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

Planning an evening out in Fort Lauderdale? Then this Jungle Queen Riverboat experience is worth considering. It combines a scenic cruise along the city’s historic waterways, a hearty all-you-can-eat BBQ, and an energetic variety show — all in one 4-hour package. With over a thousand reviews and a solid 4.5-star rating, it’s clear this is a popular choice for visitors and locals alike.

What we love about this tour? First, the stunning views of Millionaires Row—luxurious mansions and sleek yachts that make for a perfect photo op. Second, the generous BBQ dinner — ribs, chicken, and all the traditional fixings served endlessly. And third, the hilarious stage show that keeps the energy high and the laughs coming. The only thing to keep in mind is that the experience doesn’t include alcohol or soft drinks, which are available for purchase, so budget accordingly.

This tour is ideal for families, couples, or groups looking for a fun night with a mix of sightseeing, good food, and entertainment. If you’re after a relaxed, all-in-one evening that showcases Fort Lauderdale’s glamour and culture, it’s a solid pick. However, if you’re a vegetarian or have specific dietary needs, you might find the menu somewhat limited, since the focus is on BBQ meats.

Good To Know

• Scenic waterways: Cruise along Fort Lauderdale’s historic New River, known as the “Venice of America.”
• Luxurious sights: See million-dollar mansions and yachts on Millionaires Row.
• All-you-can-eat BBQ: Indulge in endless ribs and chicken with classic sides.
• Entertaining show: Enjoy a lively variety performance featuring comedians, jugglers, magicians, and Polynesian dancers.
• Relaxed timing: The tour departs at 6:00 pm, with ample time to enjoy dinner and the show.
• Convenient location: Starts at Bahia Mar Yachting Center, close to public transportation and parking options.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

The Scenic River Cruise: A Picturesque Introduction

The journey begins at the Bahia Mar Yachting Center—a convenient point easily accessible and well-organized. We appreciate the friendly check-in process, with instructions to arrive about 45 minutes early, which many reviewers say is wise to secure good seats. The boat itself is specially designed for sightseeing, with onboard restrooms, and it’s notably comfortable, even for larger groups of up to 385 travelers.

The narrated cruise takes about an hour, guiding you through Fort Lauderdale’s New River. As you glide along, you’ll see an array of stunning mansions and yachts—some of which you might recognize from the water. The narrator (who has been praised for being engaging and informative) points out interesting sights like downtown Fort Lauderdale, Port Everglades, and the Intracoastal Waterway. Several reviewers mention that the commentary adds a layer of context, making the cruise feel more personalized and insightful.

The Tropical Isle: Endless BBQ and Fun

After the cruise, the adventure continues at the Tropical Isle, a lush, tropical-themed setting where the highlight is obviously the all-you-can-eat barbecue dinner. The menu features baby back ribs and chicken, served with all the traditional sides. Reviewers frequently mention that the portion sizes are quite generous, with many saying they left the table full and satisfied.

A few reviewers, however, have noted that the food was sometimes served cold or that there was a rush to eat, with only about 30 minutes to enjoy the meal. One guest suggested adding salads for variety and for vegetarians, reflecting the menu’s focus on meat. Still, most found the food to be good for a buffet-style dinner and appreciated the unlimited servings.

The Stage Show: Laughter and Entertainment

Post-dinner entertainment is a lively, variety stage show that features comedians, jugglers, ventriloquists, magicians, and Polynesian dancers. The show’s energy is a hit with many reviewers, who describe it as hilarious and engaging. One reviewer called it “America’s Oldest Running Variety show,” and several praised the performers’ talent and humor, noting that it kept everyone entertained and laughing.

Some mention that the show is family-friendly, making it suitable for all ages. A few guests felt that the entertainment could be more polished or longer, but overall, the enthusiasm and humor of the performers shine through.

