3 Hour Indian River Queen Cruise with Dinner

A Relaxing Evening on the Indian River Queen: A Review of the 3-Hour Dinner Cruise

Imagine cruising down the gentle waters of the Indian River Lagoon in Cocoa Beach, Florida, on a boat that combines good food, live music, and fantastic views. For $79 per person, this 3-hour Indian River Queen dinner cruise offers an inviting blend of casual elegance—perfect for couples, friends, or anyone looking to unwind while soaking in natural scenery and enjoying some local flavors. We particularly appreciate how all three decks are open for exploring, giving you the flexibility to choose your preferred vantage point—whether inside, on the main deck, or up top under the stars.

Two things we love about this cruise: firstly, the delicious BBQ buffet that surprises with its quality and flavor, and secondly, the variety of decks and ambiance, allowing you to tailor your experience from lively to romantic with ease. The cruise’s laid-back vibe makes it easy to relax, listen to live music, and enjoy the company of loved ones.

A possible consideration? The timing of the dinner and service organization might feel a little disjointed if you’re expecting a perfectly timed sit-down meal—some reviews mention the food arriving late or being slightly cold. However, this doesn’t seem to detract significantly from the overall enjoyment.

This cruise suits travelers seeking a casual, scenic evening with good food and live entertainment. It’s especially great for those who enjoy star gazing, moonlight, or simply unwinding on the water, making it ideal for couples or small groups wanting a relaxed yet memorable experience.

Key Points

• Scenic voyage along the Indian River Lagoon with open decks for varied viewing angles
• High-quality BBQ buffet with tender meats and flavorful sauces
• Live music enhances the relaxed, festive atmosphere
• Flexibility of decks from indoor dining to topside moon gazing
• Casual, family-friendly vibe with a focus on comfort and fun
• Affordable value considering the food, views, and entertainment included

The Experience in Detail

Boarding and First Impressions

As we arrive at Cocoa Village Marina, the atmosphere buzzes with anticipation. Boarding begins promptly at 6:30 PM, and the crew cheerfully welcomes guests, inviting us to take a keepsake photo on the bow—an excellent souvenir of the evening. The boat itself feels spacious, with three decks designed for enjoying different aspects of the cruise.

The crew’s friendliness sets an inviting tone, and it’s clear from reviews that many travelers feel welcomed and appreciated. With a maximum capacity of 85 people, this cruise tends to feel intimate enough for conversation but lively enough to enjoy a social atmosphere.

The Itinerary and Views

At 7:00 PM, as the boat gently pulls away from the dock and begins its cruise along the Indian River Lagoon, you’ll notice that the scenery is peaceful and lush. The top deck is a favorite for many, perfect for stargazing or catching the sunset if your timing aligns. The main deck houses the dining area and bar, where the live music adds a lively background to your meal.

Throughout the cruise, you can freely explore all decks—no restrictions—so you can switch from indoor comfort to outdoor fresh air whenever you like. The views along the riverbank are surprisingly charming, with homes, mangroves, and wildlife lining the waterways. Some travelers, like Mary, enjoyed rocket launches visible from the boat—an unusual bonus that adds excitement to the evening.

Dining on Crydermans BBQ

At 7:30 PM, the buffet opens, and the Crydermans BBQ menu impresses many with its quality. Featured meats include pulled pork and smoked turkey breast, paired with several sauces such as Swisha Sweet and Swisha Heat. One reviewer, Margo, raved that the meats were “juicy, tender, and wonderful,” which is high praise for a buffet-style meal.

The sides include creamy slaw, mac ‘n cheese, smoked beans, Hawaiian rolls, pickles, and onions—all classic BBQ fare, but with enough variety to satisfy different tastes. Desserts are also included, adding a sweet ending to the meal. Several reviews mention the food was better than expected for a buffet, and that it was hot and flavorful, which can be rare on boat cruises.

Guests can enjoy their meal inside in the Queens dining room or out on the deck, depending on the weather and mood. Some reviews note a slight delay in food service, but overall, the casual setup still allows for a relaxed dining experience.

The Atmosphere and Entertainment

Live music is a key feature, with bands playing from the main deck. The music often covers a range of genres, with some reviews mentioning ’60s hits—adding a nostalgic touch. The music keeps the mood lively without overwhelming, allowing conversation to flow easily.

For those wanting a more romantic experience, the top deck offers a cozy, moonlit spot for cuddling or simply gazing at the stars. The casual vibe means dancing or simply enjoying the scenery is completely welcome.

Ending the Cruise

By 9:30 PM, the boat returns to the dock, and the evening draws to a close. Some travelers mentioned the rocket launches or other sights seen during the cruise as highlights, making this not just a dinner but a memorable outing.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews praise the friendly staff, with one commenting, “The staff was extremely friendly and welcoming.” The food also garners rave reviews, with multiple travelers emphasizing how the meats were juicy, tender, and flavorful—a step above typical buffet expectations.

Others appreciated the laid-back atmosphere, noting it was “a great time with friends” and that the live music added an enjoyable layer to the experience. One reviewer appreciated the view of the rocket launch, turning a simple cruise into a thrilling event.

A few critiques mention food arriving late or being slightly cold, but these seem to be minor hiccups in an overall positive experience. The value for money is frequently highlighted, especially considering the included dinner, music, and scenic cruise.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Boarding at 6:30 PM sets the tone for an early evening escape. The arrive-and-board process is straightforward, with a chance to photograph the bow, which adds a personal touch.

Departure at 7:00 PM begins the leisurely cruise along the Indian River Lagoon. The open decks mean you can enjoy the natural beauty—from mangroves to distant homes—while staying comfortable inside or outside.

Dinner service starts around 7:30 PM, with the buffet offering savory BBQ meats and hearty sides. The casual, buffet-style setup fosters mingling, and the live music creates a festive yet relaxed atmosphere.

Throughout the cruise, the emphasis is on enjoying the scenery and company—whether you’re moon gazing, listening to music, or chatting on the decks. The return to dock around 9:30 PM** marks the end of the experience, leaving guests relaxed and satisfied.

The Value and Who Should Book

While $79 might seem like a moderate price, it includes scenic views, a generous BBQ buffet, live entertainment, and the experience of cruising on the Indian River Lagoon. The open decks and flexible seating make it a good choice for those who want a laid-back, social outing without a strict schedule.

This cruise is especially suited for couples looking for a romantic evening, small groups of friends, or families wanting a relaxed dinner with scenic views. It’s also a good option if you’re interested in moon gazing or catching a rocket launch—as some reviewers did—and want to avoid overly formal or rushed dinners.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise’s casual atmosphere and family-friendly environment make it suitable for travelers of all ages, especially those who enjoy scenic views and live music.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, alcoholic beverages are not included, but you are free to purchase drinks separately at the bar. Coffee and tea are included with your meal.

Can I sit outside during the cruise?
Absolutely. You’re encouraged to enjoy the topside deck for moon gazing, star watching, or just soaking up the peaceful river views.

What if I arrive late for boarding?
Boarding starts promptly at 6:30 PM. Late arrivals might miss the cruise or experience a delay in boarding, so plan to arrive on time.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, from 6:30 PM to about 9:30 PM, including boarding, cruising, dining, and returning.

What is the dress code?
The cruise is casual. Comfortable clothing suitable for an evening outdoors is perfect; no formal attire necessary.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the boat can accommodate up to 85 travelers, making it a cozy yet lively gathering.

Final Thoughts

The Indian River Queen dinner cruise offers a relaxed, scenic evening combining delicious BBQ, live music, and beautiful river views. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate casual comfort and want to enjoy the Florida waterways with good food and entertainment, especially in the evening light. The open decks, friendly staff, and varied scenery make it an accessible, enjoyable outing.

While it might not be the place for a formal dinner or a quiet, romantic escape with fine dining, its laid-back vibe and authentic experiences shine through. For travelers who love sunset or moonlit cruises, good local food, and lively music, this cruise hits the sweet spot.

In summary, it’s a great value for a memorable evening on the water—perfect for relaxed evenings, celebrating a special occasion, or just taking a break from the usual tourist spots. If you’re in Cocoa Beach and want a fun, scenic, and tasty evening, this cruise is well worth considering.