Fort Sumter Admission and Self-Guided Tour with Roundtrip Ferry
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 15 minutes
Mobile ticket
Visit historic Fort Sumter with the only operator in Charleston providing Admission to Fort Sumer National Monument and Round-Trip Ferry Transportation from Liberty Square or Patriots Point.
Cruise by top Charleston sites from your ferry such as Rainbow Row and Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge. For those departing from Patriots Point, experience views of the USS Yorktown Aircraft Carrier from up-close.
Explore the grounds of Fort Sumter and stand 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 who will greet you upon arrival. Your approximate 1-hour visit to Fort Sumter allows ample time to explore well-preserved fort ruins and browse Museum Store souvenirs.
Then enjoy the beautiful views of the city as you ride the ferry back to Charleston.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure time
Boarding begins 15 minutes prior to departure time
Accepted payment methods include all major credit and debit cards only
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.
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.
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.
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.
Options
Departing Liberty Square
Liberty Square: This Fort Sumter Tour departs from Liberty Square, 340 Concord St., downtown Charleston
Departing Patriots Point
Patriots Point: This Fort Sumter Tour departs from Patriots Point, 40 Patriots Point Road, Mt. Pleasant
What‘s Included
Access to the Fort Sumter Museum, Bookstore, and Souvenir Shop
Experience the opening battle of the American Civil War with a National Park Ranger
Admission to historic Fort Sumter in Charleston, South Carolina
1-hour Self-Guided Tour to explore Fort Sumter and its well-preserved ruins
Round-Trip Ferry Transportation from Liberty Square or Patriots Point (30-minutes each way)
Food & Beverages
Parking
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
3,755 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
There is little shade, so...
Adam S,Jun 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00There is little shade, so if visiting in summer, wear a hat, sunscreen, and drink water. There are also a lot of steps. There are limited accessible areas for wheelchairs and assisted walkers. Overall, the program is excellent, well-rounded, organized, and informative.
Good Activity
Danielle K,Jun 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Nice trip with a lot of information. An hour is plenty at the fort and the ride out is pleasant. It’s a good late morning activity because it gets very hot in the afternoon.
Great experience, lots of...
Gregory S,Jun 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great experience, lots of good historical accuracy and information. Park rangers were very cordial and well informed.
Our family of 3 enjoyed visiting Fort Sumter. Learning more about our nations history is always wonderful, even wars.
Jeanine A,Jun 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The ferry ride was fun, being the surrounding scenery with a cool breeze. The ranger at the fort giving the history of events, was knowledgeable and easy to understand. The museum was interesting and a nice refuge from the hot, humid weather.
Viator needs a hps
Tamara S,Jun 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
1.00Viator needs gps. Sent us to wrong location. We had to rebook with the park service. Park service said this happens all the time with 3rd parties.
Very pricey for what little you get to actually see and very rushed.
W3598ZIrobertd,Jun 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
2.00Disappointed there were not more artifacts at the site. With so many ruins, I was expecting much more. Tour was rushed and didn't have time to listen to the talk and be back at the boat in time. If you have to say you went, I guess I is OK. Otherwise spend your time an money on something else. We were disappointed.
Spectacular Tour Fort Sumter!
Ken C,Jun 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00One of best tours we’ve taken with Viator. Informative and lots of fun. Tour guides very well trained and friendly.
Nice , but boat hot
nceyedoc100,Jun 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was 97 outside - took the 930am trip - got there 910- the wait line is under a covered area - we were about 1/2 back in the lo e getting there that early - when you enter the boat - if you want to sit inside - take a right before you go up the stairs to the top thru the exit entrance- everyone enters there - would recommend going down to the bottom level - level 3- you enter there from stairs in the middle of the 2nd level - it is COOL there - the guy at the food place was very helpful
Great experience!
Ashley S,Jun 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00We had a wonderful time at Fort Sumter. Kids really enjoyed the ferry ride to and from, and it was overall a great family activity to do together!
Good tour for war history
twinmomone,Jun 26, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00The historical information and its place in US war history is very well explained at the fort. Personally I say this is a one and done tour. It won't change, and the visitor facilities are neligible (no restrooms, teeny tiny gift shop). Kids might like the cannons. Tourists might like the ferry and views and history buffs will appreciate the detailed stories of the fort.
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