Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise

Our review takes a close look at the Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise, a popular water-based experience designed to combine scenic beauty, good food, and live music. Whether you’re visiting Charleston for the first time or a seasoned local, this cruise offers a different way to soak in the city’s charm from the water. While many appreciate the inviting atmosphere and lovely views, some find the overall value and entertainment less consistent. This tour is ideal for couples, friends, or families looking for a laid-back evening with a touch of Southern hospitality—and a splash of blues.

Two features we genuinely like include the spectacular sunset vistas over Charleston Harbor, and the delicious barbecue buffet that offers hearty Southern favorites. A relaxed ambiance, coupled with live music, makes it an easy choice for those seeking a memorable night out. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the quality of the music and the food can vary, and some guests felt the experience didn’t quite match the price. If you’re craving an authentic blues performance or a gourmet dining experience, this might not hit all the marks. Still, if your idea of a good time is beautiful scenery paired with casual entertainment, this cruise could be a perfect fit.

This experience suits travelers who are looking for a relaxing harbor cruise with a fun, informal vibe, and who don’t mind a little unpredictability in live entertainment or cuisine. Families, date nights, or groups of friends wanting a scenic, easy-going outing will likely enjoy it most. Those expecting a high-end culinary or musical experience might want to weigh their options.

Key Points

• A scenic 2.5-hour cruise offering sunset views over Charleston harbor.
• Includes a barbecue buffet with classic Southern dishes.
• Features live blues music onboard to set a relaxing atmosphere.
• Ideal for casual outings, date nights, and family trips.
• Optional drinks available for purchase; gratuities and parking are extra.
• The experience is best pre-booked to secure your spot.

What to Expect from the Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise

This water tour begins at the Charleston Maritime Center, a convenient downtown location. You’ll board the Charleston Princess, a sizable boat that accommodates up to 150 travelers, so expect a friendly, lively group atmosphere. The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, during which you’ll be treated to sweeping views of Charleston’s skyline and the changing colors of the sunset.

Timing is key here — most guests book their tickets about a month in advance, which suggests this is a popular choice for sunset viewing. It’s worth arriving early to settle in and get comfortable. The cruise offers a mobile ticket, making check-in straightforward, and most travelers find the process smooth.

The Itinerary and Experience

Once on board, the main focus is relaxation and taking in the scenery. The boat moves gently through the harbor, giving you ample opportunities to snap photos of Charleston’s historic waterfront and bridges. The live blues music, a highlight for many, is performed onboard, creating a laid-back, soulful atmosphere. However, reviews suggest the quality varies—some guests loved the band, describing the music as “great” and setting a “wonderful atmosphere,” while others noted that the band couldn’t be heard well from all areas of the boat, or that the music was not always blues.

The buffet dinner is a central part of the tour. It features classic barbecue favorites like pulled pork, smoked chicken, mac and cheese, and coleslaw. Many reviewers appreciated the good quality of the food, calling it “delicious,” and a notable highlight of the experience. However, some found the barbecue to be “mediocre” or lacking flavor, with one guest describing the food as “institutional.”

Drinks and Extras

Most drinks are available for purchase at the bar—watered-down margaritas, no-name wines, and beers are typical offerings. Several reviews mentioned that the drinks were simple and not particularly impressive, with prices sometimes seen as high. Gratuities are expected but not included in the ticket price, so budget accordingly if you want to tip your crew.

The Atmosphere and Audience

This cruise is well-suited for romantic evenings and small group outings. The sunset views tend to wow guests, creating a perfect backdrop for photos and quiet reflection. The mood can vary depending on the music and crowd but generally leans toward casual and relaxed. Several guests, like Gabby, mentioned that the staff was “phenomenal” and “extremely friendly,” adding to the warm, welcoming vibe.

The Flipsides: What Could Be Better?

Some guests expressed disappointment with the inconsistency of the musical performance, noting that the band sometimes played only part of the cruise or was difficult to hear. Several found the food lacked flavor, and a few reviews mentioned technical issues—like a water pipe breaking that cut the trip short unexpectedly.

Pricing at $72 per person is reasonable if you’re after a scenic, easygoing evening, but the value depends on your expectations for food and music. If you’re hoping for a world-class blues show or gourmet barbecue, you might feel underwhelmed. Conversely, if you value the aesthetic experience of Charleston’s harbor at sunset, it offers solid bang for your buck.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is best for those seeking a laid-back, scenic evening with some good food and music in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a good choice for couples, small groups, or families who want a memorable experience without too much formality.

If live blues music and gourmet dining are your priority, you might want to explore other options. But if you’re after stunning sunset views, hearty barbecue, and enjoying the harbor’s sights, this cruise can be a delightful, affordable option.

Final Thoughts on the Charleston Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise

This experience offers a relaxing way to see Charleston from the water, with the added charm of a barbecue buffet and live music. It’s an easy outing that doesn’t require much planning—pre-book your slot to ensure a spot during sunset, and you’re set for a memorable evening.

While the music quality and food ratings vary, many guests leave with positive memories, especially of the breathtaking sunset views and friendly staff. The cruise strikes a good balance between affordability and enjoyment, making it suitable for a broad range of travelers.

If you’re after a casual, scenic experience with some Southern flavor, this cruise will serve you well. Just keep your expectations in check regarding the live music and cuisine. It’s a charming way to cap off a day in Charleston—especially if you’re in the mood for a gentle cruise, good company, and classic southern barbecue.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parking included or do I need to find my own?
Parking is not included. Paid parking is available on-site at the Charleston Maritime Center.

Can I buy alcoholic beverages during the cruise?
Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase onboard, but they are not included in the ticket price.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and music.

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult, and most travelers can participate.

What happens if the weather is bad?
This tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this experience is booked about 26 days in advance, so planning ahead helps secure your spot.

Whether you’re after a relaxed evening with scenic views, some hearty Southern BBQ, or just want to experience Charleston from the water, the Sunset Blues & BBQ Dinner Cruise has elements that many will enjoy. Just remember that your experience may depend on the day’s weather, the band, and your expectations for food and entertainment. Happy cruising!