Hilton Head Island: Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise

Imagine cruising along Hilton Head’s calm waters, a gentle breeze brushing your face, while you enjoy a hearty Southern seafood feast. That’s exactly what this Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise offers — a two-hour journey blending scenic views, authentic flavors, and a laid-back atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a relaxed evening after a day of exploring, this cruise is designed to give you a taste of real Lowcountry hospitality.

What we love about this experience is the casual yet memorable vibe, and the chance to indulge in local shrimp and smoked sausage straight from South Carolina waters. We also appreciate the complimentary drinks, which add a celebratory touch without pushing the price beyond reason. One thing to consider is that the seating is limited, so booking in advance is highly recommended — this isn’t a large cruise, but an intimate experience. Overall, it’s perfect for couples, families, or groups wanting a relaxed, delicious, scenic night out with a genuine Southern twist.

Key Points

• Authentic Lowcountry cuisine: Enjoy a seafood boil with local shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes.
• Relaxed, intimate environment: Spacious seating and shaded areas create a laid-back vibe.
• Included drinks: Two complimentary drinks (wine, beer, or soft drinks) enhance the experience.
• Limited capacity: Advance booking is essential due to small group sizes.
• Ideal for special occasions or casual outings: Perfect for celebrating or just unwinding.
• Great scenic views: Enjoy the golden hour and water vistas while dining.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of the Experience

This 2-hour evening cruise on the Bonjour, a vessel that’s both spacious and shaded, sets the scene for a relaxed Lowcountry evening. The cruise departs from Hilton Head Island, with the meeting point conveniently located at the long wooden pier, where the floating Island Head check-in building awaits. Once aboard, you’ll quickly realize this isn’t a large, bustling tour — it’s more of an intimate gathering with a focus on good food, good drinks, and great scenery.

The Itinerary and What Makes It Special

The main event happens when the seafood boil is served. The hot, fresh meal features local shrimp, smoked sausage, corn on the cob, and red potatoes—a classic Lowcountry combination. The seafood is described as local, meaning you’re getting a taste of the region’s bounty, which adds authenticity.

Sailing during the golden hour means you’ll be treated to beautiful water views, with plenty of opportunities for photos, not to mention the chance to relax in a shaded area on the boat. The spacious seating ensures comfort, even if the boat isn’t packed—an important detail for anyone who values a relaxed environment over cramped spaces.

Drinks and Atmosphere

You’ll receive two complimentary drinks, which can be wine, beer, or soft drinks. This small touch makes a big difference, especially when toasting to a beautiful sunset or just unwinding after a day in the sun. The friendly, casual atmosphere aboard Bonjour encourages conversation and a relaxed pace, making it suitable for couples, families, or small groups.

Food Quality and Authenticity

The food is described as hot and fresh, served directly from the kitchen to your plate, providing a true taste of the South. Reviewers often mention how satisfying the seafood and sausage are, and that the corn and potatoes perfectly round out the meal. Since the meal is served hot, the experience feels more like dining at a local gathering than a formal sit-down dinner.

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Why It’s Worth Considering

This cruise offers great value for those wanting to enjoy a local culinary experience without the hassle of hunting down restaurants. The price of $118 per person reflects the inclusion of the meal, drinks, and scenic cruise, making it a reasonably priced way to spend a memorable evening.

However, because of the limited capacity and the popularity of this experience, advance booking is essential—especially as it starts in June 2025 and runs every Wednesday and Friday. Flexibility in booking and cancellation (full refunds if canceled 24 hours in advance) adds peace of mind.

Who Would Love This?

This cruise is ideal for romantic couples, families with older children, or anyone eager for a casual, scenic, and tasty night out. It’s less suited for those seeking a more formal dining experience or larger group tours, but perfect for anyone who appreciates authentic regional flavors and a laid-back vibe.

Detailed Breakdown of the Cruise Experience

Boarding and Departure

The process is straightforward. You’ll head down the long wooden pier to the floating white building where check-in takes place. Arriving early is wise to avoid any last-minute rush. Once aboard the Bonjour, you’ll find spacious seating and shaded areas, creating a comfortable environment to relax and enjoy the views.

The Scenic Voyage

The cruise generally takes place during the evening, making the golden hour an ideal time to enjoy the scenery. The water reflects the sunset, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some dolphins or other wildlife. The calm waters of Hilton Head provide a gentle backdrop, making the experience peaceful and photogenic.

The Meal

Serving a traditional Lowcountry Boil, the meal is a true reflection of regional cuisine. The seafood is local, and the sausage is smoked, adding to the authentic flavor. The corn on the cob and red potatoes help soak up the seasoning, providing a hearty, satisfying meal.

Guests have described the food as “hot and fresh” and “a real taste of the South.” The portion sizes are generous enough to satisfy most appetites, and the casual atmosphere encourages you to linger over your food.

Drinks and Toasting

The two included drinks are a great touch, especially if you’re celebrating or just want to unwind. Some reviews note that the drinks are well-chosen and add to the festive mood. Remember, any additional drinks beyond the included ones are not included, so plan accordingly if you want more beverages.

Atmosphere and Group Size

With an emphasis on intimacy, the cruise keeps capacity small, which enhances the chance for friendly interactions and personalized service. The boat’s design ensures shaded seating areas, shielding guests from sun or rain, and fostering a laid-back vibe.

Analyzing the Value

At $118 per person, this cruise offers a well-rounded experience—combining scenic views, local cuisine, and a relaxed atmosphere. The inclusion of two drinks and a two-hour cruise makes it a reasonable price for the memorable evening it provides. Considering the quality of the food and the intimate setting, many guests find it good value, especially compared to larger, more commercial tours.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

This Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise is best for travelers who seek authentic Southern flavors in a casual, scenic setting. It’s suitable for romantic couples wanting a sunset toast, families with older kids eager to try local seafood, or groups of friends looking for a fun night out. If you prefer a more formal dining experience or are traveling in large groups, you might want to explore other options, but if your goal is relaxed, authentic, and scenic, this cruise checks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is advance booking necessary?
Yes, because the cruise has limited capacity and operates only on select days (Wednesdays and Fridays starting June 11, 2025). Booking early guarantees your spot.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a two-hour cruise, dinner with local shrimp, smoked sausage, corn, and potatoes, and two complimentary drinks (wine, beer, or soft drinks).

Can I buy additional drinks?
Yes, any drinks beyond the two included ones are not included in the package and must be purchased separately.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
You’ll find the Island Head Check-In at the white floating building on the long wooden pier. Arrive early to check in and board smoothly.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
While the data doesn’t specify age restrictions, the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere suggests it’s suitable for older children who enjoy scenic views and seafood.

What if it rains?
The boat has shaded areas, and the experience is designed for mild weather. Severe weather might lead to rescheduling or cancellation, but the booking policy offers flexibility.

How long does the entire experience last?
The cruise itself lasts about 2 hours, making it an easy evening activity that doesn’t take up an entire day.

Are the seats comfortable?
Yes, the boat offers spacious seating and shaded areas, ensuring comfort throughout the cruise.

Is this experience good value for money?
Given the inclusions—dinner, drinks, scenic views, and the small-group, intimate atmosphere—it offers excellent value for those seeking an authentic Lowcountry experience on the water.

This Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise on Hilton Head is a charming way to enjoy the region’s flavors and scenery without fuss. It’s relaxed, authentic, and thoughtfully organized — perfect if you’re looking to savor the South’s culinary soul while drifting on tranquil waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: