Barefoot Queen Riverboat
Cruise the scenic Intracoastal Waterway on a charming paddlewheel boat, enjoying live music, delicious food, and stunning sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour views
Barefoot Queen Riverboat
Best Time
Golden hour views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Cruise the scenic Intracoastal Waterway on a charming paddlewheel boat, enjoying live music, delicious food, and stunning sunset views.
"A very pleasant and scenic trip, perfect with friends or loved ones. I can’t wait to do it again."
🎯 Book Sunset Cruises Early
Sunset cruises are popular! Book ahead to secure your spot and enjoy the 'super dope' vibes.
🍹 Ask Bartenders for Specials
Bartenders like Chris create unique drinks. Ask for his 'unnamed specialty creation' for a treat!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Cruise
Intracoastal Waterway
Enjoy breathtaking sunset views with live entertainment and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for a fun evening out.
Dinner Cruise Experience
Barefoot Landing
Savor a delicious meal while cruising the scenic waterway. A romantic and memorable way to spend an evening.
Live Entertainment
Onboard
Enjoy talented MCs and singers who provide music, history, and engaging commentary. They even take requests!
Scenic ICW Views
Intracoastal Waterway
Take in the beautiful sights along the Intracoastal Waterway from a unique paddlewheel boat perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Sunset Cruise Vibes
Intracoastal Waterway Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Sunset Cruises Early
Sunset cruises are popular! Book ahead to secure your spot and enjoy the 'super dope' vibes.
🍹 Ask Bartenders for Specials
Bartenders like Chris create unique drinks. Ask for his 'unnamed specialty creation' for a treat!
🎶 Request Your Favorite Songs
The live singers are happy to take requests, adding a personal touch to your cruise experience.
📸 Capture the Memories
Bring your camera! The boat and scenery are perfect for photos, especially during sunset.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Sunset Cruises Early
Sunset cruises are popular! Book ahead to secure your spot and enjoy the 'super dope' vibes.
🍹 Ask Bartenders for Specials
Bartenders like Chris create unique drinks. Ask for his 'unnamed specialty creation' for a treat!
🎶 Request Your Favorite Songs
The live singers are happy to take requests, adding a personal touch to your cruise experience.
📸 Capture the Memories
Bring your camera! The boat and scenery are perfect for photos, especially during sunset.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
While not strenuous, comfortable shoes are always a good idea for boarding and moving around the boat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Barefoot Queen Riverboat for its charming atmosphere, talented live entertainment, and scenic Intracoastal Waterway views. The friendly crew and reasonably priced drinks enhance the experience, making it a relaxing and enjoyable outing for various occasions. Some find the food on dinner cruises to be good, though not gourmet.
"We had an excellent experience on this cruise. The boat is unique and very cute. It was clean and cool (inside).The boat’s captain met us at the gangway and gave us tips on what to expect. Friendly bartenders greeted us onboard with ice water, very reasonably priced cocktails, beer and wine. Once underway, Les our MC, tour guide, and live singer entertained with just enough information and musical entertainment. Les took requests and sang (sometimes with his wife Audrey) in a way that added pleasure to this cruise without being too loud or detracting from friendly conversations. The cruise was about 1 1/2 hours down the scenic Intercoastal and I didn’t want to get off at the end. It was a very pleasant and scenic trip, perfect with friends or loved ones. I can’t wait to do it again."
Kristen Kajiwara
"Had a great time with this crew! Les killed it with the tunes and Chris was an awesome bartender- be sure to ask for his specialty creation drink- “the drink he has not yet named”. . The staff were super pleasant- the meal was just right. A great way to spend the evening. Worth it!! I’ll be back!"
Renee Rogers
"We had a wonderful time on the lunch cruise. So relaxing. The singer/narrator was talented and fun. His wife, who was also on staff, was incredibly helpful for the entire time. The entire crew was fantastic. Even the shuttle ride from the parking lot to the riverboat went off smooth as butter. Very organized. In the middle of a busy vacation, it was nice to take a moment and enjoy some excellent music and watch a rhythmic paddle wheel turn."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Barefoot Queen Riverboat is located at Barefoot Landing in North Myrtle Beach, SC. Parking is available, and a shuttle service often runs from the parking lot to the boat, making the journey smooth.
Yes, there is parking available at Barefoot Landing. The shuttle service from the parking lot to the riverboat is highly praised for its efficiency.
Barefoot Landing is a walkable destination with many shops and restaurants. The riverboat is typically docked within the complex, making it easily accessible on foot from many areas of Barefoot Landing.
Arriving a little early is recommended to allow time for parking and to locate the boarding area. The shuttle service is a convenient option if available.
While direct hotel shuttles aren't common, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in the Myrtle Beach area and can take you directly to Barefoot Landing.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased online through the official Barefoot Queen Riverboat website or at their ticket booth located at Barefoot Landing. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular sunset or dinner cruises.
Operating hours vary depending on the season and the type of cruise offered (lunch, dinner, sunset). It's best to check their official schedule online for the most up-to-date information.
Most cruises are approximately 1.5 hours long, making them a perfect length for a relaxing excursion without taking up too much of your day. +1
Yes, the Barefoot Queen Riverboat offers various cruises, including lunch cruises, dinner cruises, and sunset cruises, often with live entertainment.
Information on private bookings or charters is usually available through their website or by contacting their customer service directly. It's a popular option for celebrations.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is generally described as pleasant, relaxing, and fun. It's a unique experience with live music and friendly staff, perfect for enjoying the scenery. +1
Expect live singers and MCs who provide musical entertainment, share historical facts about the boat and the area, and engage with passengers. They often take song requests. +1
Yes, the cruise is generally family-friendly. The short duration and smooth ride on the canal make it enjoyable for children, and the entertainment can be engaging for all ages.
You'll enjoy scenic views of the Intracoastal Waterway, waterfront homes, and the natural beauty of the South Carolina coast. The sunset views are particularly stunning.
The boat is described as unique and cute, with a captain who meets guests at the gangway. While specific accessibility details should be confirmed, the smooth canal ride and organized boarding suggest a good experience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dinner cruises offer a meal, which reviewers describe as 'just right' and 'good.' Lunch cruises also provide dining options. +1
Yes, friendly bartenders serve reasonably priced cocktails, beer, and wine. They even have specialty creations! +1
This depends on the specific cruise package. Dinner cruises typically include a meal, while other cruises might offer food and drinks for purchase. Check the booking details carefully.
It's advisable to contact the Barefoot Queen Riverboat directly in advance to inquire about dietary accommodations if you have specific needs.
Reviews generally indicate the food is good and satisfying, complementing the overall cruise experience. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The deck offers great views of the waterway and the paddlewheel. The sunset provides a beautiful backdrop, and the boat itself is photogenic.
Absolutely! The sunset cruises offer stunning opportunities to capture the golden hour over the Intracoastal Waterway.
Yes, the cruise provides excellent vantage points for photographing the waterfront homes, natural landscapes, and other boats along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always a good idea to be mindful of other passengers and avoid intrusive photography.
Daytime cruises offer natural light. Evening and sunset cruises provide beautiful, warm lighting, with the possibility of some artificial lighting on board after dark.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Kids often enjoy the live music and entertainment, especially when the singer takes requests. The novelty of being on a paddlewheel boat is also a big hit. While dinner cruises are available, a daytime or sunset cruise might be more suitable for younger children's schedules. The friendly crew and the scenic views add to the overall positive family experience.
💑 Couples and Romantic Getaways
Even if you opt for a non-dinner cruise, the scenic views and the gentle rocking of the paddlewheel boat create a tranquil and intimate setting. It's a wonderful way to connect and enjoy each other's company away from the usual tourist crowds. The friendly service and the unique charm of the boat make it a memorable outing for any couple.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Look for deals or packages that might be available, and consider that the cruise provides a unique activity that combines sightseeing, entertainment, and a meal (on dinner cruises) for a single ticket price. It's a way to enjoy a memorable Myrtle Beach experience without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Barefoot Queen Experience
Many guests opt for the sunset cruises, which are frequently described as having 'super dope' vibes and are a popular choice for an evening of entertainment and beautiful views. The dinner cruises are also highly recommended, offering a pleasant meal alongside the scenic journey. The boat itself is noted for being clean and cool inside, providing a comfortable environment for passengers.
The crew plays a significant role in the positive reviews. Les, the MC and singer, is frequently praised for his talent, humor, and ability to engage the audience with music and historical anecdotes. His wife, Audrey, is also mentioned for her helpfulness. Bartenders like Chris are noted for their pleasant service and creative drink offerings, making the overall experience feel personalized and enjoyable.
Cruising the Intracoastal Waterway
The smooth canal waters of the ICW make for a very relaxing ride, ideal for those who might be new to boat trips or prefer a gentle journey. The cruise duration, typically around 1.5 hours, is perfectly timed to offer a substantial experience without feeling too long, allowing you to soak in the sights and sounds of the coast.
This waterway is not just for leisure; it's a significant route for commercial and recreational boating. Seeing it from the deck of a paddlewheel boat adds a touch of old-world charm to the modern-day navigation. It's a peaceful escape that provides a different view of the Myrtle Beach area, away from the bustling beaches.
Entertainment and Dining Highlights
For those opting for a dinner cruise, the food is generally well-received. Reviews describe it as 'just right' and 'good,' providing a satisfying culinary complement to the scenic journey. The bar service is also a highlight, with friendly bartenders offering a selection of reasonably priced cocktails, beer, and wine. Don't hesitate to ask for specialty creations!
The combination of enjoyable music, engaging commentary, and good food and drinks makes the Barefoot Queen Riverboat cruises a well-rounded entertainment experience. It's more than just a boat ride; it's an evening of fun and relaxation designed to create lasting memories.
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