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Historic ruins seen during Fort Sumter tours in Charleston, SC
Tickets start at $26.00

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Fort Sumter Tours & Ferry Tickets, Charleston, SC

Discover where American history began with our Fort Sumter tours in Charleston, SC. Hop on to our service that offers the ferry to Fort Sumter (convenient and reliable access to this historic landmark). Each tour includes a scenic boat ride through Charleston Harbor, a 2.25-hour stay at Fort Sumter, and a return trip. This is just perfect for history lovers, families, and groups (yeah, the views are actually worth it).

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Fort Sumter Tours – Departure Point Comparison

Our Fort Sumter tour is designed for travelers who just want a proper and chill experience. The tour begins with a relaxing ferry ride from either Liberty Square or Patriots Point, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of Charleston’s waterfront and harbor.

Patriots Point01
~2 hrs 15 min
10:45 AM & 1:30 PM daily
40 Patriots Point Rd, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464

Patriots Point Mount Pleasant

30-min narrated Fort Sumter ferry across Charleston Harbor
Ranger talks + Q&A at the fort
~1 hr exploring fort, museum, visitor centre exhibits
Access to America’s National Parks Store on site
Waterfront & USS Yorktown views at ferry return
Visitors staying in Mt. Pleasant or combining with USS Yorktown & Naval Museum
Liberty Square02
~2 hrs 15 min
9:30 AM, 12:00 PM & 2:45 PM daily
340 Concord St, Charleston, SC 29401

Liberty Square Downtown Charleston

30-min Fort Sumter boat tour from downtown
Ranger talks + live historic commentary during cruise
~1 hr exploring fort, museum exhibits, ranger talks
Access to the gift shop & historic displays at the fort
Charleston skyline & harbor views on return
Visitors staying downtown Charleston, near the Aquarium & Historic District

Why Choose Us

Historic Access

Historic Access

Guaranteed Fort Sumter tour tickets with ferry ride included (no hidden fees)

Instant Booking

Instant Booking

Quick and easy online booking with immediate confirmation

Scenic Harbor Cruise

Scenic Harbor Cruise

Relaxing ferry ride across Charleston Harbor with stunning skyline and water views

Expert Rangers

Expert Rangers

Learn from National Park Service rangers who share powerful stories of the Civil War

Flexible Departures

Flexible Departures

Multiple daily departures from Liberty Square and Patriots Point

Trusted Experience

Trusted Experience

Top-rated tours enjoyed by thousands of history lovers every year

Why Choose Us
Highlights

Why Visit Fort Sumter?

So, Fort Sumter, yeah! That's the place where the whole Civil War was fought in 1861. At the entrance of Charleston Harbor, it is one of the most visited places. A Fort Sumter tour gives you the best chance to walk through the grounds where history changed the course of America. You get this ferry ride across the harbor (which, by the way, is pretty cool), then a walk through the fort itself. Absolutely memorable tour!

Fort Sumter Tours Overview

Fort Sumter tours are about 2 hours and include the ferry service, history talks from rangers, and ample time to view the fort on your own.

Here’s what you can expect on a standard Fort Sumter tour:

  • Complete 2-way ferry rides from Charleston or Mount Pleasant.
  • Amazing harbor views, like the Ravenel Bridge & Charleston skyline.
  • Guided history presentation by National Park Service rangers.
  • Self-exploration of the fort’s grounds, exhibits, and museum.

This island, Fort Sumter, and these tours remain one of the top things to do in Charleston, South Carolina.

Fort Sumter Tours Charleston, SC: What Makes Them Special?

Here’s what makes Charleston, South Carolina, Fort Sumter tours special:

  • Historic Importance: Fort Sumter is where the Civil War started. Visiting the place gives you a chance to look into war things.
  • Harbor Setting: The ferry ride to the fort comes with wonderful views of Charleston Harbor, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, and the city’s waterfront
  • Expert Guidance: Rangers there share complete stories and historical points, which add more “wow” to your visit.
  • Easy Departure Points: Ferries depart from Liberty Square in downtown Charleston and Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. and Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant.

Getting There - Fort Sumter Ferry Tours

The only way to reach Fort Sumter is by water, and most tourists travel through the Fort Sumter ferry. The ferry service is made to make your trip a good one, informative, and enjoyable from start to finish.

Fort Sumter Ferry Departure Points:

  • Liberty Square, Downtown Charleston: Best for visitors who love historic things.
  • Patriots Point, Mount Pleasant: Perfect for those who want the USS Yorktown and other attractions.

