

What is the difference between the Tri-Combo and the regular Harbor Tours?

The Tri- Combo Tour includes a ticket for the Charleston Harbor Tour, AND also entitles you to admission for a Palmetto Carriage Works carriage tour, and admission to Boone Hall Plantation. All for one reduced package price. This represents a 10% savings over purchasing the tickets individually. After you purchase your tri- combo tickets, you will be guaranteed on the Harbor Tour for the date and time for which you bought tickets. You will also be able to take the Carriage Tour at any time. Upon arriving at Palmetto Carriage Works Big Red Barn, guests are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis. You will also be able to attend the Plantation at any time, subject to availability. Upon arriving at Boone Hall Plantation, guests are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Do I have to do all three tours on the same day?

No, there are no restrictions as to when you take the tour. We recommend that you take at least two days to do the three tours. You can do two tours one day and the other the next, leave several days in between or when you next return to Charleston. Or take the tours on three separate days. The Harbor Tour and the Carriage Tour are 15 minutes walking distance of each other in down town Charleston. Boone Hall Plantation is about 10 miles away, a 20 minute drive.

How far apart are the three meeting locations?

The Harbor Tour and the Carriage Tour are 15 minutes walking distance of each other in down town Charleston. Boone Hall Plantation is about 10 miles away, a 20 minute drive.

Can I do the Tri-Combo Tour if I do not have a car?

Transportation by taxi to Boone Hall Plantation is available FOR AN EXTRA CHARGE. We can help you with the arrangements when you pick up your voucher at the Harbor Tour office, or the Charleston Maritime Center. Please click “Contact HarborTours” to inquire further. The Harbor Tour and Carriage Tour are within walking distance of each other in downtown Charleston.

What happens if it rains?

The Harbor Tours take place rain or shine, regardless of weather conditions. The Carolina Belle has a glassed-in, enclosed observatory and the upper deck is also partially covered, so you'll be able to get great views of the Harbor's famous sights in any weather. The Carriage Ride may not run in severe weather conditions, including extreme heat or rain. You will get contact information for Palmetto Carriage Works after purchasing tickets. If you think the weather might prevent the tours from going out, you can contact the Palmetto Carriage Works on the day you would like to attend. If the tours are canceled for the day, you'll be able to attend on a different day, or keep your voucher and attend on a future date. All tickets are nonrefundable. The Plantation Tour also operates rain or shine. If the weather is completely unacceptable then a ticket for a different day may be requested. All tickets are nonrefundable.

Who operates each of the three components of the Tri-Combo Tour?

The three components are operated by different companies. The Harbor Tour is run by Charleston Harbor Tours, which is the oldest harbor tour company in Charleston, tracing its roots to 1908. The Carriage Ride is operated by Palmetto Carriage Works, the oldest carriage company in Charleston. Boone Hall Plantation is one of America's oldest working plantations, having been established over 300 years ago. The McRae Family purchased the plantation in 1955 and it was Mrs. McRae who furnished the house with antiques and began giving tours. Tours now include plantation house tours, Slave Street history tour, explanation of the Gullah culture, Plantation Nature Tram Tour, Garden Tour and Butterfly Pavilion tour. (After purchase, you’ll receive the contact information for all three companies.)

Is Boone Hall Plantation handicapped and wheelchair accessible?

Wheelchair access is very limited due to the nature of the facilities and period architecture.

Is the Carriage portion of the Tri-Combo Tour handicapped accessible?

Yes. In the Big Red Barn we have a ramp that raises you to the level of the carriage, from there it is just a small step over into the carriage. The barn is also equipped with handicap accessible restrooms.

Is the Harbor Tour portion of the Tri-Combo Tour handicapped and wheelchair accessible?

The Carolina Belle is Wheelchair friendly, we are able to accommodate guests with wheelchairs for the most part. Entrance to the boat is via a 30-foot ramp, which varies in steepness depending on the tide. If you're able to enter using the ramp, you'll be able to participate in the tour.

How do you normally board the vessel? Will we have to use the stairs?

