Charleston’s tourism industry is riding a record wave heading into 2026, with the College of Charleston’s Office of Tourism Analysis reporting a $14 billion economic impact for the city in its most recent report. For Carolina Marine Group, the region’s eight-time consecutive winner of the Post and Courier Charleston Choice Award, that momentum could not come at a better time. The Charleston-based private boat tour company, founded by Captain Dave Gugliotti in 2014, is now open for the 2026 season and welcoming guests back to the harbor.
Interested parties can find more information at Carolina Marine Group.
Operating out of the Charleston City Marina on the Central Walkway at 17 Lockwood Drive, Carolina Marine Group offers fully private charters accommodating groups of up to 18 passengers. The company’s model is built entirely around the guest experience. Clients choose their own music, determine their route, and decide what refreshments come along for the ride, making every charter different from the last.
That guest-first approach has proven well timed. Across the country, travelers in 2026 are moving away from crowded group experiences and toward private, personalized outings, a shift that is especially visible in the bachelorette and bachelor party market. Industry observers note that private boat charters have become a preferred format for celebration travel, with groups prioritizing experiences that feel personal and memorable over traditional nightlife-centered alternatives. Carolina Marine Group has offered exactly that model since day one.
The 2026 season lineup reflects the full range of reasons guests come to Charleston. Available charters include harbor tours, dolphin watching excursions, sunset cruises, party boat tours including bachelorette parties and bachelor parties, engagement cruises with discreet photo and video capture, wedding sail-aways, corporate team-building outings, cigar and bourbon tours, Port and Shipyard tours, and Intracoastal Waterway adventures.
“I have spent over 30 years on this water and I still love every single trip,” said Gugliotti. “When people come to Charleston and spend a few hours out on the harbor with us, they leave with something they did not expect. That is what keeps me doing this.”
Spring and summer charters on Charleston Harbor fill quickly, and Carolina Marine Group’s reputation as an eight-time Charleston Choice Award winner means availability goes fast. Those looking to get on the water in 2026 are encouraged to book early at the link above or by calling (843) 779-5711.
Media Contact
Company Name: Carolina Marine Group
Contact Person: Captain Dave Gugliotti
Email: Send Email
Phone: (843) 779-5711
Address:17 Lockwood Dr
City: Charleston
State: SC
Country: United States
Website: https://carolinamarinegroup.com/