Hilton Head Island: Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise

Imagine gliding over calm waters aboard a spacious boat, your plate piled high with authentic Southern seafood, and a gentle breeze keeping things comfortable. For those seeking a relaxed evening that combines scenic views with a true taste of the Lowcountry, the Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise offered by Island Head on Hilton Head Island is a charming option. At $118 per person for a two-hour experience, it’s a balanced mix of casual dining and picturesque adventure, rated highly at 4.7 stars.

What we love most about this cruise is how it feels like a genuine slice of the South. You’re not just eating; you’re experiencing the laid-back vibe of the coast, with generous local shrimp and smoked sausage served fresh and hot, and a chance to toast the evening with two included drinks—be it wine, beer, or soft drinks. Plus, the boat’s spacious, shaded seating makes it comfortable for all ages.

On the flip side, you’ll want to plan ahead—this cruise runs only on Wednesdays and Fridays, and spots are limited, so booking in advance is a must. Also, because it’s a shorter, intimate cruise, anyone expecting a lengthy or lively party might find it a bit mellow. Still, for those craving authentic local flavors and a relaxing scenic experience, it hits the sweet spot.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a memorable low-key evening. If you enjoy good food with a view and prefer smaller, more personal experiences without a massive crowd, this cruise will suit you beautifully.

Key Points

• Authentic Southern Cuisine: Enjoy a traditional Lowcountry Boil with local shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes.
• Scenic Evening Views: Appreciate the sunset and gentle breezes as you cruise around Hilton Head’s waters.
• Inclusive Drinks: Two complimentary drinks—wine, beer, or soft drinks—add to the relaxed atmosphere.
• Comfortable Setting: Spacious, shaded seating aboard the Bonjour ensures a laid-back, casual vibe.
• Limited Capacity: Small groups mean a more personal experience, but require advance booking.
• Ideal for Casual Dining: Perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just unwinding after a day of sightseeing.

Setting the Scene:
From the moment you step onto the Bonjour, you’ll notice the boat’s inviting atmosphere. With spacious, shaded seating, it’s designed to keep guests comfortable in the warm coastal air. The cruise departs from a convenient meeting point—down a long wooden pier, with the Island Head Check-In building marking your start. As you settle in, the gentle sound of the water lapping against the boat sets a peaceful tone.

What the Cruise Offers:
Over the next two hours, you’ll enjoy a traditional seafood boil, which is more than just a meal—it’s a Southern ritual. Expect local shrimp cooked to perfection, smoked sausage, and hearty sides like corn on the cob and red potatoes. The hot and fresh presentation makes it feel like a home-cooked gathering rather than a standard cruise meal. As one reviewer put it, “The seafood was fresh, and the whole atmosphere felt laid-back and genuine.”

Drinks and Toasting:
Included with your ticket are two drinks—choices of wine, beer, or soft drinks—making it easy to toast in the golden hour. This feature adds a layer of conviviality and ease, especially for couples or small groups celebrating something special. A guest mentioned, “We loved the relaxed vibe and having a couple of drinks included—it made the evening feel just right.”

Scenic Views & Atmosphere:
As the boat slowly cruises, you’ll be treated to views of Hilton Head’s coastline bathed in golden light. The gentle breeze and the quiet sounds of water create a perfect setting for unwinding or sharing stories. It’s a casual, friendly environment that encourages conversation and enjoyment. One traveler raved, “The views alone are worth it, and the boat’s shaded areas kept us comfortable even in the warm weather.”

Small Group Experience:
With limited capacity, this cruise feels intimate and personalized. The smaller groups mean better interaction, more space, and a less hurried atmosphere. For those who appreciate a personal touch, this is a significant advantage. However, because of the limited schedule—only on Wednesdays and Fridays—you’ll want to plan ahead to secure your spot.

