Fort Sumter Park Ranger-Led Guided Tour with Round-Trip Ferry

Your experience

Visit Fort Sumter by round-trip ferry from Liberty Square or Patriots Point, with a 30-minute cruise each way and one hour at the fort.

Getting started

Begin by checking in at your selected departure point, either Liberty Square in downtown Charleston or Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant. Present your booking, then board the ferry at your scheduled departure time. You will need to arrive 30 minutes early, since the boats leave promptly and late arrivals cannot be accommodated.

Fort Sumter and ferry experience

What to expect

This experience combines a harbor crossing with direct entry to Fort Sumter, where the American Civil War began. You travel by water, spend one hour on the fort grounds, then return on the same ferry, which remains docked during your visit.

Features

• Pick your departure point: Your ticket includes round-trip ferry transportation to Fort Sumter from Liberty Square or Patriots Point, with a 30-minute cruise each way to and from the fort.

• Admission included: Entry to Fort Sumter is part of your ticket, so there’s no need to arrange separate passes.

• Educational experience: Learn about the opening chapter of the Civil War through ranger insights and museum exhibits.

• Flexible exploration time: Enjoy a self-guided visit, browsing the museum, bookstore, and grounds at your own pace before returning to Charleston.