Harbour Town: Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise

Imagine beginning your Sunday with a gentle cruise through Hilton Head’s calm waters, enjoying a hearty chef-prepared brunch while spotting playful dolphins. For $83 per person, you get 1.5 hours of relaxing sailing aboard the Spirit of Harbour Town, departing from the iconic Harbour Town Yacht Basin. This experience is perfect for those who want a combination of good food, peaceful scenery, and a touch of Lowcountry wildlife.

What we particularly appreciate about this cruise is its comfortable setting—whether inside the climate-controlled cabin with panoramic windows or outside on the shaded deck, it’s a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The personal service from steward staff makes the experience feel special, and the full cash bar with bottomless champagne mimosas adds a celebratory touch. However, this cruise might not be ideal if you’re seeking an adventurous or highly scenic voyage, as the scenery can be somewhat subdued, and the focus is more on relaxation and good food.

This brunch cruise suits travelers looking for a laid-back morning, families wanting a memorable outing, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy wildlife viewing and a cozy, social atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Relaxing 1.5-hour cruise through Hilton Head’s waterways
Delicious Southern-inspired brunch with local favorites
Indoor and outdoor seating options, both offering great views
Bottomless champagne mimosas included in the ticket price
Informative narration about local landmarks and wildlife
Ideal for families, celebrations, or leisurely mornings

A Detailed Look at the Harbour Town Brunch Cruise

The Setting and Boarding Experience

We love how easy it is to find the departure point — the Spirit of Harbour Town docks directly in front of the iconic red-and-white-striped lighthouse in Harbour Town. The second-to-last slip along the dock is where you’ll board, with boarding starting 30 minutes before the scheduled departure. It’s a straightforward process, and the staff is friendly, making it easy to settle in and relax almost immediately.

Once on board, your options for seating are clear: settle into your reserved indoor table with panoramic windows that give you excellent views of the water or head outside onto the shaded upper deck. Either way, you’re set to enjoy the scenery comfortably. The boat itself is a double-decker yacht, which provides a stable, smooth ride—important for those sensitive to movement or prone to seasickness.

The Itinerary and Food Experience

The cruise itself is a leisurely 1.5 hours, which is perfect for a relaxed Sunday morning. The brunch buffet features a hearty selection of southern classics and fresh produce. We particularly liked the croissants and muffins, served with fruit preserves and whipped butter—an ideal warm start. The seasonal fruits and berries add a refreshing touch, balancing the savory options.

The main dishes like shrimp & grits with Tasso gravy and French toast casserole baked to perfection with maple syrup are crowd favorites. The apple smoked bacon is crisp and savory, though it’s worth noting that some reviews mention the limited meat options, with bacon sometimes running out early. The hash brown casserole offers comforting, cheesy potatoes, while the scrambled eggs are light and fluffy.

For drinks, the bottomless champagne mimosas or sparkling cider are included, making it an easy way to toast the morning. The staff is attentive and keeps drinks topped off, which adds to the relaxed vibe.

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Wildlife and Landmark Narration

One of the highlights is the narration from the captain, who shares insights about local landmarks and wildlife along the route. While the scenery might not be spectacularly dramatic, we found the dolphin sightings to be delightful. Multiple reviewers mention dolphins swimming alongside the boat, an unexpected and memorable treat.

The captain’s commentary adds an educational element that enriches the experience, especially for families or nature lovers. It’s a good opportunity to learn about the Lowcountry’s ecosystem without leaving the comfort of your seat.

The Value for Money

At $83 per person, the cruise offers a decent value given the included brunch, bottomless drinks, and the relaxing atmosphere. The food quality gets positive remarks, with one reviewer calling it “very hot and tasty,” and the overall experience is described as “well organized” and “peaceful.” The fact that 10% gratuity is included in the price simplifies tipping and adds transparency.

However, some travelers feel that the buffet could be more extensive, especially regarding meat options, and scenery might not be as energetic as other water tours. But if your priority is a relaxing, food-focused outing, this cruise hits the mark.

Who Will Enjoy This?

This experience is best suited for travelers looking for a laid-back Sunday outing, especially those who enjoy good food and wildlife viewing. Families with children, couples celebrating a special day, or groups of friends seeking a peaceful start to their day will find this cruise charming. It’s also a nice choice if you want a brief, scenic break without committing to a longer or more active tour.

The Sum Up

The Harbour Town Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise is a charming way to enjoy Hilton Head’s waterways without the need for adventure or strenuous activity. You get a well-organized meal, friendly service, and a relaxed environment perfect for unwinding. The delicious southern-inspired menu and dolphin sightings are the highlights, especially for those who appreciate the combination of good food and nature.

While the scenery isn’t dramatic, the comfortable setting and warm hospitality make this cruise a solid choice for a peaceful morning. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or anyone wanting a memorable brunch experience with a scenic twist.

If you’re after a low-key, quality outing that combines great food, wildlife, and gentle sailing, this cruise deserves a spot on your Hilton Head to-do list.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for vegetarians?
The provided menu highlights focus on seafood, eggs, and bacon, but it’s unclear if vegetarian options are available. You might be able to request vegetarian items in advance or enjoy the fruit and pastries.

How long before departure should I arrive?
Boarding begins 30 minutes prior to the cruise departure, so we recommend arriving early to find your seat and settle in comfortably.

Are indoor or outdoor seating options available?
Yes, you can choose between climate-controlled indoor seating with panoramic windows or outdoor seating on the shaded deck, both offering great views.

Is alcohol included in the price?
No, but there is a full cash bar serving bottomless champagne mimosas and other drinks. The $10 mimosa deal is a popular choice.

How scenic is the route?
The cruise offers peaceful views of Calibogue Sound, with occasional dolphin sightings. It’s not a highly scenic tour, but the tranquil waters and wildlife make it worthwhile.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, families with children often enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, wildlife sightings, and the engaging narration offered by the captain.

This Sunday brunch cruise offers a blend of good food, relaxing scenery, and wildlife encounters that make for a memorable Hilton Head experience. It’s a gentle, enjoyable way to start your day—perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape with a touch of culinary and wildlife fun.

You can check availability for your dates here: