St. Johns River Lunch and Dinner Cruises in Sanford, Florida

Active

(9 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Set sail on the St. Johns River aboard the elegant Sternwheeler Barbara-Lee for a delightful 3-hour dining experience. Enjoy a three-course meal served at your own private table, featuring a variety of enticing entrées and indulgent desserts. The atmosphere is enhanced with live entertainment, making it perfect for romantic evenings or special celebrations. With the capacity to accommodate up to 176 guests, this cruise offers a unique escape for individuals, couples, and groups alike.

- Scenic 3-hour lunch and dinner cruises available on select days
- Enjoy a delicious 3-course meal with attentive full-table service
- Live entertainment on the cruise to enhance your experience
- Full-service bar available for purchase

Available options

Theater on the River

Immersive Comedy Wedding Show: Prepare for an evening of laughter and chaos as a group of misplaced New Yorkers arrive aboard the Barbara-Lee for a wedding Duration: 3 hours: Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to the cruise time

Twisted Tales: A Villain Show

A Villains Cabaret: Delight in a devilishly good time as three Villains take the stage to reclaim their stories and reimagine their endings Duration: 3 hours: Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to the cruise time

The Grouch Character Lunch

Themed Entertainment: Join the Grouch, Cindy-Lou Who, and Martha May for an unforgettable Holiday Lunch packed with laughter, live music, & dancing Duration: 3 hours: Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to the cruise time

Sounds of the Season Dinner

A Caroling Cruise Celebration: Holiday carolers will fill the air with festive music as you dine, sip from the full cash bar, and take in the views. Duration: 3 hours: Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to the cruise time

Lunch Cruises

Duration: 3 hours: Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to the cruise time

Dinner Cruise

Duration: 3 hours: Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to the cruise time

Lights of the Lagoon Dinner

Entertainment: Step aboard the Barbara-Lee for a one-of-a-kind floating fairytale dinner cruise featuring Rapunzel and Flynn. Duration: 3 hours: Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to the cruise time

Italian Buffet Dinner

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to the cruise time
 All you can eat Italian Buffet: Caprese Salad
Baked Ziti
Chicken Parmesan
Shrimp Alfredo
House Salad
Dinner Rolls
Roasted Vegetable Lasagna

Sailing with Santa Lunch

Themed Entertainment: Santa and Peppermint Patty will be onboard to hear your wishlist and pose for fun family photos, so don’t forget your camera! Duration: 3 hours: Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to the cruise time

Wicked Themed Character Lunch

Defy Gravity: A Wicked Lunch: Step into the world of Oz for an unforgettable afternoon packed with music, magic, and theatrical flair Duration: 3 hours: Boarding starts 30 minutes prior to the cruise time

Thanksgiving Eve Dinner Cruise

Entertainment: Live entertainment for a festive holiday atmosphere Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes Thanksgiving Style Meal: Enjoy a traditional turkey feast with all the fixins, served with full table service as you cruise along the St. Johns River.

What's included

Guests order from a selection of 8 different entrees once they board the Barbara-Lee boat. Food is cooked to order. Vegan, gluten free and vegetarian options available.

Detailed itinerary

We cruise up and down the St Johns River. The boat departs from Lake Monroe in Sanford, FL.

What's not included

Guests are provided their choice of tea, coffee and water. Cash bar available.

Sodas are available for purchase.

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

6 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.3

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Restrooms are not wheelchair accessible. There is a raised threshold you will have to step over to enter the Restrooms. All levels except the main deck require navigation of stairs. If you are not able to navigate stairs, please reach out to our staff prior to the day of the cruise so we can seat you on the Main Deck of the vessel.

Meeting point

Go to the ticket station with the red awning to pick up your physical boarding passes.

Important notes

Physical tickets with table seatings are provided at the ticket station on the day of the
event. Boarding will begin 30 minutes prior to the cruise time. Please plan to arrive by the
boarding time to pick up your tickets and board the boat.

About Orlando

Orlando is renowned as the theme park capital of the world, home to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld. Beyond its famous attractions, Orlando offers a vibrant dining scene, luxurious resorts, and natural beauty with its lakes and parks.

Top Attractions

Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World Resort is the world's largest theme park resort, featuring four theme parks, two water parks, and numerous entertainment and shopping districts.

Entertainment Multiple days for a full experience Expensive (Multi-day tickets recommended)

Universal Orlando Resort

Universal Orlando Resort features two theme parks, a water park, and the CityWalk entertainment district, offering a variety of thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies and characters.

Entertainment 1-3 days depending on interests Moderate to Expensive (Multi-day tickets recommended)

SeaWorld Orlando

SeaWorld Orlando is a marine-life theme park featuring thrilling rides, marine animal exhibits, and educational shows.

Entertainment 1 day Moderate (Combination tickets available with other parks)

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex offers a fascinating look into America's space program, with exhibits, tours, and the opportunity to see real spacecraft and astronauts.

Educational 1 day Moderate (Special exhibits and tours may cost extra)

Orlando Museum of Art

The Orlando Museum of Art features a diverse collection of American and contemporary art, as well as traveling exhibitions and educational programs.

Cultural 1-2 hours Budget (Free admission on the first Thursday of the month)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Floribbean Cuisine

A fusion of Caribbean and Floridian flavors, featuring dishes like grilled fish, jerk chicken, and tropical fruit salsas.

Lunch/Dinner Can be adapted for various dietary restrictions

Orlando-Style BBQ

Slow-smoked meats with a variety of sauces, including traditional and sweet and tangy options.

Lunch/Dinner May contain allergens like soy and gluten

Fresh Citrus

Florida is known for its citrus, and Orlando offers a variety of fresh citrus dishes, including marmalades, sorbets, and cocktails.

Snack/Dessert Naturally gluten-free and vegan-friendly

Popular Activities

Theme park rides Water sports Zip-lining ATV tours Spa treatments Beach days Boat tours Shopping

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the peak tourist season with pleasant weather and crowded attractions. It's ideal for those who want to experience all that Orlando has to offer but be prepared for higher prices and long lines.

15-28°C 60-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Orlando is generally safe for tourists, with a low crime rate in tourist areas. However, as with any major city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air

Orlando International Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from downtown
Orlando Sanford International Airport • 40 km (25 miles) from downtown

By bus

Orlando Greyhound Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Lynx Bus system is affordable and convenient for getting around Orlando. It serves major attractions, hotels, and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Orlando International Drive Winter Park Bal Harbor Thornton Park

Day trips

Cocoa Beach

80 km (50 miles) • Half day to full day

A popular beach destination known for its surfing, beautiful beaches, and the Kennedy Space Center.

St. Augustine

180 km (112 miles) • Full day

The oldest city in the United States, featuring a rich history, beautiful architecture, and scenic views.

Daytona Beach

90 km (56 miles) • Half day to full day

A popular beach destination known for its racing history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Festivals

Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival • May Orlando Film Festival • October Winter Park Sidewalk Art Festival • March

Pro tips

Arrive early to popular attractions to beat the crowds and lines
Download official apps for theme parks and attractions for planning and reservations
Consider staying at an on-site hotel or resort for perks and convenience
Plan your itinerary in advance and prioritize your must-see attractions
Take breaks and stay hydrated, especially during the hot and humid summer months