Inside Look: St. Johns Rivership Co.

A Culinary Journey Aboard the Barbara-Lee

In the heart of Historic Downtown Sanford, a unique dining experience awaits those seeking more than just a meal—the St. Johns Rivership Co. Aboard the Barbara-Lee, a sternwheeler, the culinary journey goes beyond conventional dining, blending history, ambiance, and flavorful delights into a captivating experience that guarantees an unforgettable adventure.

CRAFTING CULINARY MASTERPIECES

The skilled chefs onboard take the time to prepare each meal from scratch, ensuring a remarkable level of freshness that truly sets their culinary offerings apart. Stepping away from the ordinary buffet setup, the dining affair is an artfully crafted sit-down experience designed to appeal to a diverse range of tastes, providing an enjoyable experience for everyone. And be sure not to overlook the renowned sticky rolls – they make for the perfect appetizer to kickstart your dining adventure!

Indulge in the delightful Prime Rib, a USDA choice cut, paired with homemade horseradish sauce, seasoned mashed potatoes, and vegetables. For those craving a taste of the tropics, savor the slow-roasted Tropical Chicken, topped with Parmesan cheese and a fresh mango-pineapple chutney. Explore other tempting options like the savory Chicken Marsala and the Chicken Parmesan – each dish guarantees a unique and satisfying experience for your palate. Tasty vegan options are also available for those requiring meatless dishes.

BEYOND THE PLATE: EVENTS ABOARD THE BARBARA-LEE

The Barbara-Lee is not just a vessel for dining; it’s a venue for creating lasting memories. With a capacity of up to 190 guests, the ship offers an array of decks, each with its own ambiance. The Grand Salon Deck, adorned with an elevated Main Stage and dance floor, sets the scene for sophisticated gatherings. The Mezzanine Deck, offering views of the paddle wheel and Main Stage, provides an intimate setting for smaller affairs. The Lookout Deck, with its private dance floor and “lookout” to the Main Stage, exudes exclusivity. And for those seeking an open-air experience, the Paddle Wheel Deck, covered and overlooking the wheels, allows guests to enjoy unobstructed views of the river and its wildlife. The Captain’s Deck, the topmost open-air deck, featuring benches and the captain’s steering cabin, provides a panoramic perspective of the surroundings.

A VISIONARY’S TOUCH

Behind this maritime revival is Michelle Wyatt, a visionary entrepreneur who saw the potential to bring the rivership into the 21st century and purchased the company in September 2023. Her background in software for major corporate events and conferences allowed her to infuse modernity into this historical venture. From online ticketing to a revamped POS system, Michelle’s updates breathe new life into the St. Johns Rivership Co., attracting a younger audience while preserving the historic charm that has defined this floating establishment since the early ‘80s.

LOCATION AND SCHEDULE

The St. Johns Rivership Co. is located in Historic Downtown Sanford. The city is situated on Lake Monroe and the Barbara-Lee is docked on Marina Island. The Barbara-Lee sets sail on a weekly schedule of two, three and four-hour sternwheeler cruises. Dining options include lunch and dinner, as well as special themed cruises like “Rockin’ on the River” and new options in 2024 including Karaoke, Wine Wednesday, and Music Bingo.

CORPORATE EVENTS & TRAININGS

Elevate your corporate events and training to new heights by choosing the historic sternwheeler, the Barbara-Lee, as your unconventional venue. Step away from the mundane conference room setting and immerse your guests in an atmosphere that sparks creativity and engagement. The picturesque St. Johns River serves as a captivating backdrop, creating a unique ambiance that is bound to leave a lasting impression on your attendees. Whether you’re planning a team-building session or a corporate training, the distinctive setting adds a touch of charm and inspiration to every business occasion.

SAY “I DO” ON THE WATER

The Barbara-Lee offers a unique and enchanting venue for weddings and anniversaries, providing an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. Choose from various decks, each offering its own distinctive charm or charter the entire boat for a larger gathering.

ELEVATE YOUR FUNDRAISING EXPERIENCE

Delight your donors with a chef-prepared menu tailored to your preferences, creating a memorable experience that combines support for your cause with the charm of a river cruise. Their experienced team is dedicated to ensuring your event’s success.

RESERVATIONS AND CONTACT INFORMATION

Ready to embark on this culinary journey? Booking your reservation is a breeze. Visit the official website StJohnsRivershipCo.com or contact the Cruise Specialists at (321) 441-3030. The St. Johns Rivership Co. representatives are more than happy to provide detailed presentations on all available cruises and services, ensuring your journey is tailored to your desires. Curious about the cruise experience? The Barbara-Lee is smoke-free in the main dining cabins, and yes, it’s fully air-conditioned for year-round comfort. Live narration during tours, a stocked bar, and entertainment on every cruise ensure there’s never a dull moment. Plus, if you’re planning a group outing, group rates are available for parties of 20 or more.

At the St. Johns Rivership Co., it’s not just about grabbing a bite; it’s a laid-back culinary journey that mixes history, fresh flavors and spectacular views to create a truly unique dining experience. So, what are you waiting for? Start 2024 with a new adventure and book your reservation today. You’re in for a treat!