Murrells Inlet 2003 Boat Parade

Myrtle Beach, SC -
In June 1984, a few local citizens of Murrells Inlet met at Rosa Linda's to discuss the possibility of a July 4th boat parade. The idea was the result of these thoughts… "If Pawley’s Island can have a parade, then why not Murrells Inlet?" It took only one month to plan the first parade. Only 25 boats were hoped for that first year but they ended up with over 40 participants! It seems that everyone loves a parade. Especially boaters!

Best spots to view the parade are Murrells Inlet Marshwalk, Capt. Dick's Marina, Belin Memorial United Methodist Church and Nance's Restaurant and Hot Fish Club.

During the first few years, the event was family sponsored, with help from Food Chef Convenience Stores. Although no T-shirts were sold the first year, they began selling souvenir T-shirts by the 2nd year. Now in its 20th year, these T-shirts have become "special" souvenirs to the locals and tourists alike!

As the parade grew in size, the Jaycees stepped as sponsors; however, when the Jaycees eventually disbanded, the parade was again returned to the "locals." As they were looking for a new sponsor, a newly formed Boy Scout Troop, #396, of Belin United Methodist Church, was invited to "participate." Producing the parade and selling T-shirts immediately became a service project for the troop and all proceeds from the shirts were donated to the Scout Troop for any of its needs.

Four years ago, the Murrells Inlet Boat Parade Committee decided to honor one of the parade's founders, Bob Hendrick, by naming the first place boats trophy, the "Bob Hendrick" trophy. It is awarded to the best-decorated boat, based on originality, patriotism and theme.

This years parade will take place on Friday, July 4th at high tide, 11:00AM and the flotilla will be led by the Coast Guard, including the Grand Marshalls, local Fire, Police and Rescue Personnel. To participate in the boat contest, you may pre-register your boat at Capt. Dick's Marina, Marlin Quay Marina, Booty's and Garden City Realty or register the day of the parade with the Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce Office in Murrells Inlet. Trophies will be awarded to the Best-Decorated boat and dock based on originality and patriotism incorporated into this years theme, "Proud to Free in 2003."

Best spots to view the parade are Murrells Inlet Marshwalk, Capt. Dick's Marina, Belin Memorial United Methodist Church and Nance's Restaurant and Hot Fish Club.

Murrells Inlet is located in Georgetown County, SC, known as the oldest family resort area in the nation. The small community is lined on the east by tidal and salt marshes and is home to centuries-old live oaks. The nationally recognized 1,400-foot Marshwalk nature trail winds over the adjacent wetlands where you can walk among the wetlands and cruise the creek.

There are more than 30 restaurants in this "Seafood Capital" that serve mouth-watering delicacies prepared by award winning chefs from the bountiful seafood harvested just off the shores of Murrells Inlet. From the rich history of buried pirate treasure, to the ecology tours of the spectacular salt marsh, Murrells Inlet is a world apart with lots of FUN things to do! What better way to enjoy it all than the Murrells Inlet Boat Parade on the 4th of July. AHOY, Matey!