Who Is This For?
This experience suits families, couples, or friends who appreciate authentic local food and a laid-back, scenic backdrop**. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a casual yet memorable evening without the rush or fuss of larger cruise options. If you value small groups and authenticity over extravagance, this cruise will find a happy place in your Hilton Head itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Itinerary Breakdown:
Once aboard the Bonjour, your cruise begins with a gentle departure from the dock, heading out into Hilton Head’s scenic waters. The boat’s shaded areas allow you to relax comfortably as the crew prepares and serves the classic Lowcountry boil. The meal, served hot and fresh, becomes the focal point of the cruise—think of it as a coastal picnic on the water. The corn, potatoes, sausage, and shrimp come together in a flavorful, hearty mix that truly embodies the Lowcountry cuisine.

Authentic Flavors & Quality:
Guests frequently mention the quality of the seafood, emphasizing the freshness of the local shrimp. The smoked sausage adds a smoky, savory note that complements the seafood perfectly. The generous side of corn and potatoes rounds out the meal, making it satisfying without feeling heavy. The emphasis on local ingredients and traditional preparation enhances the authenticity.

Atmosphere & Socializing:
The vibe aboard is friendly and laid-back. The shaded seating makes it easy to relax and enjoy the views. The two included drinks encourage toasting and conversation. One reviewer described it as, “a perfect way to end a day on Hilton Head,” highlighting the social and restorative nature of the cruise.

Reviews & Feedback:
While the tour’s brevity might seem like a limitation, many reviewers appreciate the personalized, intimate feel. They mention how the friendly crew and comfortable setting make it a memorable experience. Some noted that advance booking was necessary, especially since the cruise is only offered twice a week. The feedback suggests that the authentic food and scenic views outweigh the small scheduling window.

Additional Considerations:
Because drinks beyond the two included ones are not provided, if you plan to enjoy more, you might want to bring additional beverages or purchase extras separately. The cruise’s timing in the evening aligns perfectly with sunset views, making it a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Price & Value Analysis

At $118 per person, this cruise offers a well-rounded experience—combining authentic Southern cuisine, scenic water views, and relaxed comfort. Considering that the meal is all-you-can-eat style with local ingredients and two drinks included, it’s a competitive price point for Hilton Head’s waterfront dining options. Larger dinner cruises or seafood venues may charge more for less scenic value or less intimate settings.

The fact that advance booking is highly recommended underscores its popularity and limited availability. It’s a good value for travelers who want to enjoy an authentic taste of the Lowcountry in a comfortable, scenic setting without the fuss of a large tourist operation.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is best suited for travelers who value authenticity and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect if you’re after a casual dinner with scenic views and want to soak in Hilton Head’s coastal charm. Families, couples, or small groups seeking an informal, intimate evening will find this cruise especially appealing. It offers a solid, authentic meal paired with gentle entertainment and stunning sunset vistas—an ideal way to cap a day of exploring Hilton Head.

FAQs

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts exactly 2 hours, providing ample time to enjoy your meal and the scenery without feeling rushed.

What meals are included?
Your ticket covers a traditional Lowcountry Boil, featuring local shrimp, smoked sausage, corn on the cob, and red potatoes. It’s a hearty, flavorful, Southern-style meal.

Are drinks included?
Yes, two drinks are included with your ticket—choices of wine, beer, or soft drinks—making it easy to toast the sunset.

How do I meet the crew?
Meet at the long wooden pier, at the Island Head Check-In building, which is a white floating building to the left. It’s straightforward to locate.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility makes booking less risky.

Is advance booking necessary?
Absolutely. Since the cruise is only offered Wednesdays and Fridays and has limited capacity, booking ahead ensures a spot.

What should I bring?
Just bring yourself, your appetite, and perhaps some additional beverages if you want more than the two included drinks. The boat supplies spacious, shaded seating for comfort.

The Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise on Hilton Head Island offers a delicious glimpse into Southern coastal cuisine paired with scenic views and a casual, friendly atmosphere. It stands out as an authentic, intimate experience that fits well into any relaxed vacation schedule. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to unwind with good food and beautiful scenery, this cruise provides a well-balanced mix of flavors and sights.

For travelers seeking a genuine taste of Hilton Head’s maritime charm without the crowds or fuss, this tour gets it just right. Its limited schedule and capacity make it a must-book experience, especially for those who value personal interaction and authentic local flavors. It’s an easy choice for anyone wanting to add a memorable, culinary water adventure to their trip.