Hilton Head Island: Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise

Imagine savoring fresh local shrimp and sausage while gently drifting along the coast of Hilton Head Island during a beautiful sunset. That’s the essence of the Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise offered by Island Head. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, the detailed reviews and descriptions suggest it’s an experience worth considering if you’re after a relaxed, authentic taste of the South’s maritime culture.

Two standout features catch our eye. First, the home-cooked Lowcountry seafood served hot and fresh is an irresistible draw—imagine corn on the cob and red potatoes soaking up all that flavorful broth. Second, the included drinks—wine, beer, or soft drinks—make it a great opportunity to toast to a memorable evening. A potential consideration is the limited capacity, which means planning ahead is wise, especially during peak seasons. This cruise generally appeals to those wanting a casual, scenic dinner in a friendly, intimate setting—ideal for couples, families, or small groups celebrating a special occasion.

Key Points

• Authentic Southern cuisine served fresh on the water.
• Scenic, two-hour cruise with views of Hilton Head Island at sunset.
• Two complimentary drinks included, enhancing the relaxed atmosphere.
• Spacious, shaded seating for comfort during the cruise.
• Limited capacity and advance booking recommended for an intimate experience.
• Perfect for casual dining and soaking up the Lowcountry vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise

This isn’t your typical dinner cruise. Instead, it offers a laid-back, authentic experience centered around local seafood and scenic views. Once you arrive at the meeting point, you’ll head down the wooden pier to the floating white building, where you’ll check in and board the vessel, affectionately named Bonjour.

The boat’s spacious seating and shaded areas mean you can relax comfortably, whether you’re soaking up the sunset or chatting with fellow travelers. The cruise lasts about two hours, generally scheduled in the evening, and runs on Wednesdays and Fridays starting June 11th, 2025. Because of the limited capacity, booking ahead is a must—especially during busy seasons or weekends.

The Seafood Feast

Once underway, expect to be served a traditional seafood boil. The dish features local shrimp, smoked sausage, corn on the cob, and red potatoes. All are cooked fresh and served hot, soaked in a flavorful broth that embodies the Lowcountry’s culinary style. Comments from past guests highlight that the meal is “a taste of the South” and “delicious and filling.” It’s a hearty, casual meal designed for sharing and enjoying in good company.

Drinks and Atmosphere

Included in your ticket are two drinks, which can be wine, beer, or soft drinks. This setup encourages a relaxed, toast-ready vibe—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The friendly, informal environment aboard Bonjour has been described as “laid-back and welcoming,” making it a great choice for travelers seeking authenticity without pretension.

Scenic and Sunset Views

As the boat glides along, you’ll enjoy golden-hour views of the island, with the chance to see wildlife or just soak in the peaceful waters. Past guests note that the scenery is “beautiful and calming,” and the cruise offers plenty of opportunities to take photos or simply enjoy the moment.

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The Experience in Detail

The cruise is designed for comfort and intimacy, with spacious seating that allows everyone to enjoy the views. The boat’s shaded areas ensure that you stay cool, even if the sun is strong earlier in the day. The two-hour duration feels just right—not too long to be tiring, yet enough to savor the environment and the meal.

Meal Quality and Authenticity

While the menu is straightforward—seafood, sausage, corn, and potatoes—the emphasis on local ingredients adds extra flavor and authenticity. Guests have expressed satisfaction with the hot, fresh service and the generous portions. The broth in the boil is said to be flavorful, embodying the spirit of the Lowcountry culinary tradition.

Value and Cost

At $118 per person, this cruise is a solid value for an evening of casual fine dining combined with scenic cruising. The inclusion of two drinks, the seafood meal, and the intimate setting makes it a compelling option for those wanting an authentic, hassle-free experience. Keep in mind that additional drinks beyond the two are not included, so if you enjoy your libations, bringing extra cash or planning to purchase more onboard might be wise.

Authenticity and Guest Reviews

Guests tend to praise the cruise for its authentic local flavor and friendly atmosphere. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the meal was served hot and the relaxed environment made it feel like a true Lowcountry gathering.” Others appreciated the scenic views and described the experience as “perfect for unwinding after a busy day.” The limited capacity was also a plus, creating a sense of intimacy and connection with fellow travelers.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Advance booking is highly recommended due to limited capacity, especially during peak seasons.
• Arrive early at the floating check-in to avoid missing your spot.
• Come hungry—this hearty meal is quite filling.
• Bring your camera to capture the sunset and the beautiful waters.
• Remember, additional drinks are not included beyond the two free ones.
• The cruise runs Wednesday and Friday evenings, so plan accordingly.
• The experience is suited for those relaxed, informal evenings, not formal dining or large groups seeking a loud party atmosphere.

The Sum Up

The Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise from Hilton Head offers a relaxed, authentic taste of the South with scenic views, friendly atmosphere, and a hearty seafood meal. It’s best suited for travelers looking for a casual, intimate experience where they can enjoy local flavors and sunset vistas without fuss.

While it’s not a high-energy event, the combination of comfort, authenticity, and the beautiful setting makes it a memorable way to spend an evening. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to enjoy the Lowcountry’s maritime charm, this cruise fits the bill nicely.

If you’re after an experience that combines delicious regional cuisine with scenic water views in a laid-back environment, this cruise is likely to hit the spot. It’s a wonderful way to see Hilton Head from the water while indulging in a true taste of Southern hospitality.

How long is the Lowcountry Boil Dinner Cruise?
The cruise lasts about two hours, typically scheduled in the evening, making it a manageable and enjoyable outing.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes a seafood boil dinner with local shrimp, sausage, corn, and potatoes, plus two complimentary drinks—wine, beer, or soft drinks.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, beyond the two included drinks, any extra beverages or extras are not included in the price and can be purchased separately on board.

How do I know if I should book in advance?
Since the cruise has limited capacity and runs only on Wednesdays and Fridays, booking ahead is highly recommended to secure your spot.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
The meeting point is at the long wooden pier, at the white floating Island Head Check-In building located to the left of the pier.

Is this cruise suitable for families or kids?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the relaxed, casual environment and focus on scenic dining suggest it’s suitable for families, but check with the provider for specific policies.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is perfect. Bring a layer if you think it might get cool at sunset, and don’t forget your camera for the views.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Set sail on this charming Lowcountry dinner cruise for a taste of Hilton Head’s maritime hospitality, scenic beauty, and authentic Southern flavors—an evening to remember.

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