The 5 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach isn’t just about sunbathing on its wide sandy beaches or hitting the golf courses. It also offers a surprising variety of cruise and boat tour options that showcase its natural beauty and rich history. Whether you’re interested in a full-day adventure to Charleston, a relaxing dinner cruise, or a dolphin-watching trip at sunset, Myrtle Beach has something to offer. Some tours combine multiple experiences—think a harbor cruise paired with a visit to Boone Hall Plantation—making it easier to soak up as much as possible in a single day.
In this guide, we highlight the best cruises and boat tours based on their unique appeal, value, and reviews. You’ll find detailed descriptions of each, including what’s included, who they’re suited for, and practical tips to help you decide. From scenic daytime excursions to evening dolphin cruises, these options provide a genuine taste of Myrtle Beach’s waters and coastal charm.
Quick Overview
This list features a mix of full-day trips, scenic harbor cruises, dolphin-watching tours, and sunset cruises. You’ll find options for history lovers, families, and those seeking a relaxing evening out on the water. The tours range from $50 to $215 per person, with durations from 1 hour to a full day, catering to different budgets and schedules. All tours are well-rated, with reviews emphasizing their engaging guides, scenic views, and authentic experiences.
1. Myrtle Beach to Charleston with Horse & Carriage Ride, Harbor Cruise, Boone Hall
Starting with a full-day trip to Charleston, this tour is perfect if you want an all-inclusive experience that covers history, scenery, and Southern charm. For $215 per person, you get a boxed lunch, a horse-drawn carriage ride through Charleston’s historic district, a guided boat tour of Charleston Harbor, and a visit to Boone Hall Plantation with a guided tour. It’s a comprehensive way to explore one of America’s most beautiful historic cities without the hassle of planning.
This tour stands out for its variety of experiences. The carriage ride offers a glimpse into Charleston’s past, while the harbor cruise provides stunning views of ships and historic sites like the USS Yorktown. The Boone Hall tour, with its famous Avenue of the Oaks, adds a deep historical context. Reviews praise the well-organized logistics and friendly guides, with one traveler noting, “The carriage ride was both informative and fun, and the boat tour was beautiful.”
Bottom Line: This all-day tour is best for first-time visitors who want a stress-free, comprehensive Charleston experience with plenty of photo-worthy moments. It’s a good value considering the inclusion of transportation, multiple excursions, and a meal.
2. North Myrtle Beach: Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat
For a relaxing evening, the Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat in North Myrtle Beach is a charming choice. Priced at $69 per person, this 2-hour cruise features a 70-foot wooden vessel with climate-controlled interior decks and outdoor seating. It’s designed to give you a leisurely ride along the Intracoastal Waterway, accompanied by dinner, drinks, and live entertainment.
What makes this tour special is its combination of scenic views and casual elegance. As you glide past waterfront homes, marinas, and possibly some wildlife, you can order beer, wine, and liquors from the onboard bar. The live music adds a festive atmosphere, and the commentary offers interesting tidbits about the area’s waterways and history. Reviewers appreciate the good food and relaxed vibe, with one noting, “Great cruise and views, nice crowd of friendly people.”
While it’s not a tour for adventure, it’s perfect for those seeking a romantic or laid-back experience with memorable vistas and good company.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or friends wanting a scenic, easygoing dinner cruise with the added bonus of live music and drinks. Make sure to check availability and book in advance, especially during peak season.
3. From Myrtle Beach: Charleston Day Trip, Boone Hall & Cruise
This day trip to Charleston offers a three-in-one experience that balances history, scenery, and Southern hospitality. For $210 per person, the tour includes a carriage ride through Charleston’s historic district, a boat cruise across the harbor, and a visit to Boone Hall Plantation. It’s a shorter, more focused alternative to the full-day trip, perfect if you want a taste of Charleston without committing to a lengthy tour.
