rivership romance cruise sanford fl

Guided Boat Trips/Eco Tours

St. johns rivership co..

Explore Florida's St. Johns River and the wildlife therein while enjoying a curated meal and live entertainment on board St. Johns Rivership Co.

Explore the St. Johns River and the wildlife therein while enjoying a curated meal and live entertainment. St. Johns Rivership Co. is family-owned and operated in Sanford, FL. Board the Barbara-Lee in historic downtown to enjoy an eco tour that includes a chef-created entrée and on-board entertainment.

Location Details

Wine, Beer and Cocktail Bar

Review this Location

Historic Downtown Sanford: Craft breweries, restaurants, gastropubs, events, tours, things to do in Sanford, FL

Food · Drink · Events · Music · Tours

 We are a community driven blog that promotes the Historic Downtown Sanford District in Central, Florida as a food & beverage destination to a global audience for tourism, film locations, community events & investment.

Experiences

St. Johns Rivership Co Unique River Cruise Experience Under New Ownership

Over the last few years, Historic Downtown Sanford has become a recognized and preeminent destination within Central Florida for its events & experiences. From large scale neighborhood-infused music festivals to outlandishly fun sofa races, from golf cart & e-bike rentals along the Sanford Riverwalk to enjoying a craft brewery or food tour, from taking in award-winning shows and plays to browsing at art festivals, there is an overwhelming array of things to do in Historic Downtown Sanford.

Among the plethora of options, one of Sanford’s most classic and unique experiences, the St. Johns Rivership Co. and its flagship vessel the Barbara Lee, has taken tens of thousands of guests up the St. Johns River in their turn-of-the-century style paddleboat. In September of 2023, the Wyatt family purchased the business, and under their ownership, patrons can look forward to a revitalized and refreshed version of this authentic ‘Old Florida’ delight, along with first-class food, drink, and fun!

Meeting with new owner Michelle Wyatt on the Barbara Lee, I was quickly impressed by both the scope and speed of the upgrades and enhancements already in place, and the vision of what’s to come. Acquiring the St. Johns Rivership Co. on September 7, 2023, the Wyatts are now the third family to operate a dining experience aboard a Rivership from the Historic Downtown Sanford Marina since 1982. The Wyatt family successfully ran a software business for 22 years in Maryland, with a focus on event management and mobile app solutions. Michelle’s extensive experience in business development, her strategic vision, and focus on providing an elite guest experience to each guest already has the St. Johns Rivership Co. pointed in the right direction.

Wyatt appreciates that what her family bought is more than just a boat, and more than just a restaurant. The Barbara Lee is the only authentic sternwheeler sailing the St. Johns River, measuring 105 feet from stem to stern, and capable of having 194 guests lounge within its five stories and myriad decks, making it the perfect space to host events of varying sizes. Built in 1986 and extensively refurbished in 2012, the ship is a replica of the traditional stern wheel style boats that ran on the St. Johns River back during the mid to late 1800s, featuring ornate wrought iron railings and massive wooden paddle wheels. While cutting a path across Lake Monroe in Sanford, the Barbara Lee looks all at once part something out of a Mark Twain novel and 100% a good time. “We bought an experience,” said Wyatt. “We’re excited to give this great experience its next chapter.”

The Wyatts have wasted no time implementing many positive changes, including online ticket sales, equipping the Barbara Lee with WiFi capabilities, and enhancing the audio-visual capabilities on board. “Where I can immediately help this business is with the guest experience,” says Michelle. “This vessel and this business is a dining experience that has become a part of people’s lives.”

Wyatt’s passion for hospitality and appreciation for providing exceptional experiences to customers has now been directed towards this historic and historically relevant attraction housed in the Downtown Sanford Marina. Plans are unfolding over the next few months to refurbish the interior, including carpets and lighting, along with planned upgraded and modernization to the building located on Marina Island that serves as the St. Johns Rivership Co.’s ticket office. Additionally, “cross-generational” activities to attract and engage a younger generation such as “Pirates and Mermaids” and “Sailing with Santa” events are part of the vision, along with monthly drink specials and other exciting events.

Back to the “experience” you are getting when you set sail up the river on the Barbara Lee, the St. Johns Rivership Co. is a premier river cruise operator that showcases the stunning beauty and rich history of the St. Johns River region. This is a one-of-a-kind dining experience that combined food, drink, relaxation and picturesque waterfront locations. As the Marina Island Master Plan set forth by the City of Sanford comes into fruition, with the proposed bar, restaurant, and café overlooking the water and the fully refreshed and reorganized marina, Wyatt aims to have the St. Johns Rivership Co. anchored right amidst the action, adding to the amazing things there are to do in Historic Downtown Sanford.

Downtown Sanford Marina 433 N. Palmetto Ave. Sanford FL 32771 (321) 441-3030 www.stjohnsrivershipco.com

Daniel R. Lewis

Daniel R. Lewis is an Attorney, Realtor, and entrepreneur who is one of Sanford’s most prominent business leaders. Attorney Lewis has served on the board of directors for the Sanford Chamber of Commerce, as a Commissioner on the City of Sanford Planning and Zoning board, runs a large non-profit entity, and has otherwise been involved in countless large-scale growth projects in Sanford, Florida. He is a two-tour United States Air Force veteran who served his nation in time of war, is heavily involved in a variety of local civic, community, and charitable functions, and owns the most recognized legal practice in Sanford.

• Restaurants
• Craft Breweries
• Beer Gardens
• Bars & Gastropubs
• Leon’s Food Tour
• Loggerhead Lifestyle
• Tours & Experiences
• Social Media
• Things To Do
• Map of Downtown
• Attractions
• Film Sanford
• Performing Arts & Galleries
• Where To Stay
• Travel & Tourism
• Transportation

• About Sanford, FL
• Download Visitors Guide
• Growth Watch

• Back to Top

Site in BETA v4.1 © 2019 Community Marketing Online, LLC. All rights reserved.

Change Location

Find awesome listings near you.

Home » Orlando Attractions » Distraction Attractions » St Johns Rivership Co.

St Johns Rivership Co.

• Location: 433 N. Palmetto Ave. Sanford, Florida 32771
• Phone: (321) 441-3030
• Website: http://www.stjohnsrivershipco.com/

Things to do at St Johns Rivership Co.

Here's a totally different way to experience Florida,  its wildlife, its beauty, and its warmth. All while enjoying the very best in chef-prepared cuisine, live entertainment and endless hospitality in climate-controlled comfort. Family-owned and operated, the St. Johns Rivership Co. is the latest in a long line of sternwheelers that have been serving and sailing the St. Johns River for centuries. 

Did You Know?

Interesting & useful facts

Measuring 105 feet from stem to stern, the ship was built in 1986.

All enclosed decks are climate controlled by air conditioning and heating.

All narrated cruises include your choice of chef-prepared entrée, live entertainment, and endless hospitality.

Photos of St Johns Rivership Co.

News About St Johns Rivership Co.

5 Things to Know About Sea Turtle Season on the Space Coast

Florida’s Space Coast is a sea turtle’s paradise, with 72 miles of coastline, there’s plenty of space for these incredible marine animals to make their nests and…

All Aboard St Johns Rivership

Glancing out across Lake Monroe from the marina in historic Sanford you might be fooled into thinking you'd gone back in time 100 years. Making its way…

The Barbara-Lee

Welcome to the Rivership Barbara-Lee. The only authentic sternwheeler sailing the St. Johns River. Measuring 105 feet from stem to stern, the ship was built in 1986 and was extensively refurbished prior to its inaugural St. Johns cruise in 2012. Featuring ornate wrought iron railings and massive wooden paddle wheels, the five-story rivership accommodates up to 194 guests, making it ideally suited to host events of varying sizes. Plus, all enclosed decks are climate controlled by air conditioning and heating.

Grand Salon Deck

Seats 94 and features an elevated Main Stage, dance floor and well-stocked bar

Mezzanine Deck

Seats 40 and offers views of the paddlewheel and Main Stage

Lookout Deck

Seats 60 and features its own dance floor with a “lookout” through to the Main Stage.

Paddlewheel Deck

A covered open-air deck overlooking the wheels allows you to stay out of the sun while enjoying unobstructed views of the river and its wildlife.

Captain’s Deck

The topmost, open-air deck featuring benches and the captain’s steering cabin

Sip perfectly Poured Cocktails As You Stroll The Decks.

The Barbara-Lee features a well-stocked bar and a professional bartender ready to serve a glass of wine, beer or one of our Signature Cocktails. BEVERAGE MENU

Cruises & Fares

The Barbara-Lee departs from Historic Downtown Sanford almost daily. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED TO CRUISE.