Normally stairs are not required for boarding or disembarking from the Carolina Belle, we use a ramp to load passengers directly on to the upper deck, where the boat's restrooms are located. Stairs are required to get to the lower level which is enclosed and climate controlled. Please make sure you consult with our staff before boarding if having to use the staircase will pose problems for you.

Are gift certificates available for the trip?

Yes, gift certificates are available and they make perfect gifts for holidays, birthdays or any other occasion! To purchase a gift certificate please click on the "Gift Certificates: Purchase" link in the box above.

Can I book a private trip?

Yes! We can accommodate a variety of special requests. Please use the "Contact HarborTours" link to inquire further about special group rates.

-----QUESTIONS ABOUT THE HARBOR TOUR PORTION OF THE COMBO-----

Is the Harbor Tour portion of the Tri-Combo Package the same as the regular historic Charleston Harbor Tour?

Yes! The first part of your Combo Package is the popular Charleston Harbor Tour. This tour is identical to the Harbor Tour that you can also book as a stand alone tour.

What exactly do we see on the Harbor Tour?

Some of the sites you'll see and hear about on the Harbor Tour include: the white steeple of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church which was saved from destruction during the Revolutionary and Civil Wars because it was painted black so as not to be an easy target; the stately homes along the Battery - a symbol of Southern elegance and perseverance; the three forts – Moultrie, Sumter, and Johnson that have played a significant role in our history from the Revolution through World War II; Patriot’s Point, the home of the Yorktown, the famous “Fighting Lady” of World War II; and Charleston’s landmark Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, a new state of the art span that accommodates the largest ships in the world. You can also catch a glimpse of dolphins skimming the surface as they feed or a pelican as he nose dives into the water in search of a tasty tidbit.

Is the Carolina Belle covered?

Yes, the Carolina Belle has two decks - A glassed-in “Main Salon”, which is climate controlled and an “Observation Deck”, each providing spectacular views of Charleston harbor. The Observation Deck is open, however, it does have some roof-covered space.

Is this viewing equally good on both levels of the vessel?

Yes, you will have a panoramic view from either level.

Can I buy food or drinks on board?

There is a snack bar aboard the Carolina Belle that has soda, bottled water, wine, beer, mixed cocktails, chips, hot dogs, burgers, candy bars, cookies, etc. The snack bar excepts cash or charge on board.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on board?

No, we ask you not to bring any food or drinks on board. You will be able to purchase food and drinks at our snack bar.

Does the tour run year-round?

No, the public Harbor Tour runs from mid-February through Thanksgiving, with weekend cruises in December. Please check the calendar for the most up-to-date schedule information!

What should I wear?

Please dress appropriately for the weather conditions. Keep in mind that the temperature on the water is significantly cooler than on the land, so you may want to bring a sweater in the cooler months.

Are there any stops along the way?

No, there are no stops. We will be cruising for the entire tour.

Is the Harbor Boat Tour safe?

The Carolina Belle is a safe vessel with a normal operating crew of three or four depending on the number of passengers. She is certified for 300 hundred passengers to cruise the inland waterways, harbors and tributaries by the USCG and meets all the US Coast Guard safety requirements.

Will I get seasick?

The Carolina Belle is a steady 85-foot vessel with classic lines. The Charleston Harbor has a mild atmosphere and it is unlikely that you will feel much movement aboard the boat. If you often feel seasick, you may want to consider some light medication before beginning the trip. We cannot officially advise you to take any medication, however.

Is there any narration on the tour?

Yes, the Harbor Tour is fully narrated.

Do we see dolphins and other sealife or birdlife?

We often catch a glimpse of dolphins skimming the surface as they feed or a pelican as he nose dives into the water in search of a tasty tidbit.

Is parking available near the departure point?

Yes, a limited amount of free parking is available at the Charleston Maritime Center (as long as the lot is not full) for Harbor Tour guests. If the lot is full, you may also park at meters or in a City Parking lot nearby, however you must pay for those parking spaces.

Is there a restroom on the boat?

Yes, the boat is equipped with a clean restroom.

Where does the Harbor Tour finish?

The tour finishes in the same place that it departs from, the Charleston Maritime Center, near Calhoun and Concord Streets.

Can I stow anything during the cruise?