The carriage ride provides a charming overview of Charleston’s ancient architecture and stories from your guide. The harbor cruise offers glimpses of key landmarks, including the USS Yorktown, with narration that adds context. Visiting Boone Hall, known for its iconic Avenue of the Oaks, rounds out the day with a historic plantation experience. Reviewers commend the professional guides and smooth logistics, with one noting, “Joe was prompt and very congenial,” emphasizing the tour’s reliability.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable day trip that covers Charleston’s highlights with good value for the price. It’s a great introduction for first-timers or those with limited time.
4. Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruise Murrells Inlet
Seeking a wildlife encounter? This Dolphin Cruise in Murrells Inlet is a popular choice, especially for families and animal lovers. At $50 per person, the 1 hour 15-minute cruise aboard the “New Inlet Princess” takes you through the scenic waters of Murrells Inlet, with hopes of spotting dolphins in their natural habitat.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on wildlife observation. The crew, knowledgeable about dolphin habits, works to ensure sightings. Besides dolphins, you might see herons, pelicans, and other local birds and fish. It’s a laid-back experience, with some reviews mentioning that, although they didn’t see dolphins on a particular trip, the boat ride itself was enjoyable and the crew friendly. One reviewer said, “Everything about this cruise was enjoyable,” even if the star attractions didn’t show up.
While dolphin sightings aren’t guaranteed, the tour offers a genuine chance to experience Myrtle Beach’s ecosystem up close, with the cost making it accessible for most.
Bottom Line: A good choice for wildlife enthusiasts and families wanting a quick, scenic boat ride with the thrill of spotting dolphins in their environment.
5. Myrtle Beach Sunset Dolphin Cruise Experience in Murrells Inlet
If you prefer dreamy sunsets paired with dolphin sightings, this Sunset Dolphin Cruise is the way to go. Priced at $50 per person, it lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes and offers a peaceful, scenic ride through Murrells Inlet. The tour is led by local guides who emphasize respectful wildlife viewing, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
The main highlight is the sunset over Myrtle Beach, with the sky turning vibrant hues as dolphins sometimes splash nearby. Most reviews are positive, with one guest remarking, “The trip was fun and beautiful, and we enjoyed the sunset.” The boat, like the daytime dolphin cruise, offers plenty of space and a comfortable ride, but because the reviews are mixed (some giving only 2.5 stars), it’s wise to keep expectations realistic—dolphin sightings at sunset aren’t guaranteed.
This cruise is ideal for romantic couples or those wanting a relaxing end to a busy day. It’s less about guaranteed wildlife viewing and more about atmosphere and ambiance.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a tranquil and scenic experience, especially if you’re a fan of sunsets and gentle wildlife encounters. Be aware that sightings are not always consistent.
How to Choose the Right Cruise or Boat Tour
When selecting your Myrtle Beach water adventure, consider your budget, time constraints, and personal interests. If history and culture are your focus, the full-day Charleston tour offers the most comprehensive experience. For a relaxed evening, the dinner cruise provides scenic views and entertainment without a long commitment. Wildlife lovers should lean toward the dolphin cruises, keeping in mind that sightings can vary. Finally, if you’re after a romantic or peaceful end to your day, the sunset dolphin cruise offers a memorable, serene experience.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular daytime trips and dinner cruises during peak season. Check availability ahead of time, and consider weather conditions—some tours are weather-dependent and may be canceled or rescheduled.
Final Thoughts
Myrtle Beach offers a variety of water-based adventures, from full-day excursions to intimate sunset cruises. For those interested in history and culture, the Charleston day trips provide a rich, immersive experience. Families and wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the dolphin cruises, while couples seeking a romantic evening can enjoy the dinner or sunset cruises. Each tour has its own charm and value, so think about what kind of experience fits your trip best.
If you’re eager to see Charleston’s historic streets, the full-day trip with Boone Hall is a standout. For a relaxing night out, the dinner cruise offers scenic views and good food. And for a quick taste of Myrtle Beach’s natural wildlife, the dolphin cruises are a fun and affordable choice. Book early, pack your camera, and enjoy the waters—your Myrtle Beach adventure awaits.