The 5 Best Cruises And Boat Tours in Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is famous for its wide sandy shores and lively boardwalk, but it also offers some fantastic boat excursions that reveal its waterways, wildlife, and history. Whether you want a relaxing dinner cruise, an educational harbor tour, or a chance to spot dolphins in the wild, there’s plenty to choose from. These tours showcase the area’s coastal charm, vibrant marine life, and local culture in ways that land-based sightseeing simply can’t match. Plus, with options ranging from all-day trips to quick sunset sails, you can easily find an experience that fits your schedule and interests.
If you’re looking to add a boat tour to your Myrtle Beach itinerary, this guide will help you navigate the choices. We’ve picked the top five cruises and boat tours based on reviews, value, and uniqueness. From historic Charleston day trips to dolphin spotting adventures, these excursions offer genuine moments and memorable views.
1. Myrtle Beach to Charleston with Horse & Carriage Ride, Harbor Cruise, Boone Hall
This all-inclusive full-day trip takes you from Myrtle Beach to Charleston, one of America’s most charming southern cities. The tour includes a horse-drawn carriage ride through the historic district, a Charleston Harbor cruise aboard the Carolina Belle, and a guided visit to Boone Hall Plantation. It’s perfect for first-timers who want an overview without the hassle of planning.
What sets this tour apart is its comprehensive approach—everything is included for about $215 per person. The carriage ride offers a leisurely look at Charleston’s architecture, while the harbor cruise provides a narrated 90-minute boat tour with live commentary. The visit to Boone Hall adds a touch of plantation history and Southern elegance. The tour also includes a boxed lunch, making it a true all-day experience.
Reviewers love the smooth logistics and the knowledgeable guides. “Bus driver Joe was awesome, on time, and informative,” one reviewer notes, giving the tour a 5-star rating. It’s best suited for travelers who want a stress-free way to experience Charleston’s highlights in one day.
Bottom Line: This trip offers an easy, well-rounded taste of Charleston with plenty of memorable moments. It’s ideal for those who want maximum experience with minimal planning.
2. North Myrtle Beach: Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat
For a relaxed evening, the Dinner Cruise on a Paddle Wheel Boat provides a charming way to dine along the Intracoastal Waterway. This 2-hour cruise features a 70-foot wooden riverboat with climate-controlled interior decks and outdoor viewing areas.
The highlight here is the chance to enjoy a dinner while watching the sunset over the water. The onboard bar offers beers, wines, and liquors, and live entertainment adds to the festive atmosphere. The cruise departs from North Myrtle Beach, with a convenient shuttle service from the parking lot. The experience appeals to those who want a combination of scenic views, good food, and a laid-back vibe.
Rated 4.6/5 with over 100 reviews, people praise the “great cruise and views” and find the relaxed setting perfect for couples or groups. Some wish for more diverse entertainment, but overall, it delivers a fun evening.
Bottom Line: This dinner cruise is a wonderful choice for a romantic night out or a special occasion, offering a balance of scenery, food, and entertainment.
3. From Myrtle Beach: Charleston Day Trip, Boone Hall & Cruise
If you want a comprehensive day trip, this tour includes everything from a horse-drawn carriage ride to a harbor cruise and a visit to Boone Hall Plantation—all from Myrtle Beach. The Myrtle Beach: Charleston Day Trip, Boone Hall & Cruise is perfect for travelers craving a full immersion in Charleston’s sights and stories.
The itinerary features a ride through Charleston’s historic district, a narrated harbor cruise, and a guided tour of Boone Hall’s gardens and house. The price is around $210 per person, and the day lasts about 10 hours. It’s a good value for those who want a structured, all-in-one experience with transport included.
Reviewers emphasize the trip’s seamless experience and informative guides. “The experience was very comfortable with a great driver,” writes one happy customer. The tour is best suited for those who appreciate a planned day with rich storytelling and scenic stops.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a convenient way to see Charleston’s top attractions, making it ideal for history lovers and first-time visitors.
4. Myrtle Beach Dolphin Cruise Murrells Inlet
For wildlife fans, the Dolphin Cruise in Murrells Inlet offers a chance to see dolphins in their natural habitat. This 75-minute tour aboard the New Inlet Princess takes you through the scenic waterways of Murrells Inlet, where dolphins often frolic and swim.
The tour is environmentally friendly and led by knowledgeable captains who know the dolphins’ habits well. Many reviewers describe the cruise as “enjoyable,” and some note that while they didn’t see dolphins on a particular trip, they still enjoyed the scenery and wildlife, including pelicans and herons.
This tour is affordable at $50 per person and is perfect if your main goal is wildlife watching rather than a long cruise. It’s best suited for families and nature lovers who don’t mind a shorter trip.
Bottom Line: If dolphin sightings are a priority, this tour provides a fun, quick chance to see Myrtle Beach’s marine life in action.
5. Myrtle Beach Sunset Dolphin Cruise Experience in Murrells Inlet
For a more romantic or scenic experience, the Sunset Dolphin Cruise offers a 75-minute voyage during the magic hour of sunset. This cruise aims to combine dolphin sightings with the beauty of the setting sun over Myrtle Beach.
At $50 per person, the tour is somewhat less consistent in reviews, with a 2.5/5 rating. However, many find the timing and views worth it, especially as the sunset paints the water with rich hues. The cruise also offers a chance to see other local wildlife, like fish and birds, along with the dolphins.
This tour is best for travelers wanting a gentle, scenic wind-down at the end of a busy day. Entry points are convenient, with the cruise departing from Murrells Inlet and returning there at the end.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a peaceful, picturesque experience with a dash of wildlife, this sunset cruise can be a memorable, relaxing option.
How to Choose the Best Myrtle Beach Boat Tour
When selecting a cruise or boat tour, consider your budget, interests, and available time. For a full day of sightseeing and history, the Myrtle Beach to Charleston offers a comprehensive experience, while the Dolphin Cruise in Murrells Inlet is perfect for wildlife lovers seeking a shorter outing. If you want to combine dining with scenic views, the Dinner Paddle Wheel Cruise presents a charming evening option.
Think about the time of day you prefer — morning, afternoon, or sunset — and match that with what each tour offers. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and time.
Final Thoughts
Myrtle Beach’s waterway excursions add a special touch to any vacation. For those interested in history and culture, the trips to Charleston are hard to beat. Wildlife enthusiasts will find the dolphin cruises particularly rewarding, while anyone looking for a relaxing evening might enjoy the sunset sail.
Each of these tours provides a different window into the area’s coastal life—whether it’s the grandeur of Charleston, the playful dolphins, or a peaceful dinner cruise. Choosing the right one depends on your interests, schedule, and what kind of memory you want to create. Remember, booking early can make your trip more effortless and ensure you don’t miss out on these delightful experiences.