We do have limited closet space for wheelchairs and strollers on board. If you have a backpack or other item, we ask that you keep it under your seat. We are not responsible for lost or missing items.

Is smoking allowed on board the Carolina Belle?

Smoking is not permitted. The City of Charleston has a smoking ban which includes all businesses.

Are dogs allowed on board?

No, Department of Health regulations prohibit animals on board with the exception of service animals.

----QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CARRIAGE RIDE PORTION OF THE COMBO----

How do I reserve my spot for the Palmetto Carriage Works portion of the Tri-Combo?

Your Combo ticket provides you with admission on a Carriage Tour. All guests are admitted to the tour on a first-come, first-served basis.

When do the Palmetto Carriage Works tours run?

Check in begins at 9am and the last tour departs at 4 pm in the slow season or 5pm in the busy season. Tours leave every 20 minutes, so come by the Big Red Barn when you'd like to attend and wait for the next available carriage. Sometimes wait time can be one hour or longer for your carriage tour so be prepared to wait in a busy time. Palmetto is right in the heart of the market so there will be plenty to keep you busy as you wait for your carriage tour time. You must check in by 4 (3pm in the slow season Feb, first week of March, Nov, Dec) if you want to take the carriage tour on that same day.

How long does the Palmetto Carriage Works tour last?

The ride lasts approximately one hour.

Where does the Palmetto Carriage Works tour leave from?

The carriage ride leaves from the Big Red Barn on Guignard Street, between East Bay and Anson Streets (one block north of the world famous open air market) in Historic Charleston. Exact location details and directions will be provided when you purchase tickets. Transportation is not provided between the tours, so even if you attend on the same day, you'll need to get to Guignard Street on your own.

How long is the wait for the carriage tour?

Carriages run continuously from 9am to 4pm daily and guests board on a first-come first-served basis. Carriages generally are less busy earlier in the day.

What exact areas do you visit?

You will see the historic old market area, historical houses maintained in a timeless fashion, beautiful gardens, artistic wrought iron gates and decorative entrances to the many mansions. As the tour winds through the 25-30 block area you will see parts of the old walled city and some of the many churches that give Charleston its designation of the “Holy City.” Your tour guide will acquaint you with the history and architecture which makes Charleston one of the grandest cities in the United States. Most importantly you will gain a better understanding of the people that lived in Charleston over the past 300 years, walking the very streets that you are traveling.

Can I bring food or drinks aboard the carriage?

Yes, you can bring food and non-alcoholic beverages and snacks.

Are we alone on the carriage ride?

No, the carriage can hold up to 16 guests, so you will be sharing the carriage with the other tour participants.

Is the carriage ride narrated?

Yes, the carriage tour is fully narrated by a professional tour guide.

Where does the carriage ride finish?

The tour finishes in the same place that it departs from, the Big Red Barn on Guignard St (near East Bay St).

Is the carriage ride safe?

Yes, Palmetto Carriage Works is Charleston’s oldest carriage company and has been the leader in carriage tours in Charleston for over 25 years.

Can I store anything on the carriage?

There is room to store small backpacks and bags under your seat. Otherwise you may leave larger items, such as strollers, at the Big Red Barn (where the tour meets). Palmetto Carriage Works cannot be held responsible for lost or missing items.

Will we stop to use the restroom during the tour?

There is no scheduled bathroom stop during the tour. We will only stop in the event of an emergency, so please use the facilities beforehand. There two restrooms in the waiting area at Palmetto Carriage Works.

Is there parking nearby the carriage tour departure point?

Yes. If you purchase the Tri-Combo, you will get free parking at the Palmetto Carriage Works parking lot next to the Big Red Barn. There is both metered parking and City Parking garages available near the carriage departure point. If you are attending both the carriage ride and the Harbor Tour on the same day, you may leave your car at the Charleston Maritime Center parking lot, where a LIMITED amount of parking is available, for free for the duration of both tours.

-----QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PLANTATION PORTION OF THE COMBO-----

What does my voucher for admission to Boone Hall Plantation include?

Admission includes entry to the live theatrical presentation in the Gullah Theater, Plantation Tram Tour, Slave Street & History Tour, Plantation House tour, self guided Garden Tour and the Butterfly Pavilion ( in-season).

