Entering Charleston Harbor at night has always been a bit tricky. With all the commercial traffic, not to mention the bevy of lighted navigational aids, the water often resembles a Christmas Tree, and it can hard to decide what's what. Captain Lourie gives some good advice below when entering from Charleston Harbor Inlet at night.

Entering Charleston Harbor at night was slightly different.  The Fort Sumpter Range has blinding red range lights.   There is no way to get lost.  Stay slightly outside (north of) the marked channel to give berth to commerical traffic.  Charleston Harbor Marina is (as always) generous, well appointed, and a great place for a shower.
Lourie Salley
S/V "August Moon"

The Charleston Maritime Center is located on the Cooper River side of the Charleston peninsulla, almost opposite Charleston Harbor Marina in Mount Pleasant (A SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSOR). The Martime Center is, in my humble opinion, one of the least desirable places to berth in Charleston, even though it’s within walking distance of many attractions and restaurants. There are some shallow water problems, and the entire operation has never struck me as being well managed. But, hey, that’s just my opinion. Obvously, (see below) Captain Bob had a much happier experience!

The Docks at Charleston Maritime center are floating concrete, the cost is 1.20 per ft. (they may have a discount for longer term) and it is closer to town and only two blocks from Harris Teeter (great grocery store) and the staff are great. That’s where we stay every time we are in Charleston.
Bob

Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Charleston Maritime Center

Glad to include the short note below about North Charleston’s Dolphin Cove Marina. These good people, and Diane in particular, have LONG been a supporter of the Net, and they are a SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUSIERS’ NET SPONSOR! It’s a bit of cruise up the Ashley to reach this facility, but you will find a warm welcome and improving docks.

I have not until today had knowledge of anyone going up the Ashley River that Far to Dolphin cove Marine. Price definitley was right. For the others who may consider this location, You need to clear a 14 ft air draft to get up river as they do not want to open the two Old Draw Bridges. We have plenty of Marinas in Charleston and the near by area. It all depends on what amenities your want and how close to downtown Charleston You want to be. We enjoy life at the City Marina. Best Regards….Ya;ll come see us now Hear.
Capt Bob

Bob,
They were opening the drawbridges, I think on the hour upon request.? There were boats waiting for them to open so they could go through.? We are about 15 ft. (with our canopy?up) and the bridge tender said the bridges were 18 ft. at high tide.? We had no problems going under.? You have a beautiful city and wonderful restaurants.? I am sorry we only had enough time to sample a few of them!? Today we are going to Beaufort and plan to anchor out and dingy in. Also, we are thinking of toping off our fuel before we leave S.C. Everyone tells us S.C. has the best fuel prices.?
Ben and Barbara Falmlen
Two Cats Too

Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Dolphin Cove Marina

There’s some really good advice about marina facilities in the Charleston area contained in Captain Key and Lynn’s message below. Anyone planning on visiting the “Holy City” should take heed to their works. I’m pleased to see that the two marinas which fare best in their report are Charleston Harbor Marina and Charleston City Marina, both of which are SALTY SOUTHEAST CRUISERS’ NET SPONSORS!

Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Charleston Harbor Marina

Click Here To View the South Carolina Cruisers’ Net Marina Directory Listing For Charleston City Marina