The Return Cruise: A Relaxed End to the Evening

The final leg of the journey is a leisurely return cruise back to Bahia Mar, giving everyone a chance to unwind and reflect on the evening’s sights and sounds. Reviewers say the boat ride is relaxing and scenic, providing a peaceful end to an action-packed night.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Price and Value

At $80 per person, this experience offers a lot—scenic views, a hearty meal, and entertainment—that many consider excellent value. Considering the cost of separate activities (boat ride, dinner, and show), the package provides convenience and savings. Some reviews mention that drinks are not included, but they are available for purchase, with some noting the drinks are pricier than expected (up to $40 with additional fees). Still, the overall expense aligns well with what you get.

Timing and Duration

The tour starts at 6:00 pm and lasts approximately four hours. Arriving early is recommended to secure a good seat, especially if you want to get a prime view for photos or just prefer a leisurely start. The tour includes four main stops: the cruise out, the island dinner, the show, and the return cruise.

Accessibility and Group Size

The boats are designed for sightseeing, with onboard restrooms, making it suitable for most travelers. The maximum group size is 385 guests, so it can feel lively but not overly crowded. The tour is also near public transportation, making it accessible without a car.

Parking and Convenience

Parking at the Bahia Mar is $20 if you prepay, which many reviewers recommend to avoid the hefty fees and parking hassles. Some guests have noted that even after prepaying, exiting the lot can be slow, so patience is key.

Authentic Feedback from Reviewers

Multiple guests have highlighted the professionalism of the staff and the informative narration as standout features. One reviewer praised the guide, Tony, for making the cruise memorable with his humor and knowledge.

Food quality receives mixed reviews; while many enjoy the meat-heavy buffet, some wish for more vegetarian options or warmer dishes. Still, the endless servings and the lively atmosphere tend to compensate for minor menu shortcomings.

The stage show is generally a crowd-pleaser, with many citing it as a highlight. However, some suggest it could be more polished, but the performers’ charisma keeps the mood upbeat.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is a fantastic choice for families, couples, and groups seeking a lively evening with a good mix of sightseeing, food, and entertainment. If you enjoy scenic water views and a hearty meal, it’s hard to beat. It also appeals to those interested in seeing Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront mansions and yachts without the hassle of planning multiple activities.

However, if you’re a vegetarian or have specific dietary needs, you might find the menu limiting, and the rush during dinner could be frustrating. Also, those expecting a highly polished stage show might find it a bit rustic, but most will appreciate the humor and energy.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $80, you gain a well-rounded evening that captures the essence of Fort Lauderdale — its glamorous waterways, luxurious homes, and lively atmosphere. The cruise itself offers beautiful, unobstructed views, with narration that makes the scenery even more engaging. The all-you-can-eat BBQ is satisfying, especially for meat lovers, and the variety show provides plenty of laughs and fun.

This tour is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxing, entertaining night out that combines sightseeing with good food and a lively atmosphere. It’s particularly great for families or groups wanting to enjoy a classic Florida experience without the hassle of booking separate activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour features a fully narrated cruise down the New River, an all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner of ribs and chicken, a lively variety stage show, and return cruise back to Bahia Mar.

What is the starting time?
Departure is at 6:00 pm from Bahia Mar Yachting Center.

Are drinks included?
No, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are not included but are available for purchase on board and at the island.

Is there parking available?
Yes, parking at Bahia Mar is about $20 if pre-paid, and guests are advised to arrive early to avoid delays.

How long does the entire experience last?
The whole experience takes around 4 hours, from boarding to return.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers under 16 are welcome when accompanied by an adult. The stage show is family-friendly.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
The boats are designed for sightseeing with onboard restrooms, but specific accessibility features are not detailed, so it’s best to inquire directly if needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility.

Are there vegetarian options?
The menu mainly focuses on BBQ meats, so vegetarians might find limited choices. Some reviews suggest including salads or vegetarian dishes would improve the experience.

This Jungle Queen Riverboat experience offers a lively, scenic, and filling evening that celebrates Fort Lauderdale’s charm. Whether you’re here for the views, the food, or the entertainment, it’s a well-loved, dependable choice for a memorable night out.