All narrated cruises include your choice of chef-prepared entrée, live entertainment, and endless hospitality, as well as a well-stocked bar. Lunch cruises depart the dock in downtown Sanford Wednesday through Sunday with dinner cruises available on Saturday nights.

River Visit Luncheon Cruise – Wednesday 11am to 2pm River Escape Lunch Cruise – Thursday 11am to 3pm Saturday Luncheon Cruise – Saturday 11am to 2pm Dinner Dance Cruise  – Saturday Evenings 7:30pm to 10:30pm Sunday Luncheon Cruise – Sunday 11am to 2pm

*PLEASE NOTE BOARDING BEGINS 30 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE

THE BARBARA-LEE MENU

Once you’ve been seated, you’re able to select your entrée from The Barbara-Lee Menu. Should you have questions, helpful staff are on hand to answer them. Upon selection of your meal, you simply give your menu slip to your server. Then, just sit back and relax or take a stroll about the ship.

Entrées are chef-prepared to your liking and served with side salad, freshly baked rolls, chef’s choice vegetables and dessert.

USDA choice cut prime rib prepared to your specifications. Served alongside buttery mashed potatoes.

Tropical Chicken

Slow-roasted chicken breast with Parmesan and a savory mango-pineapple chutney atop rice.

Chicken Marsala

Chicken breast prepared in a Marsala sauce reduction with mushrooms and Parmesan and served alongside buttery mashed potatoes.

Chicken Parmesan

Grilled chicken breast with Parmesan cheese and marinara sauce alongside pasta and a side of chef’s choice vegetables.

Salmon Fillet

Thick-cut salmon prepared with your choice of Lemon Butter Sauce or Teriyaki Glaze atop rice.

Roasted Vegetable Lasagna

Layers of slow-roasted vegetables, pasta, marinara sauce and three kinds of cheese. Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in our signature Caesar dressing, with homemade croutons and Parmesan topped with your choice of grilled Chicken Breast or Salmon Fillet.

St Johns Rivership Shuttle

COURTESY SHUTTLE

For your comfort and convenience, a Courtesy Shuttle is available for groups of 8 to 14 guests. Shuttle availability varies. Prior booking required. Must have same pickup and drop-off location. Maximum 40-mile distance.

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

Rivership Romance

Type: Day Trips , Food & Wine , Romantic , Tours and Excursions

Last updated on June 29, 2015

10Best Says

433 N Palmetto Ave Sanford, FL 32771

407-321-5091

things to do

restaurants

Day Cruises

• 5 Clearwater Beach Day Trip with Pirate Cruise
• 4 Gray Line Orlando Deep Sea Fishing Tour
• 3 Rivership Romance
• 2 Scenic Boat Tour
• 1 Winter Park Scenic Boat Tour

Explore Orlando

• Real Estate
• Find a Home
• Submit Event

Select Page

Day 263 – Rivership Romance in Sanford FL

Jun 19, 2009 | 0

Rivership Romance

Since I work too much and probably won’t get to do this before my 365 project is over I wanted to still be sure to post something about the Rivership Romance in Sanford. It is currently high on my list of things to do but with my days completely overbooked I am running out of time.So here just a quick snapshot I took from the shore of Lake Monroe and schedule and pricing below. Hope that I will soon have a more detailed report and more pictures – taken ON the boat!

I simply love the idea of a dinner cruise or lunch cruise on Lake Monroe to experience Florida’s true nature. A cruise on the Rivership Romance is a fun thing to do in Sanford and friends have already told me that I definitely should check it out. On Saturdays you could even take advantage of a dinner & dance cruise! Can’t wait to spend a fun day on the water, enjoying some good food, cool drinks and fun music 🙂

Here a bit more about their schedule and pricing but be sure to call and verify as those times may change in the future!

Cruise Schedule and Pricing:

3-HOUR LUNCHEON CRUISES – $38.00 (+ port $2.50/person charge and sales tax) Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 11 AM – 2 PM Full meal is provided (made on board fresh!).  Bar beverages need to be purchased. 4-HOUR LUNCHEON CRUISES – $48.50 (+ port $2.50/person charge and sales tax) Tuesday and Thursday 11 AM – 3 PM Same as the 3 hour version but with live entertainment and obviously – one hour more fun!

SUNDAY BRUNCH CRUISE – $38.00 (+ port $2.50/person charge and sales tax) Every Sunday 11 AM – 2:00 PM Brunch and special live entertainment. Bar beverages need to be purchased.

