The Schnooer Pride hosts Charleston-area locals and tourists alike on sunset cruises around the Charleston Harbor.

6:00 PM, Having Just Boarded the Schooner Pride:

All is right in the world aboard The Schooner Pride at the end of April in Charleston, South Carolina--seagulls gawking in the wind, the waves bristling about below, the sound of rope to hand as crew members hurriedly scatter about the vessel, dolphins gracefully playing a game of hide-and-go-seek with those aboard the boat, the smell of simply sweet miniature waffles, and the subtle murmur of fellow passengers flowing in both ears--life doesn't get any better than this.

I realize why sea captains of old deemed Charleston "The Holy City," as steeples tower over the flatscape of the peninsula. The Sullivan's Island Lighthouse, The Ravenel Bridge, and The U.S.S. Yorktown are too in plain sight. The vessel twists and turns about the harbor so that passengers on both sides of the boat find delight in the sight of each-and-every landmark visible from the water of the Charleston Harbor.

8:00 PM, Nearing the Docks of the Aquarium Wharf:

As the sun sets behind the steeple-ridden skyline, I can't help but find beauty in the notion that I am from such an incredible city. From the angles provided by the boat-view of the city, Charleston isn't too big, and it isn't too small. It's just the right size. Suddenly, traffic and the honking of horns in the suburbs isn't bothering me, and the plight of parking downtown isn't so bad either. The Holy City is quite literally holy and lovely. Lovely? I know, my word choice seems like a cliche description of a cityscape that deserves more of a grandiose, pompously southern response. But, this isn't Southern Charm, so I have chosen the word "lovely." Because, perhaps, such a description is simply Charleston. She is lovely. I can't bring myself to post to Instagram or stand to snap a photograph with my friends at this moment. I take it in. I admire the scenery around me. I become one with the subtle ripple of the waves around me. I am at peace.

8:30 PM, Walking Down the Gangplank in Thought:

The Schooner Pride, a mere sailing vessel, overtakes my perspective of the city, I have taken my home for granted. I am disembarking from the boat acutely aware of my surroundings. My friends and I stroll past the tree-lined epicenter of the South Carolina Aquarium and swiftly cross East Bay Street. Even the parking garage is "nice" when compared to such facilities elsewhere. I am suddenly overflowing with gratitude for the All-America City.

Today, In Reflection:

One week later, the impact of my voyage still lingers overtop my heart. From one wanderer to another, this sunset sail, The Schooner Pride, will not disappoint anyone with whom she encounters.

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