🚢 The Experience & Captain

Q: Who will be our captain, and what are their qualifications?

A: Every charter is led by Captain Ben Stickney, a USCG Licensed Master Captain (100 Ton) with professional endorsements for sail, power, and commercial towing. A graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and a former Navy fighter pilot, Captain Ben also holds Class D offshore skipper credentials and is a NauticEd Level V Master Instructor for powerboats and sailboats.

Whether you're booking a relaxing sunset cruise or advanced sailing lessons, you are in the hands of one of the most highly credentialed captains in South Carolina.

Q: Do we need boating experience to book a charter?

A: No. All of our Lake Murray tours are fully captained. You don't need any prior boating or sailing experience; your only job is to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Q: Can beginners book boating or sailing lessons?

A: Yes! Pilot Cove Ventures is a premier spot for Lake Murray sailing lessons. We offer instruction for all levels, from basic powerboat handling to advanced training for international sailing credentials. 

Q: Do you offer training for international yacht licenses?

A: Yes. If you have dreams of captaining a yacht in the Mediterranean or anywhere across the globe, we provide the training and verification required to earn your Sailing License and Credentials (SLC) or Power License (SLC(P)). Contact us to discuss your goals, and we will help you map out your path to international captaining status.

🧺 Food, Drinks, & Amenities

Q: What is included in a charter, and can we bring our own drinks?

A: Every tour comes with a complimentary Charcuterie Board or Snackle Box, along with sparkling water, spring water, and sodas. We are a BYOB-friendly charter with no restrictions; guests are welcome to bring their own alcoholic beverages and snacks to enjoy while out on Lake Murray.

Q: Is there a bathroom or changing area on the boats?

A: Our Catalina 30 sailboat is equipped with a full onboard bathroom and a private changing area, which is perfect for sunset photo shoots. While our center console powerboat does not have a restroom, we are never far from shore and can typically return guests to a Lake Murray dock quickly if needed.

Q: Can we play our own music during the charter?

A: Absolutely. Our vessels feature Bluetooth-enabled sound systems, allowing you to set the perfect soundtrack for your Lake Murray adventure.

Q: What should we bring on our Lake Murray charter?

A: We suggest bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and any personal beverages you'd like. We provide towels, non-alcoholic drinks, and light snacks.

🐾 Family & Pet Policies

Q: Are dogs allowed on the boat?

A: We love our four-legged sailors! Dogs are welcome on all private charters on Lake Murray. Please note that pets are not permitted on shared group tours to ensure the comfort of all guests. If you are booking a private excursion, please let us know in advance so we can ensure the vessel is prepared for your pet. 🐾

Q: Is this a good experience for kids or first-time boaters?

A: Definitely. We are a family-favorite for Lake Murray activities. We provide USCG-approved life jackets for all ages and ensure every guest feels safe and comfortable on the water.

Q: What is the maximum group size?

A: To keep the experience premium and private, we limit groups to six people per boat. For larger parties wanting to explore Lake Murray, we can often coordinate multiple vessels; please contact us for details.

📅 Bookings, Pricing, & Logistics

Q: How much does a private boat charter on Lake Murray cost?

A: Pricing depends on the boat type, group size, and tour length. You can find our current Lake Murray boat rental rates on our Tours & Pricing page. Custom itineraries are available by request.

Q: Where do your boat charters depart from?

A: Most of our trips depart from the Chapin area or near the Dreher Shoals Dam. Depending on the charter and your location, custom Lake Murray dock pickup may be available for an additional fee.

Q: What is your cancellation and weather policy?

A: Safety is our priority. If we cancel due to unsafe weather conditions on Lake Murray, you receive a full refund or a reschedule. For guest-initiated cancellations: Outside of 14 days, you receive a full refund or reschedule. Between 14 days and 48 hours, you receive a 50% refund or a full credit to reschedule. Inside of 48 hours, there is no refund available for customer cancellations.

📸 Special Events & Seasonal Tours

Q: Do you offer photo shoots or support film projects?

A: Yes. We regularly host professional photography, documentaries, and film projects on the water. The sailboat’s private cabin is ideal for outfit changes, and we can recommend local photographers who specialize in Lake Murray photography.

Q: When is the best time for a Lake Murray boat tour?

A: We operate year-round! While many operators close during the off-season, we continue to run charters and boating instruction every month of the year. Summer is popular for swimming and sunset cruises, while our winter outings feature hot coffee and cider. Don't forget our seasonal Purple Martin migration tours to Bomb Island in July and August! 🌅🐦



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Explore 600 miles of shoreline.

Pilot Cove Ventures helped me discover a love of boating and appreciation of Lake Murray that I never had before this boat tour.

Sheila E.

As a new Lake Murray resident, Pilot Cove was super helpful with a full lake tour and education about the region and boating in South Carolina.

Jack S.

I learned how to race a sailboat from the Pilot Cove team, and I never dreamed that would be possible for me.

Jayne O.