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Fort Sumter National Monument ferry timings and schedule

Today

Open 08:30–16:30

Last Admission

16:30

Fort Sumter

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Fort Sumter Tours operates on a seasonal schedule, with multiple departures daily from both Liberty Square and Patriots Point. Your visit duration is typically 2–2.5 hours, including the boat ride and about an hour at the fort. Always check your ticket and the latest schedule before your visit, as times can vary by season and day.

Jan 1 TO Dec 31 Timings

Days (Jan 1 TO Dec 31)

TIMINGS

Last Admission

Monday08:30–16:3016:30
Tuesday08:30–16:3016:30
Wednesday08:30–16:3016:30
Thursday08:30–16:3016:30
Friday08:30–16:3016:30
Saturday (Today)08:30–16:3016:30
Sunday08:30–16:3016:30
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Regular Hours: Tours generally run daily, with the first departure mid-morning and the last in the mid-to-late afternoon. Exact times shift seasonally—check the current schedule before booking.

Last Entry: The last access to Fort Sumter is via the final scheduled boat of the day; there is no independent walk-up entry.

Special Hours/Closures: Tours may be canceled or rescheduled due to severe weather (storms, lightning, high winds) or occasional holiday adjustments. Always confirm your departure time and monitor for weather updates, especially during stormy seasons.

How long should you spend at Fort Sumter?

Aerial view of Fort Sumter National Monument in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina.

A typical visit to Fort Sumter lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours from start to finish. This includes a 30-minute ferry ride each way and approximately 1 hour to explore the fort.

Arriving early ensures a smooth boarding process and gives you time to settle in before departure. Since the visit follows a fixed ferry schedule, late arrivals may miss their departure and need to reschedule.

Frequently asked questions about Fort Sumter timings

Ferries typically begin departures in the mid-morning, around 9:30am, though exact times vary by season. Always check your ticket for the confirmed schedule.