Harbour Town: Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise

Harbour Town: Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise

Planning a relaxing Sunday morning in Hilton Head? This Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise aboard the Spirit of Harbour Town offers a unique way to enjoy the waterways, indulge in good food, and maybe catch a dolphin or two. We haven’t been on this cruise ourselves, but based on reviews and details, it sounds like a solid choice for anyone looking to combine a scenic boat ride with a tasty meal.

What we really like about this experience is how it manages to balance comfort and scenery. The indoor climate-controlled cabin with large windows makes for a cozy viewing spot, especially if the weather turns or you’re just looking to avoid the sun. The outside shaded deck offers a more open-air experience with views of the Calibogue Sound, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking up the peaceful Lowcountry vibe. Plus, the full cash bar and bottomless mimosas make it feel like a celebration without the hefty price tag, coming in at $83 per person.

A potential consideration is the limited buffet options noted in some reviews, with only bacon running out early and the overall menu being somewhat modest for the price. Also, access to the departure point involves some planning, as parking at Sea Pines Resort and Harbour Town isn’t included, and you’ll need to arrive about 30 minutes before departure.

This cruise seems best suited for those who value a relaxed atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and good service. It could be a lovely way to start a slow Sunday, celebrate a special occasion, or simply enjoy a peaceful morning on the water. Families, couples, or friends looking for a low-key outing will likely find plenty to enjoy here, especially if they’re fans of dolphin sightings and scenic views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Scenic Waterway Views: Perfect for relaxing and taking photos
• Delicious, Southern-Inspired Food: Buffet includes shrimp & grits, French toast, and more
• Comfortable Seating Options: Indoor climate-controlled or shaded outdoor decks
• Friendly Service and Narration: Captain’s commentary adds local insights
• Affordable Price Point: $83 includes buffet and bottomless drinks
• Potential Buffet Limitations: Limited meat options and some food running out early

What to Expect on the Harbour Town Sunday Brunch Cruise

When you arrive at Harbour Town’s iconic red-and-white-striped lighthouse, you’ll find the Vagabond Cruise fleet docked right in front. The departure point for the Spirit of Harbour Town is easy to locate, and boarding begins about 30 minutes before the scheduled cruise. Once aboard, you’ll be greeted and shown to your reserved seating, which could be either inside with panoramic windows or outside on the shaded upper deck.

The interior cabin provides a climate-controlled environment, making it an ideal spot if you want to stay cool or avoid the sun. The large windows allow for uninterrupted views of the surrounding waters and wildlife, which is a definite highlight, especially if dolphins decide to join the cruise. Outside on the shaded upper deck, you get a more open-air experience, perfect for enjoying the fresh breeze and spotting marine life.

The Brunch Menu

The chef-prepared buffet features a southern-inspired menu full of comfort foods. Expect fresh pastries, assorted muffins, and seasonal fruits, which are a great start to the meal. The star dishes include shrimp & grits with Tasso gravy, French toast casserole served with pure maple syrup, and apple smoked bacon that’s crispy and savory. The hash brown casserole adds a cheesy, golden touch, and scrambled eggs provide a light, fluffy option.

Travelers have appreciated the quality of the food, with at least one saying, “The brunch was well organized. The food was very hot and tastie. It was well worth the cost.” This suggests that the buffet is both plentiful and satisfying, especially considering the price.

Drinks and Atmosphere

For drinks, you can indulge in bottomless champagne mimosas or sparkling cider for just $10, which adds a celebratory feel without breaking the bank. The narration from the captain points out landmarks, wildlife, and gives a bit of local flavor, making the cruise more engaging.

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Wildlife and Scenery

One of the main perks of this cruise is the chance to see dolphins swimming alongside the boat. Though the scenery isn’t the most dramatic, the peaceful waters and occasional dolphin sightings make for a relaxing, enjoyable ride. As one reviewer put it, “The overall experience was enjoyable—a nice, slow ride that made for a relaxing morning.”

Why This Cruise Works Well

The combination of delicious food, attentive service, and scenic views creates a memorable experience. The price of $83 per person seems reasonable when you consider the buffet and drinks are included, along with the scenic cruise and narration. It offers good value, especially for travelers who want to enjoy a leisurely Sunday on the water without any rushing or overcrowding.

The small group size and personal table service add a layer of comfort, making it feel intimate rather than crowded. Plus, the inside and outside seating options cater to different preferences, whether you want to stay cool or enjoy the fresh air.

However, keep in mind that the buffet menu isn’t extensive—bacon runs out quickly, and there’s only one meat option. If you’re expecting a large, hearty breakfast with lots of choices, this might feel a bit limited. Also, parking and entry to Sea Pines Resort aren’t included, so plan accordingly to arrive early and make the most of your outing.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This brunch cruise appeals most to those who enjoy scenic waterway rides combined with good food. It’s great for couples wanting a romantic, leisurely start to their day, families looking for an easygoing outing, or groups celebrating a special occasion. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, especially dolphin watchers, this cruise offers a good shot at sightings, adding an extra layer of fun.

Given its relaxed pace and comfortable settings, it’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a low-pressure activity that combines scenic views with a hearty breakfast. If you’re in Hilton Head and want something more laid-back than a demanding tour but still want to see the waters and enjoy a tasty meal, this could be just right.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a perfect morning activity without taking up your entire day.

Is the brunch buffet worth the price?
Most reviews suggest the food is of good quality, well-organized, and satisfying, making it a decent value for the price. But keep expectations moderate, as options are somewhat limited.

Can I sit outside during the cruise?
Yes, the cruise offers outside shaded deck seating, which is ideal if you want to enjoy the breeze and better views.

Are drinks included?
Bottomless champagne mimosas and sparkling cider are available for an additional $10, and they are worth trying for the added celebratory touch.

Is there narration during the cruise?
Yes, the captain provides commentary on landmarks, wildlife, and local sights, adding an informative element to the scenic ride.

Is parking included?
No, parking at Sea Pines Resort and Harbour Town isn’t included, so plan to arrive early.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family activity, the cruise’s peaceful pace and scenic nature make it suitable for most travelers, though very young children might find it less engaging.

Final Thoughts

The Harbour Town Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise offers a charming way to start your Sunday in Hilton Head. The blend of delicious Southern-inspired food, scenic waterway views, and dolphin sightings creates a relaxed, enjoyable experience that doesn’t require a lot of effort. It’s particularly good for those who want to combine a meal with a scenic cruise in a comfortable setting.

While the buffet might not be extensive enough for some, the quality and atmosphere make up for it. The value for money is fair, especially when considering the drinks and narration included. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a peaceful morning outing, a celebration, or just a different way to experience Hilton Head’s waterways.

Overall, if you’re looking for a calm, scenic, and tasty way to enjoy your Sunday, this cruise could very well be worth your time—especially if you enjoy good service and a laid-back vibe.

References

Harbour Town: Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise

You can check availability for your dates here: