Visit the site where the American Civil War began without the hassle of arranging transportation or waiting in line for tickets with this Fort Sumter experience that includes admission tickets and round-trip ferry transport. Take in views of Rainbow Row and the Battery as you cruise through Charleston Harbor, then enjoy an hour at the fort to explore the historic fort and its museum before the return ferry ride.

Hassle-free Fort Sumter visit with prebooked ticket and round-trip ferry
Catch the ferry at Liberty Square or Patriots Point for a scenic cruise
A park ranger greeter for an overview of the fort and its history
An hour of free time to visit the fort, museum, and souvenir shop

What To Expect

Fort Sumter National Monument

Visit historic Fort Sumter National Monument located in Charleston, SC with the only operator in the city offering Admission to Fort Sumter plus Round-Trip Ferry Service.

Experience a relaxing 30minute Narrated Harbor Cruise to historic Fort Sumter, where America’s deadliest war began. You will learn about the events which led to the outbreak of America’s most bloody war. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by a National Park Service Ranger, who will provide further details about Fort Sumter and its pivotal role in the American Civil War. On the fort you will find a very informative museum (360 Video of Museum) with many historic artifacts and a souvenir shop. After your roughly one hour visit, you will enjoy a scenic cruise back to your departure point.
1 hour • Admission Ticket Included

Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center

Ferries depart from the Fort Sumter Visitor’s Center in downtown Charleston for those who select the Liberty Square departure option during checkout.
• Admission Ticket Free

Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge

Enjoy scenic views of top Charleston sites during your cruise to Fort Sumter, including Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge.
• Admission Ticket Free

Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum

For those departing from Patriots Point, experience views of the historic USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier from up-close.

• Admission Ticket Free

Fort Moultrie

Fort Moultrie is a series of forts along Sullivan’s Island. Enjoy views of the fort as you cruise by or while on Fort Sumter.
• Admission Ticket Free

Battery & White Point Gardens

Enjoy scenic views of Charleston such as Battery homes during your cruise to Fort Sumter.
• Admission Ticket Free

Highlight

Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
Wheelchair accessible
Stroller accessible
Service animals allowed
Near public transportation
Most travelers can participate
The ferries are equipped with an elevator/lift and handicapped accessible restrooms. The Liberty Square boarding ramp can accommodate electric & manual wheelchairs and scooters except in extreme tide situations. Although the restrooms on Fort Sumter are accessible only by climbing a flight of stairs, the ferry remains at the Fort so that restrooms on the boat are available during your visit.
There is currently no Elevator Service at Fort Sumter – the museum, restrooms, bookstore and top level of Fort Sumter are only accessible by climbing stairs.
Please note the Fort Sumter Tour is a boat excursion dependent on changing weather and tide conditions, Fort Sumter Tours cannot and does not guarantee accessibility. Ramps used to access the ferry can vary based on tides and adverse conditions.
Tours run rain or shine. Only the Captain has the final say as to whether he feels it needs to be canceled due to weather. That decision is made at the time of departure and throughout the duration of the tour.
3:45 tour departing from Patriots Point is a 3 hour tour in total time.
Charleston County has now dropped into a medium risk level for Covid-19, therefore masks are not required, but optional.
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 385 travelers

Include

Admission to historic Fort Sumter in Charleston, South Carolina
Round-Trip Ferry Transportation from Liberty Square or Patriots Point (30-minutes each way)
1-hour Self-Guided Tour to explore Fort Sumter and its well-preserved ruins
Experience the opening battle of the American Civil War with a National Park Ranger
Access to the Fort Sumter Museum, Bookstore, and Souvenir Shop

Exclude

Food & Beverages (available for purchase)
Gratuities