All You Can Eat BBQ Dinner and Show at Tropical Isle with Sightseeing Cruise

Fort Lauderdale Jungle Queen Dinner Cruise & Show Review

Looking for an evening that combines sightseeing, a hearty meal, and some lively entertainment? The Jungle Queen Riverboat tour is a good pick if you’re after a casual yet fun way to experience Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. With a 4.5/5 rating from over a thousand reviews, it clearly resonates with many travelers—and for good reasons.

One of the things we like most about this cruise is how it offers a comfortable, narrated boat ride through the historic New River, giving you a chance to see some stunning waterfront mansions and yachts along Millionaires Row. The all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner is another highlight, with ribs and chicken served in a casual, family-friendly setting. Plus, the comedy and variety show at the tropical isle tops off the night with plenty of laughs.

That said, it’s not without its quirks. Some reviewers mention that the food quality can be hit or miss, and there’s a bit of a rush at dinner time, which might not suit everyone. Also, beer, wine, and snacks are available for purchase during the cruise, so if you’re hoping for included drinks, you’ll need to budget extra.

This tour suits those who want a relaxing, entertaining, and scenic evening without too many complications. It’s especially good for first-timers or anyone who enjoys a lively atmosphere with good views.

Key Points

• Scenic boat ride along Fort Lauderdale’s historic waterways with narrated commentary.
• All-you-can-eat BBQ featuring ribs and chicken with classic sides.
• Entertaining variety show at the tropical isle, involving comedy, music, magicians, and more.
• Great views of Millionaires Row and the luxurious homes and yachts along the route.
• Affordable and well-reviewed: many travelers feel it’s good value for the price of $80.
• Not a gourmet dinner—some reviews mention the food quality varies, and some wish for more vegetarian options.
• Booking details: Arrive 45 minutes early, with the cruise departing at 6 pm from Bahia Mar Yachting Center.
• Additional costs: Drinks are extra, parking costs about $20 if paid in advance.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most travelers, but make sure children are comfortable on a 4-hour tour.

The Experience in Detail

The Departure and Navigation of the River

Starting from the Bahia Mar Yachting Center, the experience kicks off with a fully narrated cruise that lasts about an hour. The boat itself is designed specifically for sightseeing, with comfortable seating and onboard restrooms—important details that make a long river cruise more enjoyable. As you glide along the New River, you’ll get a glimpse of Fort Lauderdale’s famous waterfront homes, from sprawling mansions to historic buildings like the Stranahan House, which is the oldest structure in the city.

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who share interesting tidbits about the area’s history and landmarks. One reviewer mentioned that the boat ride was “very comfortable and so interesting,” and that it far surpasses similar Miami harbor cruises, which is high praise from someone experienced in this kind of tour.

Millionaires Row and Waterway Views

The cruise moves along the “Venice of America,” giving you an up-close look at the lavish lifestyles of Fort Lauderdale’s elite. You’ll pass by yachts and mansions that span from the Bahia Mar Yachting Center to the Intracoastal Waterway, offering great photo opportunities. Many travelers, including those who said “the views were breathtaking,” appreciated how the boat’s narration brought the scenery to life.

The Tropical Isle and Dinner

Arriving at the island, you’ll step into a tropical paradise—think lush greenery, tiki huts, and a festive vibe. The meal is a classic American barbecue, with all-you-can-eat ribs and chicken, plus typical sides like baked beans, coleslaw, and cornbread. Some reviews mention the food is “good,” while others note it can be a bit rushed or lukewarm, especially during busy peak times. There’s no vegetarian option listed, but some guests suggest adding salads for variety.

During dinner, the atmosphere is lively, with live entertainment that includes music and comedy. The overall vibe is casual and fun, perfect for those who want a relaxed evening with good food and company.

