St. Johns River High-Tea Cruise Tour in Sanford

Exploring the St. Johns River High-Tea Cruise Tour in Sanford

Imagine gliding along the tranquil waters of the St. Johns River aboard a historic paddlewheeler, savoring a selection of fine teas and tasty bites—all while being entertained by live music. This is exactly what the St. Johns River High-Tea Cruise in Sanford promises. Though we haven’t been on it ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a charming, relaxing experience perfect for those seeking a unique blend of scenic beauty and refined indulgence.

What truly draws people in? The chance to experience a vintage paddlewheeler, the delicious, freshly prepared food, and the serene views of Lake Monroe and the river. Plus, the live entertainment and full table service make it a standout outing for special occasions or just a leisurely daytime escape.

That said, a potential snag could be the timing and weather dependence—if the skies turn gray, the experience might not feel quite as magical. Still, for anyone looking for a refined yet laid-back activity, especially for celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries, this cruise could be just the ticket.

This tour is particularly well-suited for couples, small groups, or those interested in a relaxed social setting with quality food and scenic views. If you’re a fan of live music, good tea, and charming vessels, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Good To Know

• Authentic Paddlewheeler: The “Barbara-Lee” offers a nostalgic, scenic voyage across Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River.
• Gourmet Tea & Snacks: Includes unlimited tea options and a selection of savory finger sandwiches, scones, and sweets.
• Live Entertainment: An element of fun with live music that adds to the relaxing atmosphere.
• Flexible Setting: Three dining levels and customizable table arrangements suit special celebrations.
• Value for Money: At $48 per person, the experience is a well-rounded mix of scenery, comfort, and good food.
• Weather Dependent: The tour relies on good weather; canceled trips will be rescheduled or refunded.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour departs from 433 N Palmetto Ave, Sanford, at noon, with boarding beginning 30 minutes earlier. Once onboard, you’ll find the “Barbara-Lee” ready to cruise, showcasing its authentic paddlewheeler design—a nostalgic nod to river transport of the past. The cruise lasts approximately two hours, during which you will see the serene views of Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River, an area often praised for its gentle beauty and peaceful surroundings.

You’ll be treated to live entertainment, which one reviewer mentioned as a highlight—Dee, the cruise host, was singled out for her lively and engaging personality, making the experience memorable. Expect a full table service, where staff serve freshly prepared meals from a menu. The included gourmet tea is a standout, with over 30 flavors available—perfect for tea lovers wanting to sample a variety of blends.

The food is designed to evoke a traditional high tea experience, with savory finger sandwiches, scones with jelly, and bite-sized sweets. Many reviews hint that the food is not just a side note but a genuine part of the enjoyment, with guests noting that the food was great and the sail was smooth. The opportunity to indulge in endless tea adds a touch of luxury and relaxation to the cruise.

While the lunch menu isn’t specified in detail, the focus on fresh, quality ingredients ensures a satisfying meal. For those seeking a classic tea experience, the unlimited tea selection—including over 30 flavors—means you can enjoy a different brew with each sip.

What Sets This Cruise Apart

Scenic Views & Historic Vessel: The “Barbara-Lee” isn’t just any boat—it’s an authentic paddlewheeler, offering a nostalgic vibe and great photo opportunities. The scenic journey along Lake Monroe and past natural landscapes is a highlight, especially for those who appreciate calm waters and gentle breezes.

Food & Beverage Quality: With meals prepared fresh in the galley, the quality is a step above typical cruise fare. The inclusion of savory sandwiches, scones, and sweets makes this feel more like a special occasion than an ordinary boat ride. The full bar is cash-only, so plan accordingly if you want a tipple.

Live Entertainment & Atmosphere: The presence of live music elevates the experience, making it suitable for celebratory events or just a fun day out. The review mentioning Dee’s lively performance underlines how much personality can elevate the cruise.

Flexible and Private: With three dining levels and flexible table arrangements, it’s suitable for weddings, reunions, or business gatherings. The ambiance can be crafted to suit your group’s vibe, contributing to a memorable occasion.

The Value of the Experience

For $48, this cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, entertainment, and quality food. Considering the inclusion of unlimited tea, the fresh menu, and the live music, it’s a solid value for anyone wanting a refined yet relaxing experience. The cruise’s capacity of up to 176 travelers ensures it stays lively but can also be intimate depending on how many guests attend.

The two-hour duration feels just right—not rushed or overly long—allowing plenty of time to enjoy the sights, food, and company without fatigue. Given that it’s booked an average of 44 days in advance, this experience is popular and worth planning ahead.

Practical Considerations

Timing & Weather: Since the tour depends heavily on good weather, travelers should be prepared for possible rescheduling or cancellation in case of storms or heavy rain. The tour provider offers full refunds if canceled due to weather, so it’s worth checking the forecast.

Accessibility: Service animals are permitted, which is great for travelers with assistance animals. Remember that late arrivals won’t be able to join, so arriving at least 30 minutes early is advisable.

Group Size: With a maximum of 176 travelers, the cruise maintains a comfortable atmosphere, but it can get busy during peak times. Booking well in advance is recommended for guaranteed availability.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for those celebrating special moments—anniversaries, birthdays, or reunions—thanks to its customizable setting and elegant vibe. It’s also perfect for tea lovers and anyone interested in a relaxed, scenic daytime activity with light entertainment. Travelers looking for a historic and picturesque vessel combined with good food and drinks will find this cruise hits the mark.

If you’re seeking an authentic paddlewheeler experience coupled with quality service and scenic views, the St. Johns River High-Tea Cruise provides a charming and memorable outing. It’s a peaceful, enjoyable way to spend a few hours, soaking in the Florida scenery while indulging in a classic high tea service.

FAQs

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
The tour doesn’t specify a strict dress code, but smart casual is recommended given the refined atmosphere.

Can I bring my own alcohol?
No, outside alcohol isn’t allowed. A full cash bar is available onboard for drinks, including alcohol.

What is included in the price?
The $48 fee covers the cruise, unlimited tea from a menu with over 30 flavors, and a full meal featuring savory sandwiches, scones, and sweets.

Are there options for non-tea drinkers?
While the included drinks are tea, sodas are available for purchase. The bar also offers other beverages for those who prefer something else.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately two hours, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery, food, and entertainment without feeling rushed.

What should I arrive?
Boarding begins 30 minutes before the scheduled 12:00 pm departure, so plan to arrive early to settle in comfortably.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the cruise is family-friendly, but it’s best for children who can enjoy a relaxed sightseeing experience and sit comfortably for the duration.

Final Thoughts

The St. Johns River High-Tea Cruise offers a delightful combination of scenic views, elegant dining, and lively entertainment—all aboard a beautifully preserved paddlewheeler. It’s a wonderful way to unwind, celebrate, or simply enjoy a different perspective of the Sanford area. The thoughtful inclusion of fresh, flavorful food and the chance to sample a wide variety of teas elevate this experience beyond a typical boat ride.

Whether you’re a fan of historic vessels, searching for a charming outing with friends, or looking for a memorable way to mark a special day, this cruise is likely to deliver. Its balance of comfort, scenery, and fine fare makes it a standout choice for a relaxing day on the water.

In summary, this cruise is perfect for anyone craving a peaceful, scenic, and tasteful escape in Sanford. It promises a memorable outing with charming views, good company, and quality refreshments—making it a worthwhile addition to your Florida itinerary.