The Spirit of Lake Murray offers public and private yacht cruises on Lake Murray, “the Jewel of South Carolina,” departing from her home port at 216 Shadowood Drive in Irmo. Purchased in 2022 by Lake Murray Tour Partners, operated by Norm Agnew and Rick Crout, the vessel underwent a complete makeover, including a rebuilt bar, renovated restrooms, and a new full-service galley, before relocating to Ballentine near Shealy’s Landing.

Captain Norm, a Chapin High graduate with more than 35 years of boating experience, previously operated the Southern Patriot, Lake Murray’s original tour boat, while Rick, a commercial pilot, and Tyler Ryan, a Coast Guard-licensed captain, round out the crew. Public cruises include History Cruises, Sunset Cruises, and seasonal Purple Martin Cruises showcasing the lake’s fall migration, along with themed events throughout the year like Live Music Cruises, holiday-specific dinner cruises, and brunch cruises. Every public cruise includes chef-prepared dining and drinks through the onboard Spirits Bar & Galley, with open seating across two indoor and two outdoor deck areas.

Public cruise pricing runs roughly $49-$59 per person for standard tours and dinner cruises (food and drinks purchased separately, plus a customary 17% service charge), up to $79-$100 per person for special dinner or holiday cruises. Most cruises run 2 hours, with Purple Martin cruises running 2.5 hours plus an additional hour for boarding. Children are welcome on any cruise, with day cruises the most popular family option.

Beyond public cruises, the Spirit hosts private events, from weddings and rehearsal dinners to corporate gatherings and celebrations, offering a one-of-a-kind venue with lake views, a full bar, and chef-prepared catering. Guest reviews consistently praise the crew for creating memorable experiences, with several reviewers specifically noting the sunset views, food quality, and attentive service, and at least one guest reporting they sold their own boat after experiencing the hassle-free alternative of a Spirit dinner cruise.

For anyone near Columbia/Irmo looking for a public dinner or history cruise, or a private event venue on Lake Murray, The Spirit of Lake Murray offers a highly reviewed, multi-captain operation with deep local roots.