Hilton Head Island: Sunset Dinner Cruise

If you’re dreaming of a peaceful evening out on Hilton Head Island, a Sunset Dinner Cruise might just be the right pick. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, there’s plenty of glowing feedback and detailed info that help us understand what to expect. Essentially, it offers a lovely blend of scenic views, good food, and a relaxed atmosphere—a perfect way to end a day of exploring or simply unwind amid beautiful surroundings.

What really catches our eye are two things: first, the dinner menu prepared by award-winning chefs at the Sea Pines Resort—think fresh, tasty dishes that can satisfy a variety of tastes. Second, the opportunity to watch a spectacular sunset from the water, with chances to see dolphins gliding alongside the boat. That said, a small consideration is the parking situation, which can be tight during busy times, so arriving early is smart. This cruise seems ideally suited for those looking for a mellow, scenic experience—romantic couples, friends, or anyone wanting a taste of Hilton Head’s waterside ambiance.

Key Points

• Stunning Sunset Views: The cruise offers the chance to see the sun dip behind Harbour Town’s waters, creating perfect photo moments.
• Flexible Dining Options: Choose outdoor on the shaded deck or indoor with panoramic windows—great for different weather and comfort preferences.
• Dolphin Watching: Keep an eye out for dolphins that often make an appearance, adding a magical touch to your evening.
• Quality Food: Enjoy a thoughtfully curated 3-course meal, featuring options from fresh pasta primavera to mahi-mahi, with desserts like key lime pie or flourless chocolate torte.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: The cruise feels intimate and calming, with friendly service and a scenic route through Intracoastal waterways.
• Practical Details: It lasts about 2 hours, costs $106 per person, and includes gratuities but excludes drinks and transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Sunset Dinner Cruise

The experience begins at the Harbour Town docks, where you’ll board the Spirit of Harbor Town, a luxury vessel that balances comfort and elegance. Check-in is recommended about 45 minutes before departure, giving you time to settle in, especially since parking can be limited during busy afternoons. The boat itself is described as an older vessel, but reviews highlight that the ride remains smooth and enjoyable.

Once aboard, you’ll find two seating options: the shaded topside deck, perfect for unobstructed sunset views, or the climate-controlled interior cabin with large windows, ideal if you prefer a more sheltered setting. Throughout the cruise, a full-service bar is available (though drinks aren’t included), allowing you to sip on cocktails or soft drinks as you relax and take in the scenery.

The cruise begins in the late afternoon or early evening, timed perfectly to catch the sunset. As the sky changes color and the sun slips behind the horizon, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views over Harbour Town, with the lighthouse standing as a recognizable landmark. Many reviewers mention that the sunset over the water is truly beautiful, offering prime photo opportunities.

The Dining Experience: What’s on the Menu?

One of the highlights of this cruise is the three-course dinner. The menu is thoughtfully curated, starting with a fresh heirloom tomato panzanella salad to whet your appetite. For the main course, options include:

• Blackened mahi-mahi (fish)
• Roasted chicken breast
• Cider roasted pork loin
• A vegetarian/vegan fresca pasta primavera

Desserts are equally tempting, with choices like key lime pie or a flourless chocolate torte. The food consistently receives praise, with multiple reviews calling out the quality and flavors. One reviewer noted, “The dinner was top notch and our wait staff were exceptional,” which suggests attentive service and tasty dishes.

The meal is served at personal tables with steward service, providing a comfortable, almost private dining experience. Keep in mind, drinks are at your own expense, but there’s a full bar to choose from.

The Scenic Route and Marine Life

What makes this cruise stand out is its route through Intracoastal waterways, offering a perspective on Hilton Head Island that you simply can’t get from land. You’ll glide past lush marshes, sail under picturesque bridges, and enjoy the calm water reflections.

A bonus for many is the chance to see dolphins. Several guests have reported spotting dolphins during the cruise, adding a layer of magic to the experience. One review states, “We enjoyed seeing dolphins and the beautiful sunset,” which highlights how frequently marine life makes an appearance.

Even if you don’t see dolphins, the sunset itself tends to be a showstopper, with pastel skies and a peaceful ambiance that lingers long after the boat arrives back at harbor.

Practical Info: Tips and Considerations

While the cruise generally offers a lovely experience, a few practical tips can help you enjoy it even more. First, arrive early—ideally 45 minutes before departure—to check in comfortably, especially since parking can be limited in the afternoon. During busy periods, parking might take extra time, so plan accordingly.

The boarding process begins about 30 minutes before the cruise starts, and you can go directly to the boat with your boarding pass, whether digital or printed. Be mindful that there are about 10 steps to get onto the lower deck and an additional 10 to reach the upper deck, which could be a consideration if mobility is an issue.

The cruise runs in both afternoon and evening, giving you flexibility based on your schedule and preferred sunset times. The cost is $106 per person, which might seem steep for some, but when you consider the quality of food, scenery, and marine encounters, many find it a worthwhile splurge.

Included in the price are the cruise, the 3-course dinner, personal table service, and gratuities. However, drinks are not included, so bring cash if you want to purchase beverages from the bar.

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What People Are Saying

The consistent praise among reviews points to friendly, knowledgeable staff, delicious food, and amazing views. Several guests mention that it felt like a private cruise, with attentive service and a relaxed vibe. Even during less than perfect weather or cloudy nights, the cruise was described as “calm and enjoyable,” with some noting that dolphins appeared during their trip.

Some reviews mention minor drawbacks like parking issues or the boat’s age, but these seem to hardly detract from the overall positive sentiment. The experience appears to be very well-received, especially for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying a peaceful, scenic evening.

Is This Cruise Right for You?

In summary, the Hilton Head Sunset Dinner Cruise balances beautiful scenery, tasty food, and marine wildlife sightings. It’s suited for travelers who want a relaxing, upscale experience that combines nature and comfort. If you’re looking for a romantic outing, a memorable dinner, or just a serene way to appreciate Hilton Head’s waterways, this cruise checks all those boxes.

It might not appeal if you’re searching for an active adventure, or if you prefer a more casual or budget-friendly outing. For those who value good service, quality cuisine, and scenic views, this cruise is likely to deliver.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 2 hours, making it a perfect short but memorable outing without taking up your whole evening.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise itself, a 3-course meal, personal table and steward service, and gratuities. Drinks are extra.

Can I choose where to sit?
Yes. You can opt for outdoor shaded seating or indoor with panoramic windows, based on your preference or weather considerations.

Is parking an issue?
Parking can be limited during busy times, so arriving early is recommended. The check-in is 45 minutes before departure.

Are dolphins usually seen?
Many guests report dolphin sightings, though they are not guaranteed. The waters around Hilton Head are home to these playful creatures.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the calm atmosphere and scenic route make it suitable for most ages, especially those who appreciate relaxed outings.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic evening with good food and the chance to see Hilton Head’s beautiful sunset and marine life, this cruise offers excellent value. The friendly service, delicious menu, and stunning vistas make it a standout experience, especially for couples, friends, or anyone celebrating a special occasion.

Just remember to plan for parking and arrive early so you can fully relax and enjoy this memorable cruise. It’s an elegant way to see Hilton Head from a different perspective—calm, scenic, and delicious from start to finish.

You can check availability for your dates here: