Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise

Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise: A Relaxed Evening on the Water

When you think of Charleston, you probably imagine historic streets, charming architecture, and incredible seafood. But for a different perspective, a sunset dinner cruise offers the chance to see the city’s skyline, the Ravenel Bridge, and the harbor’s beauty from the water. This particular cruise, costing around $72 per person, lasts about 2.5 hours and includes a barbecue buffet and live blues music. We found it to be a decent experience for those seeking a laid-back, scenic outing, especially if you’re in the mood for some good food and a touch of local music.

One thing we really like about this cruise is the stunning sunset views—there’s something magical about watching the sky turn orange and pink over Charleston’s historic silhouette. The barbecue buffet is quite hearty, with classic dishes like pulled pork, smoked chicken, and vegetarian options, which means there’s something for all. The live blues music adds a relaxed vibe, perfect for a date night or an easy outing with friends or family.

A possible downside? The reviews indicate some inconsistency—ranging from excellent staff and scenery to issues with food quality and organization. It’s worth noting that the cruise can feel a bit uneven depending on your expectations and the day you go. This experience tends to attract those looking for a casual, scenic evening rather than a luxurious or gourmet experience. If you’re after a relaxing harbor cruise with good, straightforward food and some local tunes, this will suit you well.

This cruise is best suited for travelers wanting a casual, scenic activity, especially if you’d like to combine a relaxed dinner with beautiful sunset views. Families, couples, and friends seeking a low-pressure way to enjoy Charleston from the water will probably find it hits the right notes.

Key Points

• Ideal for relaxed evenings with scenic sunset views and live music.
• Includes a hearty barbecue buffet, offering classic Southern fare.
• Pre-book to secure your spot, as this popular cruise tends to fill up about 26 days in advance.
• Mixed reviews on food quality and organization; some guests found it lacking, others loved the atmosphere.
• Great for those looking for an easy, no-fuss cruise experience with family or friends.
• Bar available onboard, but drinks are purchased separately, and some reviews mention prices.

In-Depth Review of the Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise

Setting Sail from the Charleston Maritime Center

Your journey begins right in the heart of Charleston at the Maritime Center. From there, you’ll board the Charleston Princess, a boat designed to give a comfortable yet casual harbor experience. The timing is fixed at 7:00 pm, so arriving a little early helps you find a good spot and settle in before departure.

The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, which allows plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, music, and food without feeling rushed. The boat holds up to 150 travelers, offering a more intimate environment compared to larger ships, but keep in mind that it can get crowded during peak times.

The Experience on Deck

Once on board, you’ll notice the boat has multiple decks, with the upper deck offering the best views for sunset photos and scenic vistas. Several reviews mention that the live blues band is a highlight, although some guests felt the sound levels or music quality did not always meet expectations. The band generally plays a mix of blues tunes, creating a mellow, easygoing atmosphere.

One review praised the friendly staff and remarked, “The staff was both extremely friendly and willing to accommodate,” highlighting the crew’s effort to make everyone feel welcome. The lighting and seating arrangements make it easy to relax and take in the views, although some parts of the boat, especially the lower deck, may be less comfortable or accessible for those with mobility challenges.

The Scenery and Sunset

The real star of this cruise is the sunset. As the boat glides into Charleston harbor, you’ll witness the sky transform into shades of orange, pink, and purple. The views of the Ravenel Bridge and the historic city skyline provide a picturesque backdrop for photos and quiet reflection.

Several guests describe this as a “magical experience,” with one mentioning the “full moon over the water was amazing.” For many, this is a peaceful way to unwind after a day of sightseeing, with the added bonus of watching the city from a different angle.

The Barbecue Buffet: Food for Thought

The BBQ buffet is a central feature of this cruise, offering pulled pork, smoked chicken, vegetarian options, salads, and desserts. The food is served buffet-style, and while some guests found it “really good,” others felt it was only mediocre or lacked flavor, with comments like “the BBQ had no flavor,” or “the meat was dry and unappetizing.”

One guest remarked that the presentation was basic—“soiled carpets, plain tablecloths, and dusty windows”—which could dampen the dining experience. But others appreciated that the buffet moved quickly despite the long lines, and the coleslaw and banana pudding received mixed reviews.

A common theme in reviews was the value for money. At $72, it’s a fair price considering the scenic views and live entertainment, but if you’re expecting gourmet cuisine, you might be disappointed. The drinks are available for purchase at the bar, with some reviews mentioning the prices—$4.50 for soda and $11 or more for alcoholic drinks.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

The live blues music is generally well received, and many guests enjoyed the laid-back, jazzy vibes. However, some found the sound levels inconsistent—“The live band could not be heard if you were not on that level of the boat,” or “It wasn’t blues, more like rock and roll.” The music adds to the casual, fun ambiance, but don’t expect a concert-level performance.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Pre-book your tickets to secure a spot, especially during busy seasons.
• Expect paid parking nearby; plan accordingly.
• Bring cash for tips, as many reviews mention this being the preferred method.
• Consider bringing your own water or additional drinks if you’re sensitive to spicy BBQ or want to stay hydrated.
• Be aware that accessibility may be limited; one review explicitly states it’s not handicap accessible, with no accessible toilet on board.
• The cruise can get cold after sunset, so bring a light jacket or layers.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

If your idea of a memorable evening involves scenic views, relaxed music, and hearty food, then this cruise is worth considering. It’s especially suitable for couples on a date, families with kids (accompanied by adults), or groups of friends wanting a simple way to enjoy Charleston’s harbor at sunset. Just be prepared for some variability in food quality and organization, as reviews reflect.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a gourmet meal or an ultra-organized event, you might find this cruise somewhat lacking. Those seeking premium drinks or a more polished musical experience might prefer other options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children are allowed to participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind that the overall atmosphere is relaxed and casual.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the harbor cruise, live blues music, and BBQ buffet dinner. Drinks are sold separately at the bar.

Is parking available at the departure point?
Yes, paid parking is available on site near the Charleston Maritime Center. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Can I purchase drinks onboard?
Yes, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages are available for purchase at the bar, which operates on a cash basis.

What if the weather is bad?
Since the cruise is weather-dependent, it may be canceled if conditions are poor. In that case, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

How long does the cruise last?
The experience takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you ample time for enjoying the scenery, food, and music.

Is the cruise accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
Accessibility is limited; some guests mention it’s not handicap accessible, with stairs and no accessible toilet on board.

Closing Thoughts

The Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise offers a laid-back way to see Charleston from a different angle. With its beautiful sunset views, classic BBQ buffet, and live blues tunes, it’s perfect for those wanting an easy, relaxed evening in a scenic setting. While the experience is not without its flaws—some guests found the food mediocre or wished for clearer organization—the overall atmosphere can be quite enjoyable if you’re prepared for a casual, unpretentious cruise.

This experience stands out as a good fit for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a fun, scenic way to kick off an evening, especially if you enjoy good food and a mellow soundtrack. It’s not the event for those seeking gourmet cuisine or a flawless experience, but it does deliver on charm, views, and a taste of local music.

Enjoy your cruise and make sure to bring your camera, your tips, and a sense of relaxed adventure. Charleston’s harbor is waiting to show you its best side at sunset.