america's cup sailboat hilton head

Stars & Stripes

Pubic cruise offerings.

Now this is sailing! Only on Hilton Head and only in Harbour Town can you sail aboard a real America's Cup, 12 meter Stars & Stripes!

  • Save $20 Book before October 31st
  • Clock 2 Hours
  • Cruise Ship Stars & Stripes
  • $20 SAVINGS

Sunset Sail

Watch the sunset while aboard our 12-meter yacht. These stunning views are unrivaled.

  • Save $15 Book before October 31st
  • Clock 1.5 Hours
  • $15 SAVINGS

Afternoon Sail

Spend a relaxing afternoon aboard our 12-meter yacht.

Power Traveller

Hilton Head Island: America’s Cup Sailing Yacht Cruise

Hilton Head Island, a picturesque coastal destination, offers an unforgettable opportunity to sail on the iconic Stars & Stripes yacht , which competed in the 1980 America’s Cup . This 1.5-hour cruise invites adventurers to step aboard and enjoy the rich history and thrill of sailing, all while soaking in stunning views of Calibogue Sound and the chance to spot local wildlife . Guided by an experienced crew, guests can learn hands-on sailing techniques and gain insights into the island’s natural wonders. With its blend of excitement, education, and breathtaking scenery, this unique sailing experience promises to leave a lasting impression on those seeking an adventure beyond the ordinary.

Hilton Head Island: America's Cup Sailing Yacht Cruise - Key Points

  • Sail aboard the iconic Stars & Stripes yacht, a 12-meter vessel designed for the 1980 America’s Cup.
  • Experience a 1.5-hour sailing cruise led by an experienced crew, with opportunities to spot dolphins and admire scenic views.
  • Participate in hands-on sailing instruction, learning techniques like hoisting sails and trimming sheets.
  • Enjoy on-board amenities, including a bar offering drinks and snacks, as well as souvenir merchandise.
  • Take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and a live tour guide for a seamless experience.

More tours and experiences nearby.

  • 2-Hour Hilton Head Guided Kayak Nature Tour
  • Hilton Head Island Dolphin Boat Cruise
  • Beaufort’s #1 Horse & Carriage History Tour
  • Daufuskie Island Guided History Tour From Hilton Head

Sailing on the Stars & Stripes Yacht

Hilton Head Island: America's Cup Sailing Yacht Cruise - Sailing on the Stars & Stripes Yacht

During the Hilton Head Island Yacht Cruise , passengers embark on an exhilarating journey aboard the iconic 12-meter Stars & Stripes yacht .

Designed by renowned sailor Dennis Conner for the 1980 America’s Cup, this legendary vessel offers a unique sailing experience.

Led by experienced crew , you will learn sailing techniques and have the opportunity to assist with the yacht’s operation.

As they cruise around Hilton Head Island, guests can keep an eye out for dolphins and take in the stunning views of Calibogue Sound .

Whether actively involved or simply relaxing, passengers are sure to enjoy this immersive nautical adventure.

Duration and Pricing

The Hilton Head Island Yacht Cruise offers a 1.5-hour sailing experience for visitors, priced from $52.95 per person.

Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The cruise provides a live tour guide available in English, allowing participants to learn about sailing techniques from the experienced crew.

Visitors can assist the crew or simply relax and admire the scenic views of Hilton Head Island and Calibogue Sound.

Drinks and merchandise are available for purchase on board, making it a well-rounded and inclusive sailing adventure.

Cancellation Policy and Tour Guide

Hilton Head Island: America's Cup Sailing Yacht Cruise - Cancellation Policy and Tour Guide

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for guests who need to change their plans. This provides flexibility for travelers’ schedules.

On top of that, the sailing experience is guided by a live tour guide , available in English. This ensures guests receive:

  • Engaging narration about the yacht’s history and sailing techniques.
  • Insights into the local wildlife and scenery of Hilton Head Island.
  • Friendly assistance from the knowledgeable crew throughout the cruise.

The combination of a lenient cancellation policy and a skilled tour guide creates a seamless and enjoyable sailing adventure for all participants.

Highlights of the Cruise

Guests can expect an afternoon of sailing bliss as they cruise around the picturesque Hilton Head Island on the 12-meter Stars & Stripes yacht.

They’ll learn sailing techniques from the experienced crew and keep an eye out for dolphins as they admire the stunning views of Calibogue Sound.

Guests can choose to assist the crew or simply relax and enjoy the ride.

Beverages and merchandise are available for purchase on board, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

With the opportunity to soak in the sea breeze and immerse in the thrill of sailing, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure for all.

Sailing Techniques and Crew Interaction

Experienced crew members eagerly teach guests the fundamentals of sailing during the 1.5-hour cruise. Passengers have the opportunity to assist the crew and learn various sailing techniques.

