The beautiful ocean views beckon you to rise each morning here at The Strand Resort with most units facing directly along the Atlantic Ocean. Although, your balcony is the perfect place for you to take in the sunrise, where is the best location to watch the sun set? How about on the water, on a sunset cruise. The skies light up with the most breathtaking colors ranging from brilliant oranges, pinks and yellows as the sun dips below the horizon and begins to cool us off after a hot day at the beach. There are many ways to discover nature's handiwork, we thought we'd give you the inside scoop on some of the best sunset boating excursions in town. Here are some of our top picks.
Enchanted Sailing Charters: This charter is perfect for couples looking to celebrate an anniversary, birthday or just being together. The Enchantress is the largest chartered sailboat in the Myrtle Beach area, measuring an impressive 44 feet. Two cruises are available for those hoping to view the sunset in style. The PM Sunset Sail is a three-hour tour through Little River Inlet, passing the scenic Dunn Sound and the uninhabited Waties Island and Bird Island. The crew hoists the sails and heads into the Atlantic to give patrons a gorgeous sunset view over the coastline. Couples can buy tickets or reserve the entire vessel for a private sail. The Sunset Dinner Cruise departs the marina while you enjoy an appetizer, then anchors at Bird Island before serving a dinner catered by Snooky’s. The ticket includes a four-course meal, a three-hour cruise and a front-row seat to one of nature’s best shows.
Barefoot Princess Riverboat: This 64-foot-long, 24-foot-wide riverboat offers more than just a cruise down the shoreline. Guests admire the gorgeous Myrtle Beach sunset from closed and open decks, and dance to music provided by a DJ or live musicians. Join on the right nights, and the cruises may be timed to catch the fireworks at North Myrtle Beach’s Barefoot Landing. The Snack Bar is always open for visitors to purchase snacks and beverages. The 1.5-hour cruise is $23 for adults, $21 for locals and seniors, and $12 for children.
Express Watersports: This slow-paced cruise drifts along the waters of Murrells Inlet after departing from the company’s private dock. Patrons can watch the sun slip behind the horizon as they enjoy complimentary Inlet Rum Punch and wine while snacking on a cheese platter. Get your picture taken to capture the serenity and beauty forever. The one-hour cruise is $30 for adults and $25 for kids 12 and under. Express Watersports recommends bringing a valid government-issued photo I.D. and a camera. Groups with reservations must arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.
Crazy Sister Marina: A two-hour Beach and Ocean Sightseeing Cruise on the New Inlet Princess is a wonderful way to take in everything the shoreline has to offer. Patrons sail from the Crazy Sister Marina in Murrells Inlet and travel as far as the SkyWheel. Not only will guests enjoy breathtaking views of the sunset along the marsh and ocean, but it is possible that various types of sea life will be seen along the way. This vessel offers access to an air-conditioned cabin, a snack bar and onboard bathrooms. An adult ticket is $30, and tickets cost $20 for children age 3 to 12. Reservations are recommended for this cruise.
East Coast BrewBoat: The East Coast BrewBoat is a new addition to the waters of Myrtle Beach. This one-of-a-kind experience is perfect for those who love biking, boating and beer. Patrons pedal their way along the Murrells Inlet marshlands while enjoying drinks and music. Imagine having a couple drinks and laughs with your friends while pedaling yourself into the sunset. The cruise is BYOB (or BYOW), but cups, coolers and ice are provided. The one-hour cruise is $25 for an individual seat. It costs $325 for a private charter of up to 15 people. Though there are currently no age restrictions, you must be over 21 and have a valid photo I.D. to bring wine or beer aboard.
After an evening on the water, head back to The Strand resort where you can enjoy a drink from the bar or a moonlight stroll on the beach before heading to bed for a good night's sleep. Before you know it, the first peaks of daylight will be waking you up to begin another amazing day here in Myrtle Beach.
