Sailing Myrtle Beach: Where to Charter, What to Expect, and How to Plan Your Trip

What You Can Do When You Sail in Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach's calm inlets and Atlantic waters draw sailors year-round, and you can charter a sailboat for anything from a sunset cruise to a full day exploring the coast. Most charters run two to four hours, though some operators offer overnight trips or multi-day voyages down to Charleston or up toward Calabash, North Carolina. You'll find single-hull sailboats ranging from 25 to 40 feet, crewed by captains who handle navigation while you help trim sails or simply sit back and watch the water.

The season runs strongest from April through October, when winds are steady and water temperatures climb into the 70s. Winter sailing is possible but less common—fewer operators run charters, and the water sits in the 50s. Most trips depart from Barefoot Landing, the Intracoastal Waterway near North Myrtle Beach, or from marinas along the Waccamaw River, depending on which operator you choose and what kind of sail you want.

Key Takeaways

• Myrtle Beach sailing charters typically last two to four hours and depart from Barefoot Landing or nearby marinas along the Intracoastal Waterway.
• You can book sunset sails, daytime cruises, or longer trips; most operators provide a captain and handle all navigation while you participate or relax.
• The best sailing season runs April through October, when winds are steady and water temperatures reach the 70s.
• Prices vary by operator and trip length, so calling ahead to confirm availability and what's included (food, drinks, instruction) saves time.
• Seasickness is common on ocean swells, so eat lightly before departure and sit amidships rather than at the bow or stern.

Where Charters Depart and What Each Route Offers

Most sailing charters in Myrtle Beach leave from Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach, a sprawling entertainment complex where several operators dock their boats. The Intracoastal Waterway—a protected inland route running parallel to the coast—is the most common departure point because it offers calmer water than the open Atlantic. Trips on the Intracoastal typically take you past salt marshes, barrier islands, and residential waterfront, with views of dolphins and wading birds.

Some operators also run charters from marinas closer to downtown Myrtle Beach or from the Waccamaw River, which winds inland through cypress swamps and offers a completely different experience—narrower, shadier, and more focused on wildlife than on sailing technique. If you want open-ocean sailing with bigger swells and stronger winds, a few captains will take you beyond the inlet into the Atlantic, though these trips are less common and usually require more sailing experience or comfort with rougher conditions.

Before booking, ask which waterway the charter uses. Intracoastal trips are gentler and better for families or first-time sailors. Ocean trips offer more authentic sailing but can feel choppy if you're prone to motion sickness.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

Wear clothes you don't mind getting wet—spray from the bow is common, and you may end up in the water if you're learning to swim or if conditions get rough. Bring a light jacket or fleece even in summer, because wind on the water cools you down quickly. Sunscreen is essential; the sun reflects off the water and burns faster than on land. A hat with a strap keeps it from blowing overboard.

Eat a light meal an hour or two before departure. A full stomach makes seasickness worse, but an empty one does too. Ginger ale, ginger candies, or over-the-counter motion sickness medication taken 30 minutes before boarding helps many people. Sit amidships (in the middle of the boat) rather than at the bow or stern, where motion is most pronounced.

Bring a camera in a waterproof case if you want photos. Most charters allow phones and cameras, but keep them secured so they don't fall overboard. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring a strap to keep glasses in place or consider leaving contacts out—salt spray irritates eyes.

Types of Sails and What Each Involves

Sunset sails are the most popular charter type in Myrtle Beach. They typically run two to three hours in late afternoon, departing around 5 or 6 p.m. depending on the season. You'll watch the sun drop over the water while the captain handles the boat, and most include wine, beer, or soft drinks. These trips are social and relaxed—you're not expected to help sail, though you can if you want to learn.

Daytime cruises last three to four hours and often include instruction if you're interested. The captain may let you take the wheel, trim the sails, or learn basic navigation. These trips work well for families or groups who want a more active experience. Some operators pack lunch or snacks; others ask you to bring your own.

Overnight and multi-day sails are less common but available through a few operators. These trips anchor in protected coves, offer meals and sleeping berths below deck, and give you time to really learn sailing or simply disconnect. They typically cost significantly more than day trips and require booking well in advance.

