North Myrtle Beach: Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat

North Myrtle Beach: Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat — A Practical Guide to an Enchanting Waterway Experience

When thinking of North Myrtle Beach, many envision sun-soaked beaches, lively boardwalks, and water sports. But for a more relaxed and uniquely scenic experience, a dinner cruise aboard a classic paddle wheel boat offers a perfect blend of delicious food, stunning views, and onboard entertainment. This 2-hour excursion on the Intracoastal Waterway is designed to give you a taste of the area’s tranquil waterways while enjoying a hearty meal and possibly some live music.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? We love the authentic paddle wheel boat design, which adds a nostalgic charm to the ride, and the comprehensive onboard amenities — from climate-controlled decks to outdoor viewing areas. The well-curated menu and friendly crew also stand out, making it a good value for anyone craving a leisurely, scenic dinner with a touch of history and local flavor.

However, there’s a small consideration worth noting: the cruise is primarily geared toward a more mature crowd, especially with the entertainment choices and the relaxing pace. Also, while the price includes a substantial dinner, drinks beyond water and tea cost extra, so if you’re a fan of wine or cocktails, be prepared to purchase from the fully-stocked bar.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate scenic waterways, good food, and a leisurely atmosphere. It’s particularly ideal for couples, families, or friends looking to enjoy a peaceful evening out with a touch of Southern charm. If you’re after lively nightlife or high-energy entertainment, this cruise might feel a bit subdued. But for those seeking a relaxing journey with memorable views, it’s perfect.

Key Points

• Authentic Paddle Wheel Vibe: An iconic, traditional vessel that adds nostalgic charm.
• Scenic Waterway Views: Explore the Intracoastal Waterway and see North Myrtle Beach from the water.
• Hearty Dining Experience: Enjoy a well-prepared meal with options like lemon pepper chicken and Dijon pork tenderloin.
• Live Entertainment & Commentary: Fascinating narration and occasional music enhance the trip.
• Comfort & Convenience: Climate-controlled decks and outdoor spaces offer flexibility in any weather; shuttle service simplifies parking.
• Good Value: At $69 per person, including dinner, this cruise offers a memorable experience without breaking the bank.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The journey begins when you arrive at the Barefoot Queen parking area. Here, a looping shuttle whisks you from your vehicle to the boarding dock, ensuring a smooth start to your evening. The first shuttle departs about 45 minutes before the cruise begins, with the last pick-up just 10 minutes prior. This system helps avoid the hassle of parking directly at the dock, which can be limited or busy during peak times.

Once at the dock, check-in at the Barefoot Queen Riverboat ticket office, where you’ll get some friendly instructions before boarding the 70-foot wooden paddle wheel vessel. The boat’s design immediately sets a nostalgic tone — think old-fashioned charm combined with modern comforts. Guests are greeted by the crew, including the captain, who often shares fun anecdotes and insights about the waterways you’ll be exploring.

Boarding begins 45 minutes before departure, giving you plenty of time to settle into your preferred deck. The boat features two climate-controlled indoor decks—ideal for those who prefer to stay out of the sun or protect themselves from unpredictable weather—and three outdoor decks for unobstructed views. We loved how easy it was to move between these areas, providing options for both comfort and fresh air.

The itinerary primarily revolves around a relaxed cruise along the Intracoastal Waterways, showcasing North Myrtle Beach’s beautiful waterways and coastal scenery. The narrated commentary, often delivered with humor and local insight, helps you understand the region’s history, geography, and ecology. Multiple reviews mention how knowledgeable guides, like crew members Wes and Audrey, make the trip both entertaining and educational—adding depth that elevates this from a simple boat ride to a memorable storytelling experience.

The highlight for many travelers is the dinner itself. The menu offers a variety of classic Southern dishes like lemon pepper chicken, Dijon pork tenderloin, roasted potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and salad. We appreciated the thoughtful presentation and flavors that align with the casual, yet refined, vibe of the cruise. Desserts provide a sweet conclusion, and water and tea are included — a nice touch to quench your thirst after a day in the sun.

