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Experiences

St. Johns Rivership Co Unique River Cruise Experience Under New Ownership

Over the last few years, Historic Downtown Sanford has become a recognized and preeminent destination within Central Florida for its events & experiences. From large scale neighborhood-infused music festivals to outlandishly fun sofa races, from golf cart & e-bike rentals along the Sanford Riverwalk to enjoying a craft brewery or food tour, from taking in award-winning shows and plays to browsing at art festivals, there is an overwhelming array of things to do in Historic Downtown Sanford.

Among the plethora of options, one of Sanford’s most classic and unique experiences, the St. Johns Rivership Co. and its flagship vessel the Barbara Lee, has taken tens of thousands of guests up the St. Johns River in their turn-of-the-century style paddleboat. In September of 2023, the Wyatt family purchased the business, and under their ownership, patrons can look forward to a revitalized and refreshed version of this authentic ‘Old Florida’ delight, along with first-class food, drink, and fun!

Meeting with new owner Michelle Wyatt on the Barbara Lee, I was quickly impressed by both the scope and speed of the upgrades and enhancements already in place, and the vision of what’s to come. Acquiring the St. Johns Rivership Co. on September 7, 2023, the Wyatts are now the third family to operate a dining experience aboard a Rivership from the Historic Downtown Sanford Marina since 1982. The Wyatt family successfully ran a software business for 22 years in Maryland, with a focus on event management and mobile app solutions. Michelle’s extensive experience in business development, her strategic vision, and focus on providing an elite guest experience to each guest already has the St. Johns Rivership Co. pointed in the right direction.

Wyatt appreciates that what her family bought is more than just a boat, and more than just a restaurant. The Barbara Lee is the only authentic sternwheeler sailing the St. Johns River, measuring 105 feet from stem to stern, and capable of having 194 guests lounge within its five stories and myriad decks, making it the perfect space to host events of varying sizes. Built in 1986 and extensively refurbished in 2012, the ship is a replica of the traditional stern wheel style boats that ran on the St. Johns River back during the mid to late 1800s, featuring ornate wrought iron railings and massive wooden paddle wheels. While cutting a path across Lake Monroe in Sanford, the Barbara Lee looks all at once part something out of a Mark Twain novel and 100% a good time. “We bought an experience,” said Wyatt. “We’re excited to give this great experience its next chapter.”

The Wyatts have wasted no time implementing many positive changes, including online ticket sales, equipping the Barbara Lee with WiFi capabilities, and enhancing the audio-visual capabilities on board. “Where I can immediately help this business is with the guest experience,” says Michelle. “This vessel and this business is a dining experience that has become a part of people’s lives.”

Wyatt’s passion for hospitality and appreciation for providing exceptional experiences to customers has now been directed towards this historic and historically relevant attraction housed in the Downtown Sanford Marina. Plans are unfolding over the next few months to refurbish the interior, including carpets and lighting, along with planned upgraded and modernization to the building located on Marina Island that serves as the St. Johns Rivership Co.’s ticket office. Additionally, “cross-generational” activities to attract and engage a younger generation such as “Pirates and Mermaids” and “Sailing with Santa” events are part of the vision, along with monthly drink specials and other exciting events.

Back to the “experience” you are getting when you set sail up the river on the Barbara Lee, the St. Johns Rivership Co. is a premier river cruise operator that showcases the stunning beauty and rich history of the St. Johns River region. This is a one-of-a-kind dining experience that combined food, drink, relaxation and picturesque waterfront locations. As the Marina Island Master Plan set forth by the City of Sanford comes into fruition, with the proposed bar, restaurant, and café overlooking the water and the fully refreshed and reorganized marina, Wyatt aims to have the St. Johns Rivership Co. anchored right amidst the action, adding to the amazing things there are to do in Historic Downtown Sanford.

Downtown Sanford Marina 433 N. Palmetto Ave. Sanford FL 32771 (321) 441-3030 www.stjohnsrivershipco.com

Daniel R. Lewis

Daniel R. Lewis is an Attorney, Realtor, and entrepreneur who is one of Sanford’s most prominent business leaders. Attorney Lewis has served on the board of directors for the Sanford Chamber of Commerce, as a Commissioner on the City of Sanford Planning and Zoning board, runs a large non-profit entity, and has otherwise been involved in countless large-scale growth projects in Sanford, Florida. He is a two-tour United States Air Force veteran who served his nation in time of war, is heavily involved in a variety of local civic, community, and charitable functions, and owns the most recognized legal practice in Sanford.

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Home » Orlando Attractions » Distraction Attractions » St Johns Rivership Co.

St Johns Rivership Co.

• Location: 433 N. Palmetto Ave. Sanford, Florida 32771
• Phone: (321) 441-3030
• Website: http://www.stjohnsrivershipco.com/

Things to do at St Johns Rivership Co.

Here's a totally different way to experience Florida,  its wildlife, its beauty, and its warmth. All while enjoying the very best in chef-prepared cuisine, live entertainment and endless hospitality in climate-controlled comfort. Family-owned and operated, the St. Johns Rivership Co. is the latest in a long line of sternwheelers that have been serving and sailing the St. Johns River for centuries. 

