Charleston is known for its charming streets, historic charm, and vibrant culinary scene. But one of the best ways to enjoy this city is on the water, where views and atmosphere combine for memorable dinners. We especially like the Charleston: Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise because it combines a refined three-course meal with stunning views of Fort Sumter, the Ravenel Bridge, and the Battery—all while cruising aboard the elegant Spirit of Carolina. This experience offers a relaxed yet upscale way to see Charleston’s harbor and enjoy some of the best Southern cooking around. If live music and sunset views are your thing, the Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music is a fantastic choice, blending scenic cruising with lively tunes and a romantic vibe. For a more casual, fun night out, the Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise offers a laid-back evening with barbecue, live music, and sweeping sunset views.
If you’re trying to decide which dinner experience fits your style and budget, this guide will walk you through the best options, highlighting their unique features and what makes each stand out.
Quick Overview
Below, we share three top dinner cruises in Charleston, each with its own appeal. For those seeking a luxurious, elegant evening, the Charleston: Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise offers a 3-course meal with panoramic harbor views. If you’re after a lively, music-filled cruise with historic sights, the Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music combines good food and entertainment. And for casual diners who want to enjoy barbecue with a sunset backdrop, the Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise provides a relaxed, fun experience. Now, let’s explore each in detail.
1. Charleston: Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise
At number one, the Charleston: Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise offers an elegant way to see Charleston from the water. Priced at $111 per person, the 2.5-hour cruise aboard the Spirit of Carolina includes a carefully prepared 3-course dinner made with fresh, local ingredients. This cruise is perfect for those wanting a refined, relaxed evening while soaking in spectacular views of the harbor, including Fort Sumter, the Battery, and the Ravenel Bridge.
What makes this experience stand out is its blend of luxury and authenticity. The dinner is served in a full-service setting, and live music adds a soothing soundtrack to your night. The cruise departs from the Charleston harbor and offers unobstructed sunset views, making it ideal for celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying an upscale dinner with friends or a loved one.
This tour has earned a solid 4.4-star rating from 780 reviews, with many visitors praising the quality of the food and the relaxing atmosphere. The price reflects the quality—an excellent value for a scenic dinner cruise in a city known for its hospitality.
Bottom line: if you want a sophisticated yet relaxed evening with excellent food and views, this cruise is hard to beat.
2. Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music
Second on our list is the Charleston Harbor Luxury Dinner Cruise with Live Music, priced at just over $100 per person. This 2-hour-and-30-minute cruise offers a lively combination of live local music, scenic harbor views, and a delicious three-course meal. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a fun, energetic night out with a romantic twist or a lively gathering with friends.
The cruise takes you past key sights like Fort Sumter, the Battery, and under the iconic Ravenel Bridge. It’s operated aboard the vintage Spirit of Carolina, which adds a nostalgic charm. While the full-service bar is available, drinks are paid separately, giving you the freedom to choose your favorites. Guests consistently praise the friendly staff, good music, and tasty food, with reviews highlighting the memorable atmosphere.
This cruise is especially suited for those who value entertainment as part of their dining experience—whether it’s a guitar solo or a relaxing playlist, the onboard music enhances the scenic cruising. The reviews show a strong 4.0/5 rating, with many noting it as a fun and worthwhile outing.
Bottom line: this cruise hits the sweet spot for a lively evening that combines scenic views, great food, and entertainment.
3. Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise
Finally, for a more relaxed and affordable option, there’s the Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise, priced at $72 per person. This approximately 2.5-hour cruise offers a barbecue buffet featuring pulled pork, smoked chicken, mac and cheese, and coleslaw—classic Southern fare perfect for a casual evening.
What makes this cruise different is its focus on informal fun and live music, often featuring blues or similar genres onboard. It’s ideal for couples, families, or friends wanting a laid-back night with great food and scenic sunset views. The cruise departs during the evening, so you can enjoy Charleston’s skyline light up as you dine.
While the rating is slightly lower at 3.5/5 based on 148 reviews, most visitors find the food tasty and the overall experience enjoyable. It’s especially recommended if your priority is good value and a relaxed vibe without sacrificing the chance to see Charleston from the water.
Bottom line: this cruise provides a fun, casual evening with barbecue and live music, perfect for budget-conscious travelers or those seeking a less formal experience.
$72.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Charleston Dinner Cruise
When selecting a dinner experience in Charleston, consider your budget, the type of atmosphere you prefer, and what sights or activities matter most. If you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a refined experience, the Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise delivers elegance and scenic beauty. For a lively night with music and socializing, the Harbor Cruise with Live Music offers a great combination of entertainment and iconic Charleston views. If you’re on a tighter budget or prefer a casual, family-friendly outing, the Sunset Blues & BBQ Cruise presents a fun, relaxed way to enjoy the harbor.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season (spring through fall), to secure your preferred date and time. Consider also how much time you want to spend on the water—these cruises range from 2 to 2.5 hours—so plan your evening accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Charleston offers a variety of memorable dinner experiences, each with its own charm. For those seeking a luxurious, scenic evening, the Luxury Harbor Dinner Cruise stands out. If you want a lively, music-filled night with scenic views, the Harbor Cruise with Live Music is a top pick. For a relaxed, budget-friendly outing, the Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise hits the right note.
No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you secure a spot for a truly special night in Charleston. These experiences highlight the best of what Charleston’s water and culinary scenes have to offer—so pick the one that best suits your style, and enjoy a memorable evening in this charming city.