Guests can purchase a selection of drinks from the fully-stocked bar, including beer, wine, and liquors. Several reviews applaud the bar service, with Strawberry Daiquiris especially mentioned as a favorite. However, since alcohol isn’t included in the ticket price, those looking to indulge will need to budget extra.

The onboard entertainment varies, but many travelers have enjoyed live performances, with some reviews describing the singer as exceptional. While the music leans toward styles that appeal to an older crowd, it adds a pleasant, relaxing backdrop rather than overpowering the experience. Multiple guests noted that the crew and entertainment staff did a fantastic job making everyone feel welcome and entertained.

The cruise concludes back at the dock, with the shuttle service ready to take you to your vehicle. This seamless system makes it easy to relax and enjoy your evening without worrying about parking logistics.

The Value and Practicalities

Pricing at $69 per person includes dinner, dessert, water, and tea, which many guests agree offers good value. The main cost for drinks beyond water and tea is extra, but given the quality of the bar offerings, it’s a reasonable add-on. For the price, you get a two-hour cruise, a hearty meal, live commentary, and scenic views — a package that’s hard to beat for a leisurely evening out.

Timing is flexible, with starting times depending on availability. It’s worth checking in advance to pick a slot that suits your plans, especially since this cruise is popular during peak seasons. The cruise length of around two hours makes it manageable even for those with tight schedules.

One review pointed out that directions to the parking lot could be clearer, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area. Also, while the chairs onboard are comfortable enough for most, those with mobility challenges might find the hard seating less ideal. Rainy or unpredictable weather is unlikely to be a big problem thanks to the climate-controlled indoor decks, providing comfort regardless of the forecast.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This dinner cruise is ideal for couples celebrating special occasions, families seeking a relaxed outing, or groups of friends wanting a scenic, leisurely evening. It’s especially suited to those interested in the waterways of North Myrtle Beach and who appreciate a mix of good food, storytelling, and gentle entertainment.

If you’re looking for a lively party atmosphere or energetic music, this cruise might not be your best fit. But if you prefer a laid-back, scenic experience with a dose of local flavor, it checks all the boxes.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable in all weather conditions?
Yes, thanks to the climate-controlled indoor decks, you can enjoy the cruise comfortably even if the weather isn’t perfect.

How long before the cruise do I need to arrive?
Boarding begins about 45 minutes prior to departure. Make sure to arrive early enough to check in, take the shuttle, and settle in.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, water and tea are included. Additional alcohol and beverages are available for purchase from the boat’s fully-stocked bar.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
While many reviews don’t specify age restrictions, the focus on relaxed dining and entertainment suggests it’s best for older children and adults. Check with the provider if traveling with young kids.

Can I bring special dietary requests?
The menu appears to be set, but it’s worth contacting the provider directly if you have specific dietary needs or allergies.

How accessible is the boat for people with mobility challenges?
Some guests with mobility challenges found the chairs and walking around challenging, especially in rainy weather. The shuttle system helps with access from parking.

Is there a dress code?
Casual attire is appropriate, but many guests dress smart-casual for a nice evening out.

Final Thoughts

This North Myrtle Beach dinner cruise on a paddle wheel boat offers a charming, laid-back way to enjoy the area’s waterways. It combines scenic views with tasty food, friendly service, and engaging commentary, making it a well-rounded experience for those wanting to relax and learn about the region’s coastal charm.

While it leans toward a more mature crowd in terms of entertainment style, the overall vibe is welcoming and peaceful. The inclusion of a hearty dinner and the nostalgic appeal of the paddle wheel vessel make this cruise a good choice for couples, families, or friends who enjoy scenic, leisurely outings. The reasonable price and positive reviews reinforce that it’s a solid value for an evening that’s both fun and relaxing.

If you’re after a water-based experience that highlights North Myrtle Beach’s natural beauty and local hospitality, this cruise is worth considering. Just remember to check availability ahead of time, and you’ll set yourself up for an evening full of beautiful views, good eats, and pleasant company.