Did You Know?

Interesting & useful facts

Measuring 105 feet from stem to stern, the ship was built in 1986.

All enclosed decks are climate controlled by air conditioning and heating.

All narrated cruises include your choice of chef-prepared entrée, live entertainment, and endless hospitality.

Photos of St Johns Rivership Co.

News About St Johns Rivership Co.

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All Aboard St Johns Rivership

Glancing out across Lake Monroe from the marina in historic Sanford you might be fooled into thinking you'd gone back in time 100 years. Making its way…

The Barbara-Lee

Welcome to the Rivership Barbara-Lee. The only authentic sternwheeler sailing the St. Johns River. Measuring 105 feet from stem to stern, the ship was built in 1986 and was extensively refurbished prior to its inaugural St. Johns cruise in 2012. Featuring ornate wrought iron railings and massive wooden paddle wheels, the five-story rivership accommodates up to 194 guests, making it ideally suited to host events of varying sizes. Plus, all enclosed decks are climate controlled by air conditioning and heating.

Grand Salon Deck

Seats 94 and features an elevated Main Stage, dance floor and well-stocked bar

Mezzanine Deck

Seats 40 and offers views of the paddlewheel and Main Stage

Lookout Deck

Seats 60 and features its own dance floor with a “lookout” through to the Main Stage.

Paddlewheel Deck

A covered open-air deck overlooking the wheels allows you to stay out of the sun while enjoying unobstructed views of the river and its wildlife.

Captain’s Deck

The topmost, open-air deck featuring benches and the captain’s steering cabin

Sip perfectly Poured Cocktails As You Stroll The Decks.

The Barbara-Lee features a well-stocked bar and a professional bartender ready to serve a glass of wine, beer or one of our Signature Cocktails. BEVERAGE MENU

Cruises & Fares

The Barbara-Lee departs from Historic Downtown Sanford almost daily. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED TO CRUISE.

All narrated cruises include your choice of chef-prepared entrée, live entertainment, and endless hospitality, as well as a well-stocked bar. Lunch cruises depart the dock in downtown Sanford Wednesday through Sunday with dinner cruises available on Saturday nights.

River Visit Luncheon Cruise – Wednesday 11am to 2pm River Escape Lunch Cruise – Thursday 11am to 3pm Saturday Luncheon Cruise – Saturday 11am to 2pm Dinner Dance Cruise  – Saturday Evenings 7:30pm to 10:30pm Sunday Luncheon Cruise – Sunday 11am to 2pm

*PLEASE NOTE BOARDING BEGINS 30 MINUTES BEFORE DEPARTURE

THE BARBARA-LEE MENU

Once you’ve been seated, you’re able to select your entrée from The Barbara-Lee Menu. Should you have questions, helpful staff are on hand to answer them. Upon selection of your meal, you simply give your menu slip to your server. Then, just sit back and relax or take a stroll about the ship.

Entrées are chef-prepared to your liking and served with side salad, freshly baked rolls, chef’s choice vegetables and dessert.

USDA choice cut prime rib prepared to your specifications. Served alongside buttery mashed potatoes.

Tropical Chicken

Slow-roasted chicken breast with Parmesan and a savory mango-pineapple chutney atop rice.

Chicken Marsala

Chicken breast prepared in a Marsala sauce reduction with mushrooms and Parmesan and served alongside buttery mashed potatoes.

Chicken Parmesan

Grilled chicken breast with Parmesan cheese and marinara sauce alongside pasta and a side of chef’s choice vegetables.

Salmon Fillet

Thick-cut salmon prepared with your choice of Lemon Butter Sauce or Teriyaki Glaze atop rice.

Roasted Vegetable Lasagna

Layers of slow-roasted vegetables, pasta, marinara sauce and three kinds of cheese. Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in our signature Caesar dressing, with homemade croutons and Parmesan topped with your choice of grilled Chicken Breast or Salmon Fillet.

St Johns Rivership Shuttle

COURTESY SHUTTLE

For your comfort and convenience, a Courtesy Shuttle is available for groups of 8 to 14 guests. Shuttle availability varies. Prior booking required. Must have same pickup and drop-off location. Maximum 40-mile distance.

• St John’s Rivership Co LLC

September 2024

Alice in wonderland high tea aboard the barbara lee.

Alice in Wonderland High Tea aboard the Barbara Lee Enjoy a wide array of endless tea along with savory finger sandwiches, scones with jelly and bite size sweets. This 3-hour cruise on the St Johns River will take you back to a time when things were peaceful and pretty. Celebrate your sister or the women […]

Saturday Dinner Dance Cruise on the St. Johns River

Embark on an unforgettable dinner aboard our rivership, the Barbara Lee, boarding at 430pm, departing at 5pm from Historic Downtown Sanford, FL and sailing for three hours. Indulge in a delectable dining experience featuring a diverse array of entrees cooked onboard. Choose from seven different entrees, showcasing culinary excellence with options to suit every taste. […]

October 2024

Whiskey & wisdsom cruise.

Join us aboard the Barbara Lee for our new Whiskey and Wednesday cruise on the second Wednesday of each month. This is a 2-hour long cruise boarding at 6:30pm and cruising from 7:30-9:30pm, regarding the St. Johns River and local area history from a true Sternwheel Paddlewheel. The St. Johns Rivership Company is collaborating with […]

Musical Bingo on the Barbara Lee with St Johns Rivership Co

Every 3rd Friday of the Month We board at 6:30 pm and cruise from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm $25 per adult, this includes all cards and game play. Great prizes and lots of fun! An Ala Carte Menu and Full Bar are available for purchase. Tickets can also be purchased online at stjohnsrivershipco.com or […]

Ecological Tour Buffet Breakfast Cruise

Join us aboard the Barbara Lee for our first Ecological Breakfast Tour Cruise. This will be a cruise like no other! We will journey on the St Johns River to places most will never see! This is the perfect cruise for bird watchers. With so many beautiful varieties of birds in the area. We have […]

November 2024

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Rivership Romance

Type: Day Trips , Food & Wine , Romantic , Tours and Excursions

Last updated on June 29, 2015

10Best Says

433 N Palmetto Ave Sanford, FL 32771

407-321-5091

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Day 263 – Rivership Romance in Sanford FL

Jun 19, 2009 | 0

Rivership Romance

Since I work too much and probably won’t get to do this before my 365 project is over I wanted to still be sure to post something about the Rivership Romance in Sanford. It is currently high on my list of things to do but with my days completely overbooked I am running out of time.So here just a quick snapshot I took from the shore of Lake Monroe and schedule and pricing below. Hope that I will soon have a more detailed report and more pictures – taken ON the boat!

I simply love the idea of a dinner cruise or lunch cruise on Lake Monroe to experience Florida’s true nature. A cruise on the Rivership Romance is a fun thing to do in Sanford and friends have already told me that I definitely should check it out. On Saturdays you could even take advantage of a dinner & dance cruise! Can’t wait to spend a fun day on the water, enjoying some good food, cool drinks and fun music 🙂

Here a bit more about their schedule and pricing but be sure to call and verify as those times may change in the future!

Cruise Schedule and Pricing:

3-HOUR LUNCHEON CRUISES – $38.00 (+ port $2.50/person charge and sales tax) Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 11 AM – 2 PM Full meal is provided (made on board fresh!).  Bar beverages need to be purchased. 4-HOUR LUNCHEON CRUISES – $48.50 (+ port $2.50/person charge and sales tax) Tuesday and Thursday 11 AM – 3 PM Same as the 3 hour version but with live entertainment and obviously – one hour more fun!

SUNDAY BRUNCH CRUISE – $38.00 (+ port $2.50/person charge and sales tax) Every Sunday 11 AM – 2:00 PM Brunch and special live entertainment. Bar beverages need to be purchased.

MOONLIGHT DINING & DANCE CRUISE- $53.75 (+ port $2.50/person charge and sales tax) Saturday 7:30 PM – 11 PM The most romantic of all cruises. Includes a buffet of hors d’oeuvres and fine dinner. Bar beverages need to be purchased. Moonlit water must be great, I just wonder about those mean mosquitoes… So prepare yourselves!

A few more things to be mentioned about the Rivership Romance in Sanford FL:

• Reservation for cruises is required.
• The minimum ages on all evening cruises is 14 years.
• The boat is 98 ft long and triple decked.
• Gift certificates are available.
• There is also a private functions schedule available for Monday through Friday evening cruises. Call for more information.

Here is their information: Rivership Romance 433 N. Palmetto Ave, Sanford, FL 32771 1-800 -423-7401 Office hours: Monday – Saturday: 8:30am to 5:00pm (Saturdays until 7:30pm) Sunday: 9am to Noon

About The Author

Hi, my name is Claudia! I live, work and play in Sanford, FL. To top it all off, I am also totally in love with Sanford! My husband Jose and I are Realtors in Sanford, FL and help people realize their dreams of home ownership. We have two sons, Nicolas (2011) and Lukas (2013). I am originally from Germany, moved here in 2004. In 2008 I started Sanford365.com. I love everything that says creativity. Design is my passion, no matter if Graphic, Web or Fashion Design - and I am also into photography :) I'm also very social and love to hang out with my family and friends, be it for a kids play date or a fun night out ;)

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• 321.441.3030
• [email protected]
• 433 N. Palmetto Ave. Sanford, Florida 32771

St. Johns Rivership Co.

THE BARBARA-LEE MENU

LUNCH AND DINNER

Tropical chicken, chicken marsala, chicken parmesan, salmon fillet, meatless spaghetti meatballs, entrée caesar salad, first mates meal.

SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

World famous bloody mary, paddle wheel, captain’s punch, blue mermaid, st. johns sunrise.

Bud | Bud Light

Miller lite, michelob ultra.

— HOUSE WINES —

Chardonnay / merlot / cabernet, white zinfandel, — white wines —, pinot grigio, sauvignon blanc, — red wines —.

Mionetto Prosecco

Non-alcoholic.