Harbour Town: Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise

Imagine starting your Sunday with a leisurely cruise through Hilton Head’s calm waters, a hearty brunch in hand, and the chance to see dolphins swimming alongside. That’s exactly what the Harbour Town Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise offers—a relaxed, delicious, and scenic escape on the water. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a peaceful way to explore, this cruise promises a bit of everything: tasty food, friendly service, and memorable views.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the ample seating options—inside with climate control or outside on the shaded deck—and the opportunity to see dolphins in their natural habitat. These elements make it feel both comfortable and authentic. One potential consideration is the limited menu, which might not satisfy every appetite, especially if you’re expecting a meat-heavy breakfast. Still, for those seeking a laid-back, picturesque outing with good value, this cruise hits the mark for families, couples, or anyone wanting a relaxed morning on the water.

If you’re someone who enjoys a combination of scenic views, good food, and gentle wildlife encounters, this cruise is likely a great fit. Its casual, friendly vibe makes it suitable for all ages—just prepare to relax and enjoy the Lowcountry’s peaceful waters.

Key Points

• Comfortable Inside & Outside Seating: Climate-controlled cabin with panoramic windows or shaded deck for outdoor views.
• Delicious Southern-Inspired Brunch: Prepared by award-winning chefs, featuring classic Lowcountry favorites.
• Wildlife Viewing: Captain-led narration often includes dolphin sightings, adding a special touch to the cruise.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Slow-paced, peaceful ride suited for families, celebrations, or laid-back mornings.
• Excellent Service & Value: Personal table service, a full cash bar, and inclusive gratuity make for a smooth experience.
• Cost-Effective: At $83 per person, it offers a good balance of food, scenery, and wildlife for a 1.5-hour trip.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and Experience in Detail

The adventure begins at the Harbour Town Yacht Basin, a landmark in itself, with the Spirit of Harbour Town docked at the second-to-last slip. Arriving 30 minutes before departure is recommended to settle in, find your reserved table, and enjoy the pre-cruise atmosphere. The boat’s double-decker design provides options: cozy, climate-controlled indoor seating with large windows or a shaded outdoor deck on the upper level. This flexibility means you can choose your preferred environment—whether you want to stay cool inside or soak up some sun outside.

As the cruise sets sail, the captain provides narration throughout—pointing out landmarks, wildlife, and local sights. The views of Calibogue Sound are quite lovely, offering a peaceful panorama that makes the 90-minute journey seem shorter. You’ll probably be chatting, sipping drinks, or just soaking in the scenery as the boat glides along.

The highlight of the cruise is the brunch buffet. The menu features a hearty selection of southern-inspired favorites. You’ll start with fresh pastries and muffins, perfect with fruit preserves or whipped butter. There are sliced seasonal fruits and berries to refresh your palate, alongside scrambled eggs and crispy apple-smoked bacon. For something more filling, the hash brown casserole and local shrimp with stone-ground grits in Tasso gravy are popular choices. The French toast casserole baked to golden perfection, served with pure maple syrup, is a sweet way to start your day.

Many reviewers highlight the quality of the food. One traveler mentioned, “The brunch was well organized. The food was very hot and tasty. It was well worth the cost.” The buffet’s southern flair gives you a taste of local flavors, and the chef’s skill shows through the presentation and freshness.

While the buffet is tempting, some guests have found it somewhat limited—mainly bacon as the only meat option, which can run out as the cruise fills up. It’s worth arriving early to ensure a good selection. Still, the overall consensus is that the food quality and service make this well worth the price.

The bottomless champagne mimosas and sparkling cider pour freely from the cash bar, which is a nice touch adding a celebratory feel to the cruise. A 10% gratuity is included in the price, simplifying things at the end.

Wildlife & Landmark Sightings

One of the most charming parts of this cruise is the chance to observe dolphins swimming nearby. Several reviews mention how dolphins often appear alongside the boat, sometimes swimming right beside it. The captain’s narration helps you identify local landmarks and wildlife, making the trip educational as well as relaxing. Even if the scenery isn’t dramatically scenic, the peaceful waters and wildlife encounters elevate the experience.

Guests have shared that the “highlight was definitely the service,” noting the friendly and attentive staff who kept drinks topped off and made everyone feel welcome. This attentive service contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment of the cruise.

Practical Details

The cost of $83 per person includes a generous brunch, a full cash bar, and gratuity. While the price may seem a bit high for some, the quality of the food, combined with the scenery and wildlife, offers good value—especially for those looking for a memorable, hassle-free morning. The duration of 1.5 hours makes it ideal for a morning activity, leaving plenty of time afterward to explore Hilton Head or relax.

The meeting point is straightforward: right in front of the iconic red-and-white-striped lighthouse in Harbour Town. The dock is easy to access, and boarding begins 30 minutes ahead. Keep in mind that parking and entrance fees inside Sea Pines Resort and Harbour Town are not included—so plan for a bit of extra time and expense if you’re driving.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This brunch cruise appeals most to those who enjoy casual, scenic outings with good food. It’s perfect for families, couples celebrating a special occasion, or anyone wanting a peaceful way to start a Sunday. The dolphin sightings and panoramic views add an element of charm that makes it more than just a meal on a boat. If you’re seeking a relaxed, friendly environment with a taste of Lowcountry hospitality, this cruise fits the bill.

Keep in mind that if you’re hoping for a wide variety of food or more energetic scenery, this might feel a little subdued. But for travelers after a low-key, scenic, and delicious morning, it’s a solid choice.

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The Sum Up

The Harbour Town Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise offers a lovely blend of calm waters, tasty Southern-inspired food, and wildlife watching—especially dolphins. Its indoor and outdoor seating options ensure comfort regardless of weather, and the friendly service makes it feel more like visiting friends than a tourist trap. While the menu could be more diverse, the quality and presentation keep it satisfying.

This cruise is best suited for those who want a peaceful, scenic start to their Sunday, with good food and the chance to see local wildlife in a relaxed setting. It’s a nice break from more active adventures, and a wonderful way to soak in Hilton Head’s tranquil waters.

If you’re looking for a genuine Lowcountry experience, combining scenic beauty with hearty hospitality, this cruise delivers a memorable morning. Just arrive early, relax, and enjoy the peaceful ride with some great food and friendly company.

FAQ

Is the brunch buffet included in the ticket price?
Yes, the $83 ticket covers the chef-prepared brunch, as well as gratuity and a full cash bar.

What are the seating options?
You can choose to sit inside in the climate-controlled cabin with large windows or outside on the shaded upper deck—both offer great views.

When should I arrive?
Boarding begins 30 minutes before departure, so plan to arrive early to settle in and enjoy the pre-cruise atmosphere.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
While dolphins are frequently sighted, they are wild animals, so sightings depend on the day and conditions.

Is there any entertainment or narration?
Yes, the captain provides commentary, pointing out landmarks and wildlife along the way.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect morning activity.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Parking and entrance fees within Sea Pines Resort are not included in the ticket price.

Is there a dress code?
Casual attire is fine—dress comfortably for a boat ride, and bring layers if you tend to get chilly inside.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking is flexible with a pay-later option.

Who should avoid this experience?
Those expecting a large variety of foods or more energetic scenery might find it too relaxed. It’s ideal for laid-back mornings and scenic appreciation.

In the end, the Harbour Town Sunday Brunch Buffet Cruise gives you a taste of Hilton Head’s waterway charm, with good food and dolphin friends to make your morning memorable.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby