salty dog cruise review

Salty Dog Cruise

Review Highlights

“ Planning with Lindsey was so easy and Captain Phil and the onboard staff were wonderful. ” in 4 reviews

“ Their early Happy Hour tours tend to be less busy - but that's probably because you won't see the sunset on those tours. ” in 4 reviews

“ They did not have a great selection of snacks on board, so we ate at the Salty Dog Cafe before our cruise. ” in 2 reviews

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Hilton Head Island, SC 29928

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Took the sunset cruise out of Port Royal and it exceeded expectations! The boat was so nice!! Pristine, lots of open air but covered seating options, great bar and staff. Awesome music. It was a very fun experience. We saw many dolphins! The scenery is stunning. We all mentioned several times how nice the boat was. We'll be return customers!

So much fun with music, dolphins, and incredible scary for our last night at Hilton Ahead!

This is my favorite thing to do on Hilton Head. We've done 3 of the sunset cruises. The boat is beautiful. It is new and clean. The bartenders and crew are friendly and the food is great. I will definitely do this again.

FUN! FUN! FUN!! The Captain of the boat was amusing and knowledgeable. The additional commentary and music selection was perfect "mood music" for the many dolphins enjoying mating season. Wish I could return in 10 months to see the multitude of baby dolphins .

This is so much fun and the crew is great. A wonderful opportunity to make family memories with our adult children, and to see the beauty of Hilton Head Island. We also saw a great fireworks display from the cruise.

Absolutely loved this experience! It was a great price and a great time. Captain Phil was funny and great at his job. We enjoyed our drinks and our crab dip that we had. We were able to see dolphins and see a beautiful sunset! I highly recommend this cruise to anyone visiting!

Amazing experience that I'd give more than 5 stars if I could - easily. Especially for the cost. This was an amazing trip and one that I'd say might even be a "must-do" on the island if you're into alcohol and boat rides. The captain was amazing, the staff were friendly, the drinks were affordable enough, and the entire experience was so neat all-around. So much wildlife, so many drinks, and such a great time. NOTES: -This is a 21+ cruise. No children or under-21 allowed. -The dock for this cruise is at the Salty Dog Cafe within the Sea Pines Plantation. You'll need to pay an $8 (or more depending on your vehicle) gate fee to get into the Plantation to board the boat. -Seating is first-come, first-served. They start boarding an hour before the boat is scheduled to leave. If you want a specific table, I recommend coming early. That being said, outside of a few tables, most of the tables are along the edge of the boat for nice viewing. If it's particularly hot out, the downstairs, in-the-shade tables might go fast though. -There are 2 restrooms on board. -According to the employees I talked to, the busiest days are their evening happy hour tours. Their early Happy Hour tours tend to be less busy - but that's probably because you won't see the sunset on those tours. -If you plan on sitting on the upper deck, don't forget your sunscreen! The lower deck is almost entirely in the shade, but the upper deck is completely sun-covered. -The boat requires three shallow steps (which are decently easy to take) to get onto the boat itself. Getting to the upper floor requires 10-ish very steep steps. If you have someone who's unsteady on their feet or unable to easily take steep steps, make sure to ask about it in advance. PROS: -While most dolphin and other tours on the island cost upwards of $40 a person, you can get on the Salty Dog Cruise for $15-19. I assume they make up the rest of the cost with the drinks which, honestly, are not super expensive. They're average bar-pricing which is way lower than I expected for boat pricing. -On our cruise, we saw way too many dolphins to even count. We saw a couple of sharks and a lot of other wildlife. The captain was insanely good and spotting them (and following them), so anytime he'd see anything, he'd point it out for people who were interested. If you're interested in seeing a particular thing, just let him know before the boat departs. The captain we had would have tried his damndest to find it. -On that note, the Captain was such an amazing person. He was super friendly, had jokes for everybody, was happy to chat, and had a lot of knowledge if you asked too. He definitely made our Cruise a whole lot better. -The point of this cruise is just to lay back, enjoy the views, and drink alcohol. To that account, every table has a clearly-printed menu (they even make food right on board the boat!) in addition to a pair of binoculars to look out at things. The bar is centrally located on the downstairs floor. -You're free to move around. The boat doesn't really "jerk around" much, but it is a boat, and you'll occasionally get some wake that'll make the boat wiggle a little bit. They're happy to provide a lifejacket to wear if you're super nervous, though, but the boat gets nowhere near that. We left all our drinks and items on the table and entire time and nothing moved an inch. -Chairs and tables are the primary seating. You can sit along the edge of the boat if you'd like (or if you find the chairs uncomfortable), and they have some booth-style seating on the upper floor of the boat too. As a bigger girl, I found the regular chairs they have to be a-okay, but your experience may not be the same as mine. CONS: -The bathrooms were a bit small - but they're on a boat, so I'm not sure what you'd expect. They exist, though!

