Hilton Head Island’s Spirit of Harbour Town offers a unique dining experience that combines the natural beauty of the Lowcountry with a three-course culinary journey. This narrated cruise through the intracoastal waterways provides guests with the chance to spot playful dolphins while savoring a menu that showcases the flavors of the region. Whether you choose the climate-controlled indoor seating or the shaded outdoor seating, you’re in for a memorable evening that immerses you in the island’s rich history and captivating scenery. But the real question is, what delectable dishes await you on this unforgettable voyage?
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Dinner Experiences In Hilton Head Island.
Key Points
- A 3-course dinner cruise aboard the Spirit of Harbour Town that takes guests through the intracoastal waterways of Hilton Head Island.
- Opportunity to spot playful dolphins during the cruise.
- Lowcountry-themed menu with options like Mahi Mahi tacos, jerk chicken, and vegetarian tacos, along with dessert.
- Climate-controlled indoor seating and shaded outdoor seating available.
- Captain’s narration about local stories and history during the cruise.
Cruise Details
The 3-course dinner cruise aboard the Spirit of Harbour Town transports guests through the idyllic intracoastal waterways of Hilton Head Island in search of playful dolphins.
Passengers can dine on a Lowcountry-themed menu, prepared by award-winning chefs, at a private table on the upper or lower deck.
The climate-controlled indoor seating or shaded outdoor seating provides a comfortable setting to enjoy the narration by the captain, who shares local stories and history.
The bar serves wine, champagne, and cocktails, enhancing the relaxing ambiance.
With the cruise likely to sell out, guests are encouraged to reserve their spot now and take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Hilton Head Island.
Lowcountry-Themed Menu
A Lowcountry-themed menu provides guests with a delightful culinary experience during the 3-course dinner cruise.
The first course features a southwest Caesar salad, setting the stage for the mouthwatering main dishes to come.
These include:
- Mahi Mahi tacos, with their fresh and flavorful combination of fish, pico de gallo, and crema
- Jerk chicken with a sweet and spicy pineapple salsa
- Veggie tacos, catering to those with dietary preferences
All main dishes are served with rice, beans, and the traditional accompaniments of pico de gallo and crema.
To complete the meal, a raspberry coulis with fresh whipped cream is offered for dessert.
Dining Options
Guests can choose from private tables on the upper or lower decks to dine during the 3-course dinner cruise.
The climate-controlled indoor seating or shaded outdoor seating provides a comfortable setting to enjoy the Lowcountry-themed menu prepared by award-winning chefs.
Whether you opt for the upper or lower deck, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the scenic views of the intracoastal waterway as you search for dolphins.
The dining options are designed to enhance the overall experience, allowing you to savor the delicious cuisine while immersed in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Amenities Offered
Along With the dining options, the Hilton Head Island dolphin watching dinner cruise offers an array of other amenities to enhance the overall experience.
Guests can enjoy climate-controlled indoor seating or shaded outdoor seating, allowing them to comfortably take in the scenic views of the intracoastal waterway.
The cruise also features a bar serving a selection of wine, champagne, and cocktails, providing the opportunity to toast the occasion.
Throughout the journey, the captain provides narration about local stories and history, offering a captivating educational component to the cruise.
Additional amenities include:
- Climate-controlled indoor seating
- Shaded outdoor seating
- Bar serving wine, champagne, and cocktails
- Narration by the captain about local stories and history
Booking Information
Considering the popularity of this dolphin watching dinner cruise, it’s advisable to reserve tickets in advance, as they’re likely to sell out. This allows for flexibility in case plans change.
From $76.95 per person, guests can conveniently reserve now and pay later, with the added benefit of free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure.
The cruise departs from the Spirit of Harbour Town pier in front of the Lighthouse, so guests should arrive early to account for parking.
With its picturesque setting and unique dining experience, this Hilton Head Island cruise is in high demand, making it essential to secure tickets ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Meeting Point
The meeting point for the Hilton Head Island dolphin watching dinner cruise is the Vagabond Cruise reservation office located behind the Harbour Town Lighthouse.
Guests will board the cruise at the Spirit of Harbour Town pier in front of the Lighthouse, so it’s recommended to arrive early to account for parking in the area.
Some key details about the meeting point include:
- The reservation office is the starting point for the cruise experience
- The Spirit of Harbour Town pier is the exact boarding location
- Guests should plan to arrive early to secure parking near the Lighthouse
- The cruise will depart on time, so it’s important to arrive at the meeting point with enough time to check in
Parking Availability
Parking around the Harbour Town Lighthouse is typically limited, especially during peak visitor times.
Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot in one of the nearby lots or garages to ensure a seamless start to their dolphin watching dinner cruise experience.
The main parking garage is located just a short walk from the Spirit of Harbour Town pier, where guests will board the cruise. Additional parking can also be found at the shops and restaurants in Harbour Town.
While there may be some competition for prime spots, arriving with ample time will help guests avoid any delays and allow them to relax and fully enjoy the upcoming 3-course dinner cruise.
About the Cruise
Once guests have secured their parking, they’ll board the Spirit of Harbour Town for a delightful 3-course dinner cruise through the intracoastal waters of Hilton Head Island. The vessel offers both climate-controlled indoor seating and shaded outdoor seating, allowing passengers to choose their preferred dining environment as they embark on their dolphin watching adventure.
The Lowcountry-themed menu, prepared by award-winning chefs, features a variety of options, including Mahi Mahi tacos, jerk chicken with pineapple salsa, and vegetarian tacos.
Guests can enjoy a selection of wine, champagne, and cocktails from the onboard bar as they listen to the captain’s narration about local stories and history.
After the main course, diners can indulge in a delectable dessert of raspberry coulis with fresh whipped cream.
A kids menu is also available for the little ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Life Jackets Provided for the Cruise?
Life jackets are typically provided for safety on cruises. Passengers can expect to have access to life jackets for the duration of the dinner cruise, in case they are needed. The cruise operator ensures appropriate safety measures are in place.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
No, guests are not allowed to bring their own food or drinks on the cruise. The cruise offers a full 3-course dinner menu prepared by award-winning chefs, as well as a bar serving wine, champagne, and cocktails.
Is There a Dress Code for the Cruise?
There’s no strict dress code for the cruise, but it’s recommended to wear casual, comfortable attire. Guests should avoid overly formal wear, as the setting is relaxed and focused on enjoying the dining and cruising experience.
Do They Accommodate Dietary Restrictions?
The cruise accommodates a variety of dietary restrictions. Guests can specify any food allergies or preferences, and the chefs will prepare suitable dishes. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.
How Long Is the Cruise Duration?
The cruise duration is typically 2-3 hours. Guests can enjoy the leisurely cruise through the intracoastal waterways, savor the 3-course dinner, and have the chance to spot dolphins along the way.
Recap
The Spirit of Harbour Town dinner cruise offers a unique opportunity to enjoy Hilton Head Island’s natural beauty.
With a Lowcountry-inspired menu, climate-controlled or outdoor seating, and a knowledgeable captain’s narration, this cruise provides a memorable dining experience while spotting playful dolphins in the intracoastal waterways.
It’s a fantastic way to explore the island’s history and local culture.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Dining Experiences in Hilton Head Island
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