Imagine pedaling along the Alabama River on a brightly colored cycle boat with friends, food, drinks, and music—all in one lively package. That’s what you get with the Sip-n-Cycle Pedal Cruise in Montgomery. For about $63.51 per person, you’ll enjoy roughly two hours of fun on the water, on Alabama’s only cycle boat, a specially designed vessel that combines the joy of a party with the charm of a scenic river cruise.
On a recent trip, we found this experience to be both entertaining and surprisingly relaxing, especially if you’re looking for a different way to explore Montgomery’s downtown and riverfront areas. The boat departs from Riverfront Park, a picturesque spot right along the Alabama River, where you’ll load up, get a safety briefing, and then start pedaling upriver. The route takes you beneath historic bridges and past some interesting sights—including the old cotton mill and the site of Montgomery’s new waterpark—offering a glimpse of this vibrant city from a fresh perspective.
Two things we really loved: First, the interactive nature of pedaling makes you feel more involved in the experience. It’s not just sitting and staring—you’re part of the journey. Second, the sound system and lively atmosphere transform the cruise into a moving party, perfect for celebrating birthdays or just having a good time with friends.
A small consideration to keep in mind is that the tour requires a minimum of 7 participants to run, so it’s not ideal for last-minute plans or solo travelers. Also, since it’s BYOB, you’ll want to bring your favorite drinks and snacks to truly make it your own celebration.
If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities with a social twist, appreciate nice views, and love the idea of a flexible, fun-filled river adventure, this cruise is likely to hit the spot.
Key Points
- Unique experience: Montgomery’s only cycle boat offers a one-of-a-kind way to explore the river.
- Two-hour cruise: Allows plenty of time to enjoy scenic views and socialize.
- BYOB friendly: Bring your own drinks and snacks to personalize your party.
- Includes souvenir: A keepsake cup to remember the fun day on the water.
- Guided safety and music: A USCG captain and first mate keep things moving smoothly, with tunes to set the mood.
- Group size: Operates with a minimum of 7 people and up to 20, making it ideal for small groups or parties.
In-Depth Review of the Sip-n-Cycle Experience
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The Departure Point and Initial Impressions
Starting at Riverfront Park, the site is a lovely, bustling spot with easy access. The loading process is straightforward—just arrive a little early. Once onboard, the safety briefing is quick but thorough, which is reassuring if you’re new to pedal boats. The boat itself is colorful and inviting, with 12 stations around the cycle bar and lounge area, giving everyone a chance to pedal or relax.
The Itinerary: From Downtown to the Alabama River
The cruise kicks off by heading upriver under the historic Alabama River Bridge, a spot that offers a great photo opportunity and a sense of history. As you pedal along, you’ll pass a former cotton mill—a nod to Montgomery’s industrial past—and glide southward, passing beneath the I-65 Bridge, which is quite a sight from the water. The route then takes you toward the new waterpark and Air Force Base, blending old and new features of Montgomery’s landscape.
What makes this itinerary special is how interactive and flexible it feels. The guides (the captain and first mate) are friendly and attentive, making sure everyone stays safe and enjoys the ride. Jeffrey R. from a previous review appreciated that the crew gave plenty of time for preparation and made everyone feel comfortable, which can make a big difference if you’re nervous about balance or pedaling.
Views and Atmosphere
The scenery along the Alabama River is surprisingly scenic, with the city skyline, bridges, and riverbanks providing a constantly changing backdrop. The sound system adds a lively touch, turning the boat into a floating party. The reviews mention “good music” and “lots of fun,” which is exactly what you want for a casual daytime outing.
Who’s It For?
This cruise is perfect for groups of friends, birthday parties, or anyone wanting a fun, social activity. Since it’s BYOB, it allows you to tailor your experience—whether you prefer cocktails, craft sodas, or finger foods. It’s also great for those who want to see Montgomery from a different angle without the hassle of land-based tours or the expense of larger boat excursions.
The End of the Trip and Unloading
After about two hours, you’ll return to the Riverfront Dock, where the experience began. The unloading process is just as straightforward, and many people leave with a souvenir cup, a nice keepsake of their river adventure.
Is It Worth the Price?
At approximately $63.51 per person, the cruise offers good value—especially considering the inclusive elements like the souvenir cup, the guided safety instruction, and the lively environment. For those looking for a fun, social activity that combines outdoor exercise, scenic beauty, and music, this price point makes sense.
Authentic Experiences and Authenticity
What truly makes this experience stand out is its authentic local vibe—a chance to see Montgomery from the water while engaging with guides who are friendly and welcoming. The reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the good weather, both factors that contribute to a memorable trip.
Practical Tips for Your Ride
- Bring your own beverages and snacks to keep the party going.
- Arrive early to get comfortable with the setup and meet your fellow paddlers.
- Wear casual, comfortable clothes, and consider sunglasses or hats for sun protection.
- Book in advance—most trips are booked about 8 days ahead—and confirm your spot, especially if you’re planning during peak times.
- Remember, service animals are allowed, so bring your furry friends if needed!
- The tour is suitable for most travelers, but a minimum of 7 people is needed for it to operate, so gather friends or family.
The Sum Up
The Sip-n-Cycle Pedal Cruise offers a refreshing blend of activity, socializing, and sightseeing. It’s a lively way to experience Montgomery’s riverfront that appeals especially to those who enjoy interactive outdoor adventures with a party atmosphere. The knowledgeable guides and scenic views make this a memorable outing, and the BYOB policy means you can customize your experience to your liking.
If you’re seeking a fun, relaxed, and slightly unconventional way to explore Montgomery, this cruise is well worth considering. It’s particularly suited for groups wanting to celebrate, make new friends, or simply enjoy a different side of the city’s waterway.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable with pedaling and standing for a couple of hours. Service animals are allowed, so pet owners can bring their furry friends.
How many people are needed for the cruise to run?
A minimum of 7 people is required, so it’s best to gather friends or join with a group to ensure your trip goes ahead.
Can I bring my own drinks?
Yes, it’s BYOB—bring your preferred beverages and snacks to enjoy during the cruise.
How long does the cruise last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including time for loading, safety briefing, the ride, and unloading.
Is there a guide or crew onboard?
Yes, a USCG captain and a first mate are present to keep the boat moving and ensure safety, also adding to the friendly atmosphere.
What kind of music is played?
A sound system is provided for tunes, which helps set a lively, party-like mood on the water.
Where does the cruise start and end?
It begins and ends at Riverfront Park, 355 Commerce St, Montgomery.
Is advance booking necessary?
Yes, most trips are booked about 8 days in advance, and confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking.
What’s included in the price?
You get the souvenir cup and the guided pedal tour. Food and drinks are not included but can be brought along.
What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activity, plus sun protection like hats and sunglasses.
In the end, if you’re looking for a fun-filled day on Montgomery’s river, with friends or family, the Sip-n-Cycle Pedal Cruise offers a memorable mix of scenic views, lively atmosphere, and active participation. It’s an experience that combines the best of outdoor recreation with a social twist—perfect for celebrating a special occasion or just breaking the routine with something different.