Take a ferry ride to the grounds of Fort Sumter, where America’s deadliest war began. Explore the grounds at Fort Sumter National Monument and visit the Museum there.
About this ticket
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Valid 1 day
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Wheelchair accessible
Experience
Highlights
- Explore the grounds of Fort Sumter National Monument
- Cruise to Fort Sumter from Liberty Square or Patriot's Point
- Listen to knowledgable National Park Rangers tell stories about the Civil War's first battle
Full description
COVID-19 Update
Due to health and safety regulations, this itinerary may change. See Know before you go for the latest updates.
Enjoy 2 convenient ferry departure points: Liberty Square in downtown Charleston or Patriot’s Point in Mount Pleasant. See the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge as you ride the ferry along, and take in sighes of Charleston’s stately Rainbow Row and Battery homes. As you approach Fort Sumter, graceful sailboats and playful dolphins add to the photogenic scene.
If you depart from Mt. Pleasant you will enjoy views of the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier from up-close, while tours embarking from downtown will see Aquarium Wharf as they depart and return.
Arrive at The Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park, which sits prominently at the mouth of the Charleston Harbor, a strategic location that was crucial to its defense.
While here, explore the grounds of Fort Sumter. Stand on the grounds where America’s deadliest war began at Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park. The first shots were fired here, igniting a conflict that saw more than 700,000 casualties. Experience the opening battle of the American Civil War and explore its origins with a National Park Ranger. Your approximate 1-hour visit to Fort Sumter allows ample time to explore well-preserved fort ruins and browse Museum Store souvenirs.
A visit to Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park provides a window into the life and trials of America’s heroes, from the Civil War to today’s modern conflicts. Learn about the events leading to the war from knowledgeable National Park Rangers who will relay stories of courageous heroes in action from the Civil War’s first battle. Walk in the steps of those who shaped this nation alongside a National Park Ranger.
Then enjoy the beautiful views of the city as you ride the ferry back to Charleston.
Includes
- Fort Sumter Ferry
- Fort Sumter National Monument Admission
- Food and drinks (available for purchase)
- Tips
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- Customers must keep distance in vehicles
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Meeting point varies depending on option booked.
Important information
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Comfortable clothes
Not allowed
- Luggage or large bags
- Intoxication
Know before you go
- Due to ongoing COVID-19 preventative measures, some areas and services may be restricted. Please check with the attraction for details.
- Outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted, but they are not allowed inside the fort’s museum
- Outside alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Beer and wine will be available for purchase on the return boat trip only.
- Tours run rain or shine