The Variety Show at the Tropical Isle

Post-dinner, the stage lights up with a hilarious variety show featuring comedians, jugglers, ventriloquists, magicians, and a Polynesian revue. Many reviews praise the show as “laugh-out-loud funny” and “engaging,” noting that it’s a lively, family-friendly kind of entertainment. One traveler called it “America’s oldest running variety show,” which adds a bit of charm and history to the experience.

The Return and Overall Atmosphere

After the show, the boat slowly makes its way back to Bahia Mar, giving you more chances to soak in the night-time views of the waterfront. The cruise lasts around four hours in total, making it a substantial but not overwhelming evening activity.

Practical Details

Booking and Meeting

You should arrive about 45 minutes early—meaning around 5:15 pm for a 6 pm departure. The meeting point at Bahia Mar is easy to find, and many reviewers confirm that parking nearby costs about $20 if prepaid, which helps avoid surprises. The boat itself can accommodate up to 385 passengers, and the crew is generally friendly and accommodating.

Cost and Inclusions

For $80 per person, you get the narrated river cruise, the all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner, and the lively stage show. The review consensus is that this is a reasonable price for a full evening of entertainment, scenery, and food. Drinks are additional, and there are plenty of options for purchase onboard.

Accessibility and Family-Friendliness

Guests under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult. The boat features onboard restrooms and is designed for sightseeing, so it’s generally suitable for most ages. However, keep in mind the length of the tour and the nature of the entertainment if you’re bringing younger children.

What Travelers Are Saying

Many reviews mention that the boat ride is “very informative” and the scenery “breathtaking.” Several note the friendly staff and the good value—especially for those who appreciate a mix of sightseeing and entertainment. One reviewer says, “The boat ride was very comfortable and so interesting,” and others enjoyed the “good food” and “engaging” show.

A few critical points include some who felt the food could be better, especially the quality and timing of dinner—some mention that the ribs were sometimes cold or that the menu lacks vegetarian options. Others suggest that drinks should be included in the price, as extra charges for alcohol and snacks add up quickly.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a relaxed, fun-filled evening that includes a scenic cruise, hearty barbecue, and lively entertainment, this tour offers a lot of value. It’s a solid choice for first-time visitors wanting to see Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront in a casual setting, especially if you enjoy a good laugh and a drink or two (for an extra cost).

While the food might not be gourmet, it’s satisfying enough for most, and the views of Millionaires Row are genuinely impressive. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo, it’s a relaxed way to spend an evening without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

However, if you’re looking for a gourmet meal, a more intimate setting, or a completely kid-free environment, this might not be your top pick. It’s best for those who value a lively atmosphere, a bit of humor, and scenic waterway views, all at a reasonable price.

FAQ

Is parking available at the departure point?
Yes. Many reviewers suggest parking across the street at Bahia Mar, where prepaid parking costs about $20. Arriving early helps secure a good spot.

How long is the entire tour?
The cruise lasts approximately 4 hours, including the boat ride, dinner, show, and return trip.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your $80 ticket covers the narrated boat cruise, the all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner, and the variety stage show.

Can I bring drinks onboard?
You can purchase beverages, including beer and wine, during the cruise and at the island. Drinks are not included in the ticket price.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, but children should be comfortable with a 4-hour tour and lively entertainment. Guests under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult.

What are the main highlights of the experience?
Expect scenic views of Millionaires Row, an energetic dinner with unlimited barbecue, and a fun, engaging variety show afterward.

Are vegetarian options available?
The menu focuses on barbecue ribs and chicken, with no explicit vegetarian options listed. Some guests suggest adding salads to diversify the menu.

What is the best time to arrive?
Arrive at least 45 minutes before departure at 6 pm to check in and find parking. Early arrival also helps you get a good seat.

What is the weather policy?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This Jungle Queen cruise is a lively, scenic way to spend an evening in Fort Lauderdale. Whether you’re after stunning waterway views, a hearty meal, or some good laughs, it’s a tour that combines all three in a relaxed setting. Just keep in mind the food and drink extras, and plan ahead for parking, and you’re set for a memorable night on the water.