What to Expect on the Ferry to Fort Sumter

  • 30-minute boat ride across Charleston Harbor (views! Just wow!)
  • Indoor and outdoor seating for comfort
  • Live narration about landmarks and Civil War history
  • Clear views of the Charleston skyline
  • See the Ravenel Bridge and Morris Island Lighthouse

Booking Ft Sumter ferry tickets early helps you get the time you want, like on weekends and busy seasons. The ferry ride is part of the trip, with comfortable seating and beautiful views before you reach the fort.

Tickets for Fort Sumter

To visit the fort, you must purchase Fort Sumter tour tickets, your pass to get in. Tickets sell out very quickly, especially during weekends and peak tourist seasons. Snag yours in advance. Get your ticket in less than a minute. Go from Liberty Square and Patriots Point.

Fort Sumter Tours Pricing:

  • Adult tickets from $40–$45.
  • Lower rates are available for children, seniors, and military members.
  • Children under a specific age (like, 3 yr) are free; check current policies before booking.

Tips for Booking Tickets for Fort Sumter:

  • Grab your Fort Sumter ferry tickets online a few days before your trip.
  • Grab your Fort Sumter ferry tickets online a few days before your trip. Show up about 30 minutes early to check in and hop on board.
  • Around holidays or school breaks, lock in your tickets way ahead so you don’t get stuck last-minute.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Fort Sumter Tour

Getting the right Fort Sumter tickets makes the whole trip smooth, from the chill ferry ride across the harbor to walking around the fort. Planning ahead saves you headaches and helps you enjoy more.

Best Time to Visit:

  • Spring and fall = nice weather + fewer crowds.
  • Morning tours = cooler temps + perfect light for photos.

What to Bring:

  • Pack water and sunscreen; shade’s pretty limited inside.
  • Pack water and sunscreen; shade’s pretty limited inside.
  • Bring a camera or your phone to capture those shots (must).

Arrival and Boarding:

  • Arrive 30 minutes early.
  • Have your Fort Sumter tour tickets ready.

Accessibility & Family Info:

  • Ferries work fine with wheelchairs and strollers.
  • The fort has paved spots, but some areas are a little rough.
  • Ranger talks are super kid-friendly and fun for families.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do the ferries to Fort Sumter leave from?

The ferry to Fort Sumter runs from two points:

• Liberty Square in downtown Charleston
• Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant

How long does the Fort Sumter tour take?

Fort Sumter tours take about 2 hours and 15 minutes. It includes the boat ride both ways and around 1 hour on the fort itself.

Do I need to book tickets in advance?

Yeah! Because Fort Sumter tickets sell early.

How much do tickets cost, and what’s included?

Fort Sumter tour tickets include the Fort Sumter ferry ride, entry to the fort, and other programs by rangers. Prices are as per the age, like for adults, which range around $40, and for children and seniors, it’s different.

Which is better: Patriots Point or Liberty Square departure?

Both provide the same tour experience at the fort. Patriots Point is easier for visitors staying in Mount Pleasant or those who want to pair the trip with the naval museum. Liberty Square is more convenient for downtown Charleston stays.

What should I bring for the tour?

Pack light: comfortable shoes, water, sunscreen, and a hat. And yeah, tickets. It’s enough.

Is Fort Sumter wheelchair and stroller accessible?

Yes, the Fort Sumter ferry and fort grounds allow wheelchairs and strollers. Just note, some areas may have uneven surfaces.

What happens if it rains or the weather is bad?

Fort Sumter boat tours in Charleston, SC, run rain or shine. If there’s severe weather, the Fort Sumter ferry may be delayed or canceled for safety. In that case, tickets can be rescheduled.

Are ranger talks and flag ceremonies part of the tour?

Yep! Fort Sumter tours in Charleston, SC, include ranger talks about the fort’s history, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the daily flag ceremony too.

Fort Sumter tours Charleston SC with views of cannons and harbor

Our Unforgettable Fort Sumter Tours Experience

*Take a ferry ride to Fort Sumter and just see where American history changed forever. This is where the very first shots of the Civil War were fired. Step inside the fort. Touch the bricks. Stand by the cannons. The rangers tell stories that stay with you. All of this brings the old days back to life. The ride itself is very special, with wide views of Charleston Harbor and the Ravenel Bridge. Every ticket includes your two-way ferry and time to explore the fort on your own. And yes, we are a private booking company, so if anything feels unclear, please contact us. We’ll be happy to help!

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Book your Fort Sumter tickets and explore the site where the Civil War began. Enjoy an unforgettable visit to one of America’s most historic coastal forts.

Let's Plan the Fort Sumter Tour Now!