See all photos from Kayla B. for Salty Dog Cruise

We had some family coming into town and our boat was on the shop for repairs so we decided to book a sunset cruise on the Salty Dog so our guests could enjoy the views from the water. The boat was clean and well maintained. The crew were very nice and helpful. They did not have a great selection of snacks on board, so we ate at the Salty Dog Cafe before our cruise. This was a fun trip and well worth the $.

Two words: Captain. Phil. This man is the GOAT! Our first cruise with him was in April, we knew we had to bring our friends when we came back in August. We didn't realize there was more than one captain. Not that the other captain did anything wrong, it just felt more like a dolphin watching trip than a cruise (we stopped for at least 15 minutes at one point). Since we left that cruise with more to be desired we found out the next night Captain Phil was on board so we went on the next night! What a difference it made! We had an absolute BLAST! Captain Phil incorporated wildlife viewing, plenty of dolphins, and some of the nearby islands including Harbortown Lighthouse all within the 1.5 hours, which even went a little over as a plus! Absolutely amazing. You can tell this man enjoys what he does and the attitude and vibe trickles down to the staff and patrons! We will be back Captain Phil!!!! Thank you for the wonderful cruises.

An awesome experience on Hilton head Island! Especially if you get great sunset. Wonderful way to entertain friends and family. Captain Phil is the bomb!

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Dolphins and sunsets !!!! And an... - Salty Dog Cruise

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This was our fourth time enjoying this adult only cocktail cruise. It is always a great evening... read more

Excellent sunset cruise — lasted exactly 1 1/2 hrs, plenty of room on the cruise with seats for... read more

Dolphins and sunsets !!!! And an awesome boat and crew !

Capt Phil and his staff did a great job ! This is a smooth experience and that’s why I love Hobie Cats and this is a double decker . Plenty of room to eat , drink , mingle and 2 bathrooms . The scenery was spectacular and we were surrounded by pod of dolphins . On the way back they wanted to play in our wake and Capt Phil obliged . Woo hoo !!!

Had so much fun on these cruise for my bachelorette. Phil was an awesome captain, even though the day started off rainy it was still a beautiful ride. Good, cheap drinks. Worth the $15! Also we saw several dolphins which was awesome. I would take my friends on this cruise again. Suitable for all ages.

Besides having a wonderful time for all of the reasons mentioned here, all of yesterday’s sales from the cruise — and from the restaurant itself — are being donated to the Bahamian victims of Hurricane Dorian. How cool is that?

And try the key lime pie too! Excellent cruise, cleanest marine head I’ve ever used! Fun people, great music, even danced with my guy during the sunset! Great value, where other cruises want to charge way more! Server at restaurant was SO friendly and helpful too, Ms Francine! Somehow they even held back the rain and storm! Crazy!

We went at 4pm because the 7pm sunset tour was booked. We were not disappointed. Saw numerous dolphins! Some were jumping and flipping in the air! Very friendly staff and great music. Food and drinks were reasonably priced and good! Would recommend this trip and it is very affordable!

I have been coming to Hilton Head my whole life and did this for the first time this visit. If you are over 21, enjoy a few cocktails, and love sunsets...you need to do this. It’s the best thing I’ve done in Sea Pines. Beautiful evening on the water, excellent service, and an unforgettable experience (and pictures) on the water. Highly recommend.

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SALTY DOG CRUISE (Hilton Head) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Flogging Molly's Salty Dog Cruise

DON'T MISS THE BOAT

The Salty Dog Cruise will return in 2025 aboard Norwegian Gem. Rock on the high seas with Flogging Molly and more to be announced!

PRO-SKATERS SHRED THE DECK

Don’t miss the sight of pro-skaters catching some Caribbean air, pulling sick tricks in front of even sicker views! Watch daily skate shows tear up the sports court – it's where the stoke meets the high seas.

NEW DESTINATIONS

In 2025, we're taking you to new places! We’ll sail from Miami to George Town, Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios, Jamaica aboard the luxurious Norwegian Gem. Explore amazing beaches and jungle-covered mountains alike at our new ports.

Unlimited Open Bar Beverage Package

You’re covered whether you want to start your morning with a Bloody Mary, soak up some sun with a frozen tropical drink in hand, or stay awake for your favorite sets with a coffee! Our Unlimited Open Bar package included for all guests ensures a seamless flow of beverages throughout your salty vacation.

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Great Cruise - Salty Dog Cruise

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Excellent sunset cruise — lasted exactly 1 1/2 hrs, plenty of room on the cruise with seats for... read more

We loved the Full Moon Cruise! We were able to experience a beautiful sunset and a Full Moon! The... read more

Great Cruise

This was our fourth time enjoying this adult only cocktail cruise. It is always a great evening. Whichever Captain you get, they are both great and so are their support staff which is all females! We love that it is ADULTS ONLY. Buy your tickets and have a great time!

Excellent sunset cruise — lasted exactly 1 1/2 hrs, plenty of room on the cruise with seats for all. Ship was so clean! Drinks were good. Captain and crew were all nice. Wished we had gotten on the boat an hour before leaving (as is allowed the ticket purchase) and ordered drinks and appetizers rather than going to the Salty Dog Cafe.

We loved the Full Moon Cruise! We were able to experience a beautiful sunset and a Full Moon! The captain and staff are very friendly, great music and we saw dolphins! Looking forward to going back for another Salty Dog cruise!

Called to make a reservation. Was told this dinner cruise was not wheelchair accessible. This is the same story with their competitor and a historic bus tour. Harbor Town was accessible but problematic. Access to entertainment and businesses in Hilton Head is not wheelchair friendly.

Absolutely fantastic! The crew is friendly and fun, making your experience even more relaxing and enjoyable. Simple appetizers are available along with a variety of libations but these are not the main show. The captain knows exactly how to interact with the local wildlife for an up-close but “respectful of nature” experience. This is my 3rd time on the cruise and each ride is unique and so special. This is the BEST valued cruise around. Can’t wait to come back!!!

We had a blast on the Salty Dog Sunset Cruise. They have a nice drink and "bar" food selection, highly recommend the pulled pork nachos. We got to see lots of dolphins and a pair of bald eagles. We approached a couple of old dockposts with a bald eagle perched on each one. They allowed us to get really close, maybe 30 feet. The song "In the Air Tonight" was playing and right when the big drum solo started they finally flew off. Everybody drank a little, everyone started singing along with the music and we all became friends for the evening. The sunset view was spectacular.

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Salty Dog Gastropub

By Ombud , October 21, 2022 in Princess Cruises

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So I'm looking for impressions of this specialty restaurant.  Looks like they've got some pretty good vegetarian options. Not as great as Alfredos / Gigis but still pretty good.

> have you eaten there 

> general vibe (jeans ok?)

> what's playing on the TV (sports?)

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On the Emerald Princess Salty Dog is on one side of the Wheelhouse Bar (same side as the right entrance to the Theater). I believe that the Crown and Ruby Princess has the pub shared with the Wheelhouse also. It's part of Wheelhouse not a separate restaurant like Crown Grill or Sabatini's.  No dress code that I ever noticed.  We would walk through the Wheelhouse Bar when leaving the theater to miss a lot of the passengers that exit on the right side.  Never noticed a TV there on the Emerald Princess.

Have not actually eaten there.

On the Emerald, Ruby and Crown it is located inside the Wheelhouse bar, starboard side. Seating is at not to comfortable high tables. On the Discovery and Enchanted it is located in the Piazza in the area where Vines is located on other ships. Seating on these two ships are regular low tables. It is casual dining. Jeans, shorts, and other casual dress is normal anytime.  It is open from 11am onward. There are no TV's on the Grand Class ships. In the video there does not seem to be any TV's on the two Royal Class ships that have this option. From the menu there are 3 veggie options. I is basically a bar eatery. By the way, pre-covid the cost was $12.

Ate there on the enchanted in Feb.  No dress code that I noticed, I had on jeans and a polo shirt which is my standard dinner dress.  I didn't feel out of place and didn't notice anybody in there dressed any way specifically. 

I actually enjoyed the food quite a bit.  I had the lobster Mac and Cheese as my appetizer and it was really good, the burger (minus the Jalapeno) as my main was also very good, if a little smaller then I'd like, then I had the strawberries and cream for dessert.  All in all I was happy with it and even if I thought the burger a little small I did not walk away hungry.

For value at $18 I personally didn't think it was out of the norm and I would go back.

I don't think there were any TV's but if there were I didn't notice what was on them at the time.

On Discovery the vibe was very casual. Jeans for sure. I enjoyed the food. Our table ordered a variety of dishes and all were reported good. I can't really remember what was on the TV. 

We had lunch several times last Spring on the Enchanted. Liked the Beyond Burgers. Would have dined more on our summer cruise, but it was closed for technical reasons. Hope it is as good on our upcoming Crown cruise.

