Beach weddings are fine and dandy, but if you really want to get close to the water, try a wedding at sea. Charleston Harbor Tours and Events hosts rehearsal dinners and weddings for up to 250 people on their vessels the Carolina Belle and the Carolina Queen, two riverboat-style ships with open observation decks, dining salons and full bars. Couples can simply rent the boat and make their own catering and entertainment arrangements, or they can purchase an all-inclusive package. “We typically do gourmet, buffet-style catering,” says Charleston Harbor Tours’ Drew Yochum. Bar packages are additional, but they can be customized to fit your needs, whatever they may be. Pricing is based on a three-hour cruise; for an all-inclusive wedding with a bar package, Yochum says to expect to pay around $80 – 85 per person, although that could change based on many factors.

While the company has mostly done rehearsal dinners and wedding receptions, Yochum says that’s changing. “We’re starting to do more ceremonies, too. People are becoming more budget-conscious, wanting to keep everything at one venue.” If you decide to go that route, Yochum and his crew will help you find everything from an officiant and photographer to flowers and transportation.

For more information, call 843-722-1112 or visit charlestonharbortours.com.