Monday Night Burrito Bowl Cruise on Lake Minnetonka

An Unusual Evening on Lake Minnetonka: The Burrito Bowl Cruise

Imagine sailing across Lake Minnetonka on a charming two-story yacht while assembling your own delicious burrito bowl. That’s the experience offered by the Monday Night Burrito Bowl Cruise—a fun, casual way to combine good food with scenic views. It’s a unique twist on traditional boat tours, especially appealing for those craving informal dining and memorable vistas.

What we love about this cruise are its relaxed vibe and the opportunity to customize your meal with fresh ingredients—pulled pork, chicken, salsa, guacamole, and more—all while soaking up the sunset views. Plus, the cruise’s family-friendly nature and the affordability make it an accessible option for many.

A potential consideration is the limited duration—at just about two hours, it’s not a long evening, so those looking for an in-depth sightseeing tour might find it a bit brief. Also, drinks are purchased separately, so if you’re hoping for a full bar experience, be prepared to buy your beverages on board.

This cruise is best suited for families, casual groups, or anyone wanting a laid-back evening combining scenic beauty with a fun, interactive meal. It’s ideal for those who value informal experiences, good company, and a dash of lakefront charm.

Key Points

• Scenic two-hour cruise around Lake Minnetonka’s Big Island offers stunning homes, parks, and marinas views.
• Build-your-own burrito bowl with fresh toppings provides a relaxed, personalized dining experience.
• Family-friendly atmosphere makes it suitable for children as young as 2.
• Affordable price point of $39.95 includes a complete meal and scenic cruise.
• Drinks available for purchase, allowing you to enhance the experience with beverages of your choice.