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n Charleston, everyone wants to hold events by the water, so why not hold an event actually on the water? A number of operators offer unique floating venues for parties, events and receptions—from milliondollar luxury yachts to a charming riverboat with a working paddlewheel. A 360-degree view of Charleston’s iconic waterways along with stately homes and church spires always comes standard, and sightings of dolphins are all but guaranteed. Events at sea aren’t new, but they have seen an uptick over the past several years, according to vessel opera-
tors in Charleston. Ashley Davis, sales manager at The Carolina Girl, said the company books between 50-75 events each year, from wedding rehearsals to company lunches. The 100-foot luxury yacht can comfortably accommodate 150 guests for celebrations year-round. “We bring you a sunset that’s changing every 30 minutes. Photographers love it because of the lighting and the skyline is distinctly Charleston,” Davis said. Each moving event promises
An event aboard the Carolina Girl. Photo/Kate Photography
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Event Planning Guide 2016
a unique and memorable experience, one which guests will have a hard time getting bored while onboard. “A lot of times dolphins will swim in the boat’s bow wake,” said Drew Yochum, director of sales and marketing at Charleston Harbor Tours. The fleet includes The Carolina Belle, a 1920s replica vessel with a smokestack and the Carolina Queen Riverboat with a working paddlewheel. While the route depends on the weather and tides, vessels almost always cruise along the Charleston Battery, the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway
By Jenny Peterson and underneath the Arthur Ravenel Jr. suspension bridge. Not your average boat Luxurious accommodations await guests on these chartered boats, including plenty of air-conditioned spaces. Each boat can be decked out with personalized décor and in-house event coordinators can arrange everything from table linens to floral decorations. Ideas are only limited by imagination. “No two events are exactly alike,” Yochum said. “We’ve had everything from casino night with craps and blackjack and roulette to a comedy