Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chocolate Milk Charters?
Chocolate Milk Charters offers fully private luxury yacht charters in Charleston, SC aboard a 46-foot Regal Sport Coupe. Every charter is reserved exclusively for your group and customized to your preferences.
Is Chocolate Milk Charters a veteran-owned business?
Yes. Chocolate Milk Charters is proudly veteran-owned and operated. Owner and Captain Michael McKenzie is a U.S. Air Force veteran who served for many years, including service aboard Air Force One.
How many guests can the yacht accommodate?
Most charters accommodate up to 4 guests. We intentionally keep our group size small so every cruise feels personal, unhurried, and private. The one exception: bachelorette parties can accommodate up to 6 guests.
Is the yacht private or shared with other groups?
All charters are 100% private. You will never share the yacht with other guests or groups.
What makes Chocolate Milk Charters different from other Charleston boat tours?
Unlike many Charleston boat tours—such as sailing charters, open-console cruises, or fishing trips—Chocolate Milk Charters is an upscale, fully private yacht experience. The yacht is meticulously cleaned and prepared before every charter, and there are no scripted routes. Instead, your cruise is customized to your group’s pace and preferences—whether you want to sightsee, celebrate, swim, or simply relax in comfort on Charleston Harbor and the Intracoastal Waterway.
Is this a sightseeing tour or a private yacht experience?
This is a private yacht experience, not a traditional sightseeing tour. While you’ll enjoy views of Charleston’s landmarks, the focus is on a relaxed, personalized cruise designed around your group—not narration or fixed itineraries.
Is Chocolate Milk Charters good for couples or small groups?
Absolutely. With a maximum of 4 guests, we're designed for couples and small groups who want a private, comfortable, and intimate experience -- not a crowded tour boat.
Can I book a yacht charter in Charleston for a special occasion?
Yes. We regularly host birthdays, anniversaries, proposals, engagements, weddings, bachelorettes, reunions, corporate outings, and other meaningful celebrations. Every charter is customized to your occasion.
Tell us about the charter yacht.
Chocolate Milk is a 46-foot Regal Sport Coupe luxury yacht designed for comfort and smooth cruising. Amenities include two private staterooms, two full bathrooms with showers, air conditioning and heat, a wet bar, grill, microwave/convection oven, two refrigerators, a freezer, multiple flat-screen TVs, Bluetooth audio, and spacious indoor and outdoor seating with sunbathing areas.
Does the charter come with a first mate?
You have the option. You can add a dedicated first mate who assists with boarding, food and beverage service, and water activities. Or you can choose to cruise with just Captain Mike -- giving your group the entire yacht to yourselves. Without a first mate, you have full access to the galley, cooking utensils, grill, and wet bar to enjoy at your own pace. Many of our guests love this option for the ultimate private, unhurried experience.
Is alcohol provided, or is it BYOB?
Alcohol is BYOB. Guests may bring their own alcoholic beverages. Alcohol consumption is permitted only for guests 21 and over, in accordance with all local, state, and federal regulations. The first mate is happy to assist with serving beverages.
What additional items does Chocolate Milk provide?
We provide towels, bottled water, cooking and serving utensils, bug spray, sunscreen, Dramamine, a first-aid kit, life vests, and all required yacht safety equipment.
Is swimming allowed during the charter?
Yes. Swimming is allowed when weather and water conditions are safe and at the captain’s discretion.
How often is Chocolate Milk inspected for safety by the Coast Guard?
Captain Mike proactively schedules a U.S. Coast Guard safety inspection annually to ensure the yacht remains fully compliant with all safety requirements. Safety and maintenance are a top priority on every charter.
How much does a yacht charter cost?
Day and sunset cruises are $400/hour for up to 4 guests, plus taxes and fees. Wine tasting cruises are $425/hour. Every charter is fully private -- your group only.
Where do charters depart from?
Charters depart from St. John Yacht Harbor on Johns Island—about 10 minutes from Charleston. The address is 2408 Maybank Hwy, Johns Island, SC 29455. Plenty of parking is available, and we’re happy to meet you at your car and help carry your personal items (food, drinks, etc.) to the yacht slip. If the group’s driver plans to drink alcohol, we strongly recommend using Uber or Lyft so everyone can relax and enjoy the charter without worrying about driving.
Bachelorette Cruises
Do you offer bachelorette party cruises?
Yes! Bachelorette cruises are one of our most popular bookings. You get a private 46-foot luxury yacht with a dedicated first mate, BYOB, your own music, and a cruise through Charleston Harbor -- all with your closest girls. It's the perfect mix of upscale and fun without the crowded party boat vibe.
How many guests can join a bachelorette cruise?
Bachelorette parties can accommodate up to 6 guests -- our only exception to the standard 4-guest limit. Because some celebrations need the whole crew.
Can we add a wine tasting to our bachelorette cruise?
Absolutely. Our 3-hour wine tasting cruise is led by certified sommelier Latasha Tavelle. Your group will sample six curated wines while cruising Charleston Harbor at sunset. It's one of the most popular add-ons for bachelorette groups. All wines are available for purchase after the tasting.
Is the yacht private or shared with other groups?
All charters are 100% private. You will never share the yacht with other guests or groups.
Do bachelorette cruises include a first mate?
Yes, always. Every bachelorette cruise includes a dedicated first mate. With up to 6 guests aboard, your first mate handles drinks, assists with boarding and docking, keeps the music going, and makes sure everyone has what they need -- so the bride-to-be and her crew can focus on having fun. Captain Mike is at the helm, and your first mate takes care of everything else.
What should we bring to a bachelorette cruise?
Bring your own food, drinks, and decorations -- it's your yacht for the day. We provide towels, bottled water, utensils, sunscreen, bug spray, and a Bluetooth sound system for your playlist. Many bachelorette groups bring charcuterie boards, champagne, and matching outfits for photos.