North Myrtle Beach: Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat

Imagine gliding along the calm Intracoastal Waterway aboard a charming, vintage-style paddlewheel boat, enjoying a hearty dinner and beautiful views. For just $69 per person, you get a two-hour cruise that combines scenic sightseeing, live entertainment, and a taste of Southern hospitality. The Barefoot Queen Riverboat offers a unique way to see the Grand Strand—an area renowned for its waterways, beaches, and friendly atmosphere.

What we love about this experience is the authenticity of the paddlewheel boat — it feels like stepping into a bygone era with its wooden structure and relaxing pace. Plus, the convenient shuttle service from parking makes the whole process smooth, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the dinner quality can be hit or miss, and entertainment options could be more diverse. Still, if you’re looking for an affordable, relaxing, and scenic outing, this cruise hits the mark. It’s best suited for couples, groups seeking a laid-back evening, or anyone wanting to combine good food with picturesque views.

Key Points

• Authentic Paddlewheel Experience: The boat’s design enhances the charm and nostalgic feel.
• Scenic Views: Cruise along the Intracoastal Waterway, taking in sights of the Grand Strand.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Dinner, dessert, water, and tea are included, with a fully-stocked bar available for purchase.
• Live Entertainment: Enjoy singing or narration that adds personality to your cruise.
• Ease of Access: Shuttle service from parking simplifies logistics.
• Good Value: At $69, it offers a well-rounded experience for a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

From the moment you arrive at the Barefoot Queen parking lot, the experience begins with a shuttle ride that swiftly transports you to the dock. This really simplifies logistics, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area or trying to avoid parking hassles. The check-in process is straightforward, and you’re greeted by the friendly crew and the captain, setting a welcoming tone.

The Boat and Its Atmosphere

The 70-foot wooden paddlewheel boat exudes vintage charm, reminiscent of historic riverboats that once traveled the Mississippi. The boat features two climate-controlled interior decks that keep you comfortable regardless of weather, plus three outdoor decks for those who prefer fresh air and panoramic views. As the boat gently moves through the water, you can walk around freely, taking in the sights from different vantage points. One reviewer mentioned how nice it was to “walk around the boat and enjoy the scenery,” which is a definite plus, especially on a clear evening.

Scenic Waterway and Views

The cruise sails along the Intracoastal Waterway, offering a peaceful, scenic backdrop that showcases the natural beauty of the Grand Strand. Many reviews highlight the stunning vistas—from waterfront homes to marshlands—and the relaxed atmosphere makes for a memorable evening. Expect to see areas of historic homes and possibly some wildlife, making it a treat for nature lovers.

Food and Drink

The dinner menu features classic Southern fare such as lemon pepper chicken, Dijon pork tenderloin, seasonal vegetables, roasted potatoes, and a dessert. We appreciate that water and tea are included, providing a non-alcoholic option for everyone. For those wanting a little more kick, the boat’s fully-stocked bar offers beer, wine, and liquors for purchase—important to remember that you must be 21+ with ID to buy alcohol.

Several reviewers note that the food quality is generally good, with comments like “the food was OK” and “great food,” though some mention that the dessert could be a bit dry or that the main meal could be more consistent in temperature. Still, the emphasis is on enjoying the atmosphere, views, and company.

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Live Entertainment and Commentary

One of the highlights is the live entertainment—which can include singing or storytelling about the local sights. Multiple guests comment on how knowledgeable and personable their guides or performers were, adding a layer of personality and local flavor to the cruise. For example, Shaun was described as “very knowledgeable about the local animals and conservation efforts” and made guests feel like longtime friends.

While some reviews suggest the entertainment could diversify—perhaps more music variety—they generally agree that it adds a joyful, engaging element to the cruise.

Atmosphere and Social Vibe

Guests describe the scene as relaxing and friendly. Many mention how they enjoyed meeting others or just unwinding to good music and scenic views. One reviewee shared that they “got engaged on the second front balcony,” highlighting the romantic potential of this cruise. The group size tends to be comfortable, fostering a cozy and social environment.

Practical Details and Considerations

The duration—around two hours—is just right for a relaxing evening without feeling rushed. Boarding begins 45 minutes prior to departure, and everyone is asked to be on board at least five minutes before the cruise begins.

The price point of $69 per person offers good value, especially considering the included dinner, dessert, and water/tea. Additional drinks are available for purchase, and the shuttle service from parking is free, making logistics hassle-free. Keep in mind that cancellation is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

Who Would Love This Cruise?

This experience is perfect for couples looking for a romantic night out, families wanting a gentle scenic adventure, or groups seeking a relaxed, social evening. It’s ideal if you appreciate authentic vintage-style boats, scenic waterways, and a chance to enjoy good Southern food with some local flavor.

Those seeking entertainment variety or a gourmet meal might find the food or music options a bit limited, but overall, the cruise offers a well-rounded, enjoyable outing. It’s especially suited for travelers who value value for money, friendly staff, and a peaceful environment.

In-Depth Review: Why This Cruise Matters

Authentic Paddlewheel Charm

The design of the boat plays a big role in the experience. With its wooden construction and paddlewheel, it feels like stepping back in time. This isn’t just a boat ride; it’s a nostalgic journey that transports you to an era of riverboats and leisurely travel. Several reviews mentioned how the authenticity added to the ambiance, making it a memorable highlight of their trip.

Scenic Waterway and Local Sights

The Intracoastal Waterway itself is a beautiful, calming corridor for sightseeing. We loved the way the boat’s various decks allowed us to soak in the views from different perspectives—whether sitting indoors or enjoying the breeze on the outdoor decks. The waterway offers glimpses of historic homes, lush marshlands, and maybe even some wildlife, which keeps the scenery engaging throughout.

Food and Beverage

The menu offers familiar comfort foods, prepared in a way that suits the relaxed atmosphere. While some reviews mentioned the dessert or food temperature could improve, most guests felt that the portion sizes and flavor were satisfactory. It’s not fine dining, but for $69, the combination of good food, scenic views, and entertainment makes for a solid value.

The bar enhances the experience, allowing you to sip a beer or glass of wine as you float along, adding a social and celebratory feel. The included water and tea keep things simple and refreshing.

Entertainment & Commentary

The onboard music and narration add a personal touch. We appreciated guides like Shaun, who made the journey more engaging by sharing local stories and pointing out interesting sights. The entertainment is generally well-received, although a few would like a broader musical selection—something to consider if you prefer more diverse entertainment.

Logistics & Comfort

Starting with the shuttle service makes getting to the boat straightforward. No need to stress over parking, as the shuttle runs regularly from the lot to the dock. The indoor decks provide comfort in case of weather changes, while the outdoor decks allow for fresh air and unobstructed views.

Guests consistently mention the friendly staff and seamless check-in process, emphasizing how smoothly everything runs. The boarding process is well-organized, and the crew’s attentiveness ensures everyone feels taken care of.

Authenticity Meets Practicality

This cruise strikes a nice balance: it offers authenticity with its paddlewheel boat, scenic views of the coast, and local storytelling, combined with practical features like shuttle transportation, included drinks, and a reasonable price.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re in North Myrtle Beach and seeking a laid-back, scenic evening with good food and friendly company, this cruise delivers. It’s especially suitable for romantic couples, small groups, or families who enjoy gentle waterway tours without the hustle or fuss. The affordable price and authentic vessel make it a worthwhile option for travelers wanting a memorable experience without breaking the bank.

Those craving diverse entertainment or gourmet cuisine might want to look elsewhere, but for a peaceful, scenic, and authentic outing, this paddlewheel dinner cruise offers a delightful slice of Southern charm.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the boat features climate-controlled indoor decks so you can stay comfortable regardless of weather. Outdoor decks are available for sunny or breezy days.

Can I purchase alcohol during the cruise?
Yes, the boat’s fully-stocked bar offers beer, wine, and liquors for purchase. You need to be 21 or older with a valid ID to buy alcohol.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately two hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, food, and entertainment without feeling rushed.

Is there a shuttle to the boat?
Yes, a complimentary shuttle runs from the parking lot to the dock, with pickups starting 45 minutes before the cruise and ending 10 minutes prior.

What type of food is served?
The menu includes Southern-style dishes like lemon pepper chicken and Dijon pork tenderloin, along with seasonal vegetables, roasted potatoes, and dessert.

Are there any age restrictions?
You must be 21+ with valid ID to purchase alcohol. There are no other age restrictions mentioned, but the cruise is generally suitable for families and couples.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is appropriate. If you plan to spend time on the outdoor decks, consider bringing layers or a light jacket, especially in the evenings.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through the provider’s website or platforms like GetYourGuide. Remember, the cancellation policy is non-refundable.

In summary, this paddlewheel dinner cruise from North Myrtle Beach offers a charming, affordable way to enjoy the waterways, indulge in good food, and relax with friendly entertainment. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a touch of nostalgia, scenic beauty, and straightforward fun. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a peaceful water adventure, this cruise is likely to leave you with some fond memories—and maybe a few new stories to tell.

You can check availability for your dates here: