Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise

If you’re eyeing a relaxed evening in Charleston that combines scenic harbor views, good food, and some soulful tunes, the Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise might catch your interest. This tour promises a laid-back experience on the water, with a hearty barbecue buffet and live blues performances. It’s a popular choice for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a peaceful yet entertaining way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

What we particularly like about this experience is the chance to see Charleston from the water—something that offers a fresh perspective of the city’s skyline and natural beauty. Plus, the BBQ buffet featured in the cruise is pretty straightforward but satisfying, especially if you’re craving classic American barbecue flavors. The live music adds a convivial touch, setting a relaxed, festive atmosphere onboard.

However, it’s worth mentioning that the cruise has its share of downsides. The reviews reveal some inconsistencies in food quality and sound levels, and a few travelers have expressed concern about organization and accessibility. So, if you’re looking for a perfectly polished, high-end experience, this cruise might be more of an okay, casual outing rather than a standout.

All in all, this cruise suits travelers who want a simple, fun way to enjoy Charleston’s waters, especially if you’re okay with some imperfections. It’s ideal for those looking to combine scenic views, good company, and a relaxed vibe into one evening.

Key Points

• Great for relaxed evenings with scenic harbor views and live blues.
• Includes a barbecue buffet, with classic dishes like pulled pork and smoked chicken.
• Offers a lively, friendly atmosphere with onboard live music.
• Price point of $72 offers decent value considering the experience.
• Potential drawbacks include inconsistent food quality and limited accessibility.
• Ideal for casual outings, date nights, or groups wanting to enjoy Charleston from the water.

What to Expect on the Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise

When you decide to hop aboard the Charleston Princess at the Charleston Maritime Center, you’re setting out for a 2.5-hour cruise designed to showcase the beauty of Charleston at sunset. The timing is perfect—departing around 7:00 pm—so you can enjoy the changing sky and cool breezes as evening approaches.

The Boarding Process and Vessel

Most travelers find the check-in process straightforward, with most comments about how quick and easy it is. The boat itself is spacious enough to accommodate up to 150 guests comfortably, although capacity can be limited further based on weather conditions or other considerations.

The vessel has multiple decks, with most of the reviews noting that accessibility can be a concern. One reviewer highlighted that the boat isn’t handicap accessible, citing stairs and lack of accessible toilets. If accessibility is important, this is something to keep in mind.

The Route and Views

Once underway, you’ll cruise into Charleston Harbor, giving you a chance to see the Ravenel Bridge and the city’s waterfront skyline bathed in sunset hues. Many reviews praise the views, especially the moonrise, which adds a magical touch. The overall scenery is calming, with plenty of photo opportunities for capturing the glowing sky and cityscape.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The highlight onboard is the live blues music, performed by local musicians. The music creates a laid-back, friendly vibe, perfect for unwinding. Some reviews mention that the sound might not reach all decks equally—it’s best to be near the band if you want to fully enjoy the music.

The atmosphere is lively but not rowdy—ideal for a mellow evening or a romantic outing. A few guests noted that sometimes the band’s volume or sound quality could be inconsistent, but overall, the musical performance is a definite plus for the cruise.

The Food Experience

Now, let’s talk about the barbecue buffet. The menu features familiar favorites like pulled pork, smoked chicken, and vegetarian options, along with salads and sides. Many reviewers found the food decent, with some describing it as “really good” and others calling it “okay.” One reviewer commented that the BBQ lacked flavor and was somewhat bland, which aligns with the overall mixed reviews.

You can purchase drinks from the onboard cash bar—most guests find the prices reasonable for a boat setting, but some mention that drinks are watered down or on the pricier side. Notably, some reviews complain about the food being served without water or beverages to balance the spices, which could be an oversight.

The Overall Experience and Group Size

The cruise is designed as a fun, casual activity—perfect for date nights and small groups. The maximum number of travelers is around 150, which keeps the atmosphere intimate enough to relax but still lively. Some reviews describe it as an excellent way to kick off an evening in Charleston or to enjoy a peaceful, scenic ride.

Accessibility and Practicalities

One review explicitly states that the cruise isn’t handicap accessible, with stairs and no accessible toilets onboard. So, travelers with mobility concerns should weigh this. Parking is paid and available nearby, and while the check-in process is straightforward, some mention the importance of arriving early to secure good seats.

Cost and Value

At $72 per person, the cruise offers a reasonable price for a 2.5-hour scenic water tour with dinner and live music. Many feel it’s a good value for the experience—especially considering the views and entertainment. However, some felt that the food and drinks could have been better, so for those who prioritize gourmet cuisine, this might not hit the mark.

How Reviews Reflect the Experience

Looking at the feedback from previous travelers, we see a mix of glowing compliments and honest critiques. A favorite aspect is often the views of the sunset and moonrise, with phrases like “the sunset view was great” and “the full moon over the water was amazing.” Many guests appreciate the friendly staff and the relaxed atmosphere.

On the flip side, some reviews express disappointment regarding food quality—calling it “mediocre” or “bland”—and highlight that the live music sometimes isn’t as loud or clear as hoped. A few mention logistical issues like a boat change just before sailing, impacting the overall experience.

Notable Positive Comments:

• “The sunset cruise was an amazing experience.”
• “The food was really good and staff was nice.”
• “The band was pretty good and the service was friendly.”
• “Very relaxing cruise, perfect for unwinding.”

Common Concerns:

• Food being average or underwhelming.
• Sound levels for the band and music not reaching all parts of the boat.
• Accessibility limitations.
• Occasional organizational hiccups, such as boat changes or poor communication.

The Sum Up: Is This Cruise Worth It?

If you’re after a casual, scenic experience that combines the beauty of Charleston’s harbor with some laid-back entertainment, this cruise is a solid choice. It’s especially well-suited for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed night out without fuss. The views are lovely, and the live blues music adds to the charm, even if the sound quality isn’t perfect.

The BBQ buffet is satisfying enough for a casual meal, and the price makes it accessible for most. Keep in mind that the experience might be uneven—some guests find the food mediocre and the organization lacking at times—but the overall vibe tends to be positive. If you’re okay with some imperfections and want a straightforward, enjoyable water tour, this cruise could be just right.

However, if top-tier cuisine, accessibility, or a highly polished experience are priorities, you might want to explore other options. Still, for a relaxed evening soaking in Charleston’s beauty, this cruise offers a memorable, if sometimes imperfect, outing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking available at the departure point?
Yes, paid parking is available at the Charleston Maritime Center, close to the boarding location.

What time does the cruise start?
Boarding begins at 7:00 pm, and the cruise lasts approximately 2.5 hours, offering sunset views.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, making it suitable for families with kids who can enjoy the scenery and music.

Can I buy drinks onboard?
Yes, drinks are available for purchase at the cash bar. Be aware that some reviews mention drinks can be watered down or pricey.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the cruise isn’t handicap accessible. There are stairs and no accessible toilets onboard, so plan accordingly.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes the harbor cruise, live blues music, and the barbecue buffet. Taxes and fees are also covered.

What if the weather’s bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are pets allowed onboard?
Service animals are permitted, but other pets are not mentioned, so it’s best to check directly with the provider.

How busy does it get?
It can host up to 150 travelers, making it a lively but not overcrowded experience, suited for groups seeking a relaxed vibe.

If you’re curious about combining this cruise with other Charleston experiences, check out options like carriage tours, plantation visits, or historic walks—many of which are nearby and enrich your trip. This sunset cruise is a laid-back way to enjoy the city’s harbor, especially if you’re okay with some minor imperfections and want to relax with good company and scenic views.