Costs and What's Usually Included

Sunset sail prices typically range from $50 to $100 per person, depending on the operator and whether drinks and snacks are included. Daytime cruises usually cost $60 to $120 per person. Multi-day trips run higher—often $300 to $600 per person or more—because they include meals and overnight accommodations. Group rates and family packages are common, so ask when you call.

Most operators include the captain and crew, basic safety equipment (life jackets), and either drinks or a light snack. Some charters are BYOB (bring your own beverages), while others provide beer, wine, and soft drinks. A few include a full meal; others offer nothing beyond the sail itself. Call ahead to confirm what's included so you're not surprised, and ask whether there are any additional fees for instruction, photos, or special requests.

Cancellations due to weather are common, especially in summer when afternoon thunderstorms pop up. Most operators offer a full refund or reschedule you for another day if conditions aren't safe. Ask about their weather policy when you book.

Safety, Seasickness, and Physical Demands

Sailing is generally safe when you follow the captain's instructions and wear your life jacket. The captain is responsible for navigation, weather decisions, and the boat's operation. Your job is to listen, stay seated unless told otherwise, and speak up if you feel unwell or unsafe. Children under a certain age (usually 5 or 6) may not be permitted on some charters, so confirm before booking if you're bringing young kids.

Seasickness affects roughly one in three people on boats, and it's unpredictable—you might feel fine on one trip and queasy on another depending on water conditions, what you ate, and how anxious you feel. The Intracoastal Waterway is calmer than the open ocean, so if you're worried, choose an Intracoastal charter. Sit in the middle of the boat, focus on the horizon, and avoid looking at your phone. If you do feel sick, tell the captain—they've seen it before and won't judge.

Most sailing charters don't require physical strength, but you should be able to move around the boat safely, climb a few steps, and sit for extended periods. If you have mobility issues, mobility aids, or back problems, mention them when you book so the captain can advise whether the boat is suitable and where you'll be most comfortable.

When to Book and How to Find Operators

Book at least a few days ahead during the off-season (November through March) and one to two weeks ahead during peak season (May through September). Popular sunset sails fill up quickly on weekends, so earlier is better. Many operators take reservations online or by phone; a few still require you to call.

Search for "sailing charters Myrtle Beach" or "sailboat rentals Myrtle Beach" to find current operators. Check reviews on Google, Yelp, or TripAdvisor to see what past sailors say about the captain, boat condition, and whether the trip matched the description. Ask whether the operator is Coast Guard certified and whether the captain has liability insurance—these are signs of a professional, well-run business.

Barefoot Landing's website lists several charter operators that dock there, and you can walk around the marina to see boats and talk to captains in person if you prefer. This also lets you gauge the boat's size and condition before committing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need sailing experience to go on a charter?

No. Most charters are designed for beginners and non-sailors. The captain handles all navigation and boat operation. If you want to learn, tell the captain and they'll usually teach you basic skills like trimming sails or steering. If you just want to relax, you can sit back and enjoy the ride.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The captain monitors weather and will cancel or reschedule if conditions are unsafe—usually high winds, lightning, or heavy rain. Most operators offer a full refund or let you reschedule for another day at no extra cost. Ask about their specific weather policy when you book.

Can I bring my own food and drinks?

Most operators allow you to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. Some are BYOB for alcohol; others prohibit outside alcohol entirely. A few provide everything. Call ahead to confirm the policy so you know what to pack.

How long does a typical charter last?

Most charters run two to four hours. Sunset sails are usually two to three hours. Daytime cruises are three to four hours. Multi-day trips obviously last longer. Check the operator's description when you book to confirm the exact duration.

What if I get seasick?

Sit in the middle of the boat, focus on the horizon, and avoid looking at your phone. Ginger, motion sickness medication taken before boarding, and eating lightly beforehand all help. Tell the captain if you feel unwell—they can adjust course or speed to make the ride smoother. Intracoastal charters are calmer than ocean charters if you're worried.