LACruiser88

We have dined at the Gastropub several times.  The Beyond Meat burgers and fries are really good.

Our travel companions have had the real meat burger several times.  They also really enjoyed their dinner.

Well worth the upcharge in MHO.

https://cruiseradio.net/menu-salty-dog-gastropub-princess-cruises/

Wishing on a star

Recently saw a good review, along with other dining venues...  Pictures of the food included.  Look for the Gastro Pub in the video.  He also says that those shortribs were one of his most favorite dished onboard.

Here is another recent video,  from the Ruby.

I think there might be differences between ships with this venue.

I notice the Crown Grill Bar piano music here.  So maybe different vibe. I can't imagine a real dress-code here.

And the presentation and look of the calamari is very different between the two.

These two guys had a not-so-great experience on a previous cruise, but had very good food on this visit on the Ruby.

1 hour ago, Wishing on a star said: Recently saw a good review, along with other dining venues...  Pictures of the food included.  Look for the Gastro Pub in the video.  He also says that those shortribs were one of his most favorite dished onboard.  

It's at 24.28. I'm ordering what she did. 

Hahaha!!!   ENJOY!

In Grand class ships the restaurant is in the Wheelhouse bar (on ships that have one). On Royal class it is a standalone. No T V in Wheelhouse

We were not happy with the service or the meal.  But, it was just after the cruises started up and our ship was 50% occupancy and the service help was lackin.

We had to wait 15 minutes to order, we waited 45 minutes to get our hamburger, which was not cooked to our order.  I did not like the hamburger and we cancelled our dessert and left.

For the price I will not go back

chubbypiggy

18 minutes ago, roxievegas said: We were not happy with the service or the meal.  But, it was just after the cruises started up and our ship was 50% occupancy and the service help was lackin.   We had to wait 15 minutes to order, we waited 45 minutes to get our hamburger, which was not cooked to our order.  I did not like the hamburger and we cancelled our dessert and left.   For the price I will not go back

Which ship were you on?

1 hour ago, chubbypiggy said: Which ship were you on?

Either the Majestic in March or the Discovery in April.  Can't remember which

3 minutes ago, roxievegas said: Either the Majestic in March or the Discovery in April.  Can't remember which

I was on the Majestic in April and didn’t see a Salty Dog on board. The Discovery does have a standalone Salty Dog

31 minutes ago, memoak said: I was on the Majestic in April and didn’t see a Salty Dog on board. The Discovery does have a standalone Salty Dog

17 hours ago, billco said: Liked the Beyond Burgers. 

Not exactly on topic, but do you know if they are serving Beyond Burgers at the deck grill or do they still have their version of a "vegeburger" (aka fried paste)?

25 minutes ago, Kay S said: Not exactly on topic, but do you know if they are serving Beyond Burgers at the deck grill or do they still have their version of a "vegeburger" (aka fried paste)?

I believe fried paste. Been a long time since I have checked. Doubt the would have beyond burgers for free at the grill and charge $18 at he Gastro Pub.

2 minutes ago, billco said:  

2 minutes ago, billco said:   I believe fried paste. Been a long time since I have checked. Doubt the would have beyond burgers for free at the grill and charge $18 at he Gastro Pub.

You have a point!  I guess I was hoping in vain for a decent vegeburger on deck.  😉

We went to the gastro-pub in April on the Ruby.  I won't go back.

There was only 1 other table seated at the time.

We waited 15 minutes before drink order was taken, then it was another 15 mins for our food order to be taken.  20 minutes waiting the cold cheese and breadsticks, 30 more for the food to arrive.  Then we sat and sat and sat, waiting for dessert.  All together it took over 2 1/2 hours for mediocre food, poor service and our drinks were never refilled. 

For a couple dollars more, we can go to Sabatini's.  

Went to the Gastropub on the Discovery Princess. Total waste of time and money. Flawed concept.

startedwithamouse

On 10/21/2022 at 2:32 PM, Ombud said: So I'm looking for impressions of this specialty restaurant.  Looks like they've got some pretty good vegetarian options. Not as great as Alfredos / Gigis but still pretty good.   > have you eaten there  > general vibe (jeans ok?) > what's playing on the TV (sports?)

Yes, yes and there wasn't a TV.

Best food on the ship in our opinion. fabulous service too.

1 hour ago, stevenr597 said: Went to the Gastropub on the Discovery Princess. Total waste of time and money. Flawed concept.

What did you order? We found it delicious, and the ambiance and decor was relaxing.

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