If you’re looking for a laid-back evening with good food, music, and peaceful views, the Indian River Queen dinner cruise offers just that. This experience is perfect for anyone wanting to unwind while taking in the sights of the Indian River Lagoon. From live tunes to a tasty BBQ buffet, it’s designed to be a memorable, casual night on the water.
What really stands out about this cruise are the open decks—especially topside, where you can soak in the scenery and maybe even do a bit of moon gazing. Plus, the delicious BBQ and friendly vibe make it a solid choice for a relaxing outing. That said, it’s not a fancy dinner affair, so if you’re after gourmet cuisine or a more structured experience, this might not hit all those marks.
One thing to keep in mind is that the dinner is served buffet-style, which might mean waiting a little for your food, and it’s primarily BBQ, so it’s casual fare. Also, alcoholic drinks are not included, so if you want a cocktail or beer, you’ll need to bring your own or purchase at the bar. This cruise suits travelers looking for a mellow evening with good company, scenic views, and a touch of live music.
If that sounds appealing, keep reading—this review will walk through every aspect of the tour, sharing honest insights and highlighting what makes it worth considering.
Key Points
- Relaxed, scenic cruise experience along the Indian River Lagoon
- Delicious BBQ buffet with juicy meats and flavorful sauces
- Multiple decks for different views and atmospheres
- Live music adds to the casual, fun vibe
- Affordable price point around $79 per person
- Boarding early at 6:30 PM for a smooth start
- Alcoholic beverages are paid separately
- Suitable for most travelers looking for a relaxed evening out
What to Expect on the Indian River Queen Dinner Cruise
The Indian River Queen cruise is designed to be a comfortable, friendly evening outing. It lasts approximately three hours, beginning at 6:30 PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and the company. Boarding is straightforward at the Cocoa Village Marina, and you’ll get a keepsake photo on the bow—an easy and nice touch to remember your night.
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The Itinerary Breakdown
Once onboard, you’ll notice that all three decks are open. This flexibility is great — whether you prefer to stay indoors in the dining room or venture up top for the cooler air and better views, you’re free to move around. The main deck houses the dining room and main bar, where the buffet is set up, and where most guests tend to gather during dinner.
The second deck, Penny’s Party Deck, is a lively spot with its own bar. It’s perfect if you want a more casual, social setting. The top deck is the spot you’ll want for scenic viewing, moon gazing, or just relaxing while watching the lush riverbanks glide by. Many reviews mention how peaceful and picturesque the views are, especially at sunset or under a starry sky.
Dining Experience
The dinner buffet features Crydermans BBQ, with pulled pork and smoked turkey breast, served alongside sauces like Swisha Sweet and Swisha Heat. The menu also includes creamy mac ‘n’ cheese, smoked beans, Hawaiian rolls, pickles, and onions, plus desserts. The food, based on reviews, is surprisingly good—juicy, tender meats, and flavorful sauces that elevate the simple buffet.
One reviewer even shared, “The staff was extremely friendly and welcoming, and I cannot say enough about the food. We thought buffet style was going to be your average dry chicken, tough beef, and it was not at all! There were three different meats, and each was delicious, juicy, tender, and wonderful.” That’s a pretty solid endorsement for a cruise buffet.
Live Music & Atmosphere
The live music adds a lively touch to the evening. It’s typically from the ’60s, which some guests find nostalgic and enjoyable. The overall vibe is casual and friendly, encouraging dancing or just relaxing with a drink and good company.
Views & Sights
The cruise travels along the gentle Indian River Lagoon, offering stunning scenery along the riverbanks. Passengers often praise the views, especially during sunset or when moonlight reflects off the water. The top deck is the best place for scenic views or a quiet moment, while the main deck allows for more socializing and dining.
Special Moments & Highlights
Some reviews mention fun extras like rocket launches from the nearby space center, which add a unique excitement if timed right. Others appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, perfect for couples or small groups wanting a romantic or relaxed outing.
The Experience Through Reviews
From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that this cruise excels in friendly staff, delicious food, and great scenery. One guest shared, “The entire experience was great. The staff was very friendly,” emphasizing the welcoming atmosphere.
The food receives high praise—”juicy, tender, and flavorful,” making it a step above typical buffet fare. Guests also love the live music, describing it as well-suited to the casual vibe.
On the downside, some mention that food service can be a little disorganized, and that the dinner may arrive late or be slightly cold at times. One review pointed out that the menu on the website differed slightly from what was served, but everyone agreed the quality was still good.
Another consideration is that alcohol is not included, so if you’re planning to sip on wine or beer, be prepared to pay extra or bring your own.
Who Would Enjoy This Experience?
This cruise is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, no-frills evening on the water. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a scenic backdrop with some good tunes and tasty BBQ. Families might enjoy it, too, if they’re okay with the casual environment. However, since most reviews focus on adults, it’s not specifically tailored for kids.
Practical Details: What You Need to Know
- Pricing: $79 per person, which is fair considering the buffet, live music, and scenic cruise. It’s a good value for a laid-back evening.
- Duration: About 3 hours, starting at 6:30 PM with boarding, making it a nice way to kick off your evening.
- Meeting Point: Cocoa Village Marina — easy to find and well-organized.
- Inclusions: BBQ buffet, coffee/tea, live music.
- Not Included: Alcoholic drinks, which are sold separately.
- Cancelation policy: Full refunds available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility for last-minute plans.
Final Thoughts: Is This Cruise Right for You?
If you’re after a relaxed, scenic evening with delicious BBQ and live music, this cruise hits the mark. It’s particularly good if you love waterfront views, enjoy casual dining, and don’t mind a warm, friendly atmosphere that isn’t overly formal.
It’s also a solid choice for those who want to combine a bit of sightseeing with good food and easygoing entertainment. The open decks, especially the top deck, make it easy to enjoy the natural beauty of the river and the starry sky, adding a special touch to the experience.
However, if you’re expecting a high-end dinner or an evening with included drinks, you might find this experience somewhat simple. Also, if you require specific dietary accommodations or a more structured, timed event, this cruise’s casual buffet and flexible timing might not suit you.
Overall, it’s a fun, affordable way to spend an evening, especially if you enjoy good company, scenic views, and easygoing vibes. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just looking to unwind, this cruise offers a charming slice of Cocoa Beach’s waterways.
3 Hour Indian River Queen Cruise with Dinner
“The staff was extremely friendly and welcoming, I cannot say enough about the food. We thought buffet style was going to be your average dry chicke…”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this cruise suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family experience, children might enjoy the scenic views and fun atmosphere. Just note that the focus is on relaxed dining and music, so very young kids might not get the full experience.
How early should I arrive?
Boarding begins at 6:30 PM. It’s best to arrive a little before that to check in and get your keepsake photo on the bow.
Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included. You can purchase drinks at the bar during the cruise or bring your own if permitted.
What kind of music is played?
The music is typically from the ’60s, providing a nostalgic, easy listening background that complements the relaxed vibe.
What’s the menu like?
The buffet features pulled pork, smoked turkey breast, and classic BBQ sides like mac ‘n’ cheese and beans. The food is generally well-reviewed for being juicy and flavorful.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time. Refunds are issued fully if canceled within this window.
Is parking available?
While not explicitly mentioned, the meeting point is at Cocoa Village Marina, which typically has parking options nearby. It’s best to arrive a little early to find a spot.
To sum it up, this Indian River Queen dinner cruise offers a laid-back, scenic, and tasty evening in Cocoa Beach. It’s a good pick if you want gentle entertainment, good food, and views that make the sunset or starry night special. Perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to experience the waterways with a warm, inviting vibe.
