logo
Harbor view on Fort Sumter tours and ferry rides in Charleston SC
Civil War cannonball embedded in the historic brick walls of Fort Sumter
Fort Sumter National Monument
Historic cannon image of Fort Sumter at Charleston Harbor
Fort Sumter visitor education centre at liberty square

Fort Sumter Tours: Departure from Patriots Point

Book your Fort Sumter Tours from Patriots Point and enjoy a ferry ride across Charleston Harbor to the historic fort. Yeah, that’s the same fort where the Civil War began. Our guided Fort Sumter tours include complete boat service, museum access, and ranger programs. It’s the super-easy and most convenient way to experience this national monument. Just book your tickets online today.

What’s Included in a Fort Sumter Tour from Patriots Point

A Fort Sumter tour from Patriots Point offers more than just a ferry ride; it’s a complete historical and lovely experience. The moment you board the boat, you’ll feel like every part of the journey is designed for you, to let you feel the charm of Charleston’s beauty. Here is what is included:

  • Round-trip ferry ride from Patriots Point is included with every ticket
  • Entrance to Fort Sumter and access to on-site exhibits
  • One hour to explore the fort on your own
  • Ranger-led history talk explaining Fort Sumter’s role in the Civil War
  • Chance to view original cannons and museum displays
  • Ferry ride across Charleston Harbor with views of:
    • Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge
    • Castle Pinckney
    • Charleston skyline
  • A perfect mix of education, history, and sightseeing
  • Tours provide easy transport, guided history, and self-exploration, too.
  • Visitors leave with beautiful memories and a way more deeper understanding of American history

A Complete Fort Sumter Tour Schedule From Patriots Point

A tour from Patriots Point takes you to the site where the Civil War started in April 1861. The 30-minute narrated ferry offers views of Charleston Harbor, passing Castle Pinckney, the Battery, and USS Yorktown with commentary on the city’s Civil War history.

At Fort Sumter, roam about here and there for about an hour. See the fort’s battle-damaged walls, museum exhibits, original flags, and ranger-led talks that bring history to life. From the top, enjoy lovely harbor views before returning on a relaxing ferry ride. This tour blends history, scenery, and storytelling in one unforgettable experience.

Fort Sumter Tours

(Departure from Patriots Point)

~2 hrs 15 min

10:45 AM & 1:30 PM daily

Why Choose Fort Sumter Tours from Patriots Point?

Preparation Tips

Convenient Access from Mount Pleasant

Fort Sumter tours from Patriots Point are just perfect for visitors outside Charleston. In Mount Pleasant, across the Ravenel Bridge, Patriots Point offers direct car access with ample parking. Families, groups, and travelers enjoy a peaceful start with less city traffic while boarding the Fort Sumter ferry with ease.

Preparation Tips

Harbor Ferry Experience

The ferry ride on Fort Sumter tours from Patriots Point delivers the best views of Charleston Harbor, like the USS Yorktown, Ravenel Bridge, and skyline. More than just a trip, the Fort Sumter ferry provides a wow experience. Travelers enjoy both history and scenery. This makes every Fort Sumter tour memorable from departure to return.

Preparation Tips

Combine with Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

Fort Sumter tours from this Point offer the cool benefit of visiting the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum. At the same site, guests can explore the USS Yorktown, a submarine, and historic aircraft. Along with a Fort Sumter tour, the museum exhibits create a full day of history for families, groups, and enthusiasts.

Preparation Tips

Less Crowded Than Liberty Square Departures

Many visitors choose tours from Patriots Point because departures are often less crowded than Liberty Square. Boarding is smoother, with shorter lines and a calmer process. Families with children and larger groups appreciate the convenience, making Patriots Point the preferred choice when booking a Fort Sumter tour.

Preparation Tips

Flexible Departure Times

Fort Sumter tours run on a schedule with morning and afternoon options. Each tour is about 2 hours and 15 minutes, with ferry travel and one hour at the fort. This flexibility lets visitors plan around other Charleston activities. Booking Fort Sumter tours early secures preferred times.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Fort Sumter boat tour?

The full tour lasts about 2 hours and 15 minutes. This includes the ferry ride to and from the fort, plus roughly one hour on site.

Are Ft. Sumter tours family-friendly, like for all ages?

Yes. The ferry ride and fort exploration suit all ages. Families often combine the tour with a visit to the nearby Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum.

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.

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!

logo

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!