MOONLIGHT DINING & DANCE CRUISE- $53.75 (+ port $2.50/person charge and sales tax) Saturday 7:30 PM – 11 PM The most romantic of all cruises. Includes a buffet of hors d’oeuvres and fine dinner. Bar beverages need to be purchased. Moonlit water must be great, I just wonder about those mean mosquitoes… So prepare yourselves!

A few more things to be mentioned about the Rivership Romance in Sanford FL:

• Reservation for cruises is required.
• The minimum ages on all evening cruises is 14 years.
• The boat is 98 ft long and triple decked.
• Gift certificates are available.
• There is also a private functions schedule available for Monday through Friday evening cruises. Call for more information.

Here is their information: Rivership Romance 433 N. Palmetto Ave, Sanford, FL 32771 1-800 -423-7401 Office hours: Monday – Saturday: 8:30am to 5:00pm (Saturdays until 7:30pm) Sunday: 9am to Noon

About The Author

Hi, my name is Claudia! I live, work and play in Sanford, FL. To top it all off, I am also totally in love with Sanford! My husband Jose and I are Realtors in Sanford, FL and help people realize their dreams of home ownership. We have two sons, Nicolas (2011) and Lukas (2013). I am originally from Germany, moved here in 2004. In 2008 I started Sanford365.com. I love everything that says creativity. Design is my passion, no matter if Graphic, Web or Fashion Design - and I am also into photography :) I'm also very social and love to hang out with my family and friends, be it for a kids play date or a fun night out ;)

Related Posts

Day 97 – free gift wrapping.

December 23, 2013

Day 105 – The last seconds of 2013

December 31, 2013

Day 129 – The Corner Cafe

January 24, 2014

Day 79 – Lights in the ‘burbs

December 5, 2013

Leave a reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

WHAT ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?

Never Miss a Thing!

Receive our free weekly newsletter!

YAY, you're in! Can't wait to share everything Sanford with you!

Support us by buying a Sanford Illustrative Map

Latest Listings

Check out this amazing property! It's a prime double lot located right in the heart of Sanford, close to the Historic Downtown Sanford, Business District, Sanford International Airport, and more! This residential property has no HOA, no CDD, and come

Welcome to your dream home! This stunning 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom residence offers a picturesque pond view, perfect for relaxing evenings. Located within a guarded gate community, this property boasts a screened-in pool with a luxurious spa, framed by

This is the perfect opportunity to own a pool home with the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility in the exclusive gated community of The Preserve at Astor Farms. This immaculate home, lovingly maintained by the original owners, boasts 4 spacious b

Under Construction. The popular one-story Cali floorplan offers 4-bedrooms, 2-bathrooms, a 2-car garage with 1, 882 sq ft of living space. The open layout connects the living room, dining area, and kitchen, ideal for entertaining. The kitchen boasts

Down Payment Assistance available!

Readthe latest issue of our partner My Sanford Magazine

Subscribe to our channel.

Never Miss a Thing in Sanford

Join our mailing list to receive our free weekly event preview and news digest. No spam. Ever. Promised! 

Thank you! Just one more step: check your email account now and find the email we just sent you. Click the link inside to activate your subscription!

Orlando Villas - Florida Vacation Rentals Near Disney

Privately owned florida vacation rental homes near orlando with private pools, rivership romance cruises.

Florida Guide > Other Activities

Viewed 71711 times.

Villa Owners: Upload A Photo To This Article

To upload a photo for consideration, click here . Please only submit photos relevant to this article.

Other Articles Viewed

The following articles were also viewed by people who looked at this one:

• Cruising – Shore Excursions - Going it Alone
• NASA Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB)
• An Enjoyable Quiet Morning in Celebration.
• JOHN GORRIE MUSEUM

• 321.441.3030
• [email protected]
• 433 N. Palmetto Ave. Sanford, Florida 32771

St. Johns Rivership Co.

THE BARBARA-LEE MENU

LUNCH AND DINNER

Tropical chicken, chicken marsala, chicken parmesan, salmon fillet, meatless spaghetti meatballs, entrée caesar salad, first mates meal.

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

World famous bloody mary, paddle wheel, captain’s punch, blue mermaid, st. johns sunrise.

Bud | Bud Light

Miller lite, michelob ultra.

— HOUSE WINES —

Chardonnay / merlot / cabernet, white zinfandel, — white wines —, pinot grigio, sauvignon blanc, — red wines —.

Mionetto Prosecco

Non-alcoholic.