This hands-on experience includes:

  • Instruction on how to hoist the sails and trim the sheets to catch the wind.
  • Guidance on steering the 12-meter Stars & Stripes yacht and adjusting the rudder.
  • Explanations of nautical terminology and the yacht’s inner workings.

The crew’s expertise and enthusiasm ensure guests leave with a greater appreciation for the art of sailing.

Their interactive approach enhances the overall experience, making it an enjoyable and educational outing for all.

Wildlife and Scenic Views

As the yacht glides smoothly through the waters, passengers are treated to a stunning array of wildlife and breathtaking scenery. Calibogue Sound, located between Hilton Head Island and Daufuskie Island, is home to a diverse ecosystem teeming with marine life. Guests may catch glimpses of playful dolphins surfacing nearby or graceful herons soaring overhead. The lush, verdant shoreline provides a picturesque backdrop, offering a peaceful respite from the everyday.

Wildlife Spotted Scenic Views
Dolphins Calibogue Sound
Herons Hilton Head Island Shoreline
Osprey Daufuskie Island
Sea Turtles Lowcountry Marshes

The serene cruise allows passengers to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the region, creating lasting memories of their sailing adventure.

On-Board Amenities

The cruise offers a range of on-board amenities to enhance the sailing experience . Passengers can enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks from the on-board bar, including beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options.

Plus, the crew provides an opportunity to purchase souvenirs and merchandise, allowing guests to commemorate their sailing adventure.

On top of that, the cruise caters to the needs of all passengers, providing comfortable seating and shaded areas to relax and take in the stunning views of Hilton Head Island and the surrounding waterways .

  • On-board bar offering drinks and snacks
  • Souvenir and merchandise selection
  • Comfortable seating and shaded areas

Meeting and Boarding Details

Passengers must arrive at the local partner’s office 45 minutes before departure for check-in, located below Harbour Town Lighthouse. Parking can be limited during afternoon hours, so it’s recommended to arrive early. Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to departure, and a mobile or printed boarding pass is required.

Arrival Time Check-In Location Boarding Time Parking
45 minutes before departure Below Harbour Town Lighthouse 30 minutes before departure Limited during afternoon hours

Visitors staying outside of the Sea Pines Resort will need to pay a $9 cash-only fee to enter the resort.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

  • Hilton Head Pirate Ship Adventure Sail Aboard the Black Dagger
  • 2-Hour Private Hilton Head Sunset Cruise
  • History and Movie Tour of Beaufort by Golf Cart
  • Hilton Head Island Guided Water Tour by Creek Cat Boat
  • 2-Hour Private Hilton Head Dolphin Watching Cruise
  • Hilton Head Shrimp Trawling Boat Cruise

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i bring my own food and drinks on board.

While the cruise provides food and drinks for purchase, it does not allow guests to bring their own. Passengers are expected to consume only the items provided or purchased on board during the sailing experience.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Children?

There is no minimum age requirement for children on this sailing tour. However, the activity may not be suitable for very young children, as the crew cannot provide one-on-one supervision. Parental discretion is advised.

Are Life Jackets Provided, and Are They Mandatory?

Life jackets are provided and mandatory for all participants on the sailing cruise. The experienced crew ensures the safety of guests by requiring life jackets to be worn at all times during the 1.5-hour excursion.

Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Cruise?

Yes, guests are encouraged to take photos and videos during the cruise. The experienced crew is happy to assist in capturing memorable moments of the sailing experience.

Do I Need to Tip the Crew, and if So, How Much?

Yes, tipping the crew is customary. The suggested tip amount is 15-20% of the total cruise cost. This helps recognize the crew’s efforts in providing an excellent sailing experience.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

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  • Hilton Head Island: Dolphin Watching Guided Tour by Boat
  • Hilton Head Island: Pirate Cruise on the Black Dagger
  • Daufuskie Island Round Trip Ferry
  • Hilton Head Island: Guided Kayak Tour With Coffee
  • Hilton Head Island: Sunset Dolphin Watching Tour
  • Hilton Head Island: Shrimp Trawling Boat Tour
  • Hilton Head Island: Daufuskie Island Ferry Roundtrip Ticket
  • Hilton Head Island: 1.5-Hour Guided Small-Group Kayak Tour
  • Hilton Head Island: Sunset Dolphin Cruise
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  • Hilton Head Island: Dolphin Watching Cruise With Donuts
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  • Hilton Head: Half-Day Electric Bike Rental Options
  • Lowcountry Lunch Buffet Cruise

Sailing on the Stars & Stripes yacht offers an unforgettable experience on Hilton Head Island. Guests can learn sailing techniques from the experienced crew while enjoying stunning views of Calibogue Sound and the chance to spot dolphins. With a live tour guide providing insights, this immersive adventure promises an exciting and memorable day on the water.