How do I reserve my spot for the Boone Hall Plantation portion of the Tri-Combo?

Your Tri- Combo ticket provides you with admission to the Plantation. All guests are admitted to the Plantation on a first-come, first-served basis. Groups of 10 or more must schedule in advance so that guides are arranged in the proper ratio for the size group. Contact ext. 221at Boone Hall. (You will be provided with the contact information for the Plantation after purchasing tickets).

What are the Plantation’s operating hours?

The Plantation is open all year round. From Labor Day (the first Monday in September) to March 31, the Plantation is open Monday-Saturday, from 9am-5pm, and on Sundays, from 1pm-4pm. From April 1 to Labor Day, the Plantation is open Monday-Saturday, 8:30am-6:30pm, and on Sundays, from 1pm-5pm. The Plantation is closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

How much time should I allow to tour Boone Hall?

We suggest that you allow about 2-3 hours. However, it is a large property and to get the most benefit you may wish to spend more time.

Where is Boone Hall Plantation located?

Boone Hall is located on Long Point Road in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, about 8 miles from downtown Charleston. The Plantation is about 10 miles (20 minutes) from the Charleston Maritime Center, the meeting location for the Harbor Tour portion of the Tri-Combo package. Exact meeting location details will be provided after you purchase tickets.

What exactly do we do and see at the Plantation?

You will see multiple sites that will help you understand the day to day activities of those who lived on the plantation as well as the history of the people who lived at Boone Hall. You will have the option to join various Plantation tours that run throughout the day, or you can explore the property on your own.

What are some of the different tours that are available at the Plantation?

The Plantation House Tour, the Slave Street & History Tour, Plantation Nature Tram Tour and the self guided Garden Tour run multiple times per day.

What is the House Tour?

The House Tour is a 30 minute tour that begins on the front porch and continues through the main floor of the elegant Plantation Home that was built in 1936. It is given by a well informed guide in historical dress. This tour will introduce you to the history of Boone Hall Plantation and its evolution through several owners since 1681.

What is the Slave Street and History Tour?

This tour begins at the tip of Slave Street located out in the front of the Plantation Home and is a historical look at the living quarters, historic relics, and lifestyle of the slaves that lived here at Boone Hall.

What is the Garden Tour?

This self guided tour informs you about the many various plants, flowers, and trees that are currently growing in the beautiful gardens on the front lawn. One of the main features of the garden are antique roses that are over 100 years old.

What are the theatrical presentations at Boone Hall?

Boone Hall Plantation offers live presentations that cannot be found on any other plantations and are part of what helps make Boone Hall unique. These shows are seasonal.

What is the Plantation Tram Tour?

This 40 minute tour takes you across the historical grounds, nature trails and agricultural operations of the plantation.

How long do the individual tours last and at what times?

* Plantation House tour - every 1/2 hour until 6pm, duration is approximately 30 minutes. * Slave Street history tour - every hour until 4:45pm, duration is 20 minutes. * Explaining the Gullah culture - 11:30 am, 1:30pm, and 3:30 pm duration is 45 minutes. *Plantation coach tour - every 45 minutes until 4;45pm. duration is 45 minutes * Garden and butterfly pavilion - self guided- anytime during the day until 6 pm.

Can I bring food and drinks to the Plantation?

Yes, you can also purchase snacks, salads, sandwiches and soft drinks at the cafe.

Can I store anything at the Plantation?

No there is no temporary storage lockers or area.

Are there restrooms at Boone Hall?

Yes, the bathrooms are well marked and at various locations.

Is parking available at Boone Hall?

Yes, there is free parking at the plantation.

Can I buy food or drinks at the Plantation?

Yes. Refreshments and a variety of foods are available for sale in the Butterfly Cafe on the property.

What should I wear to the Plantation?

Comfortable walking shoes and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions are recommended.

Is there transportation available to Boone Hall from downtown Charleston?

Taxi transportation to Boone Hall is available FOR AN EXTRA CHARGE. Please click "Contact this seller" to inquire further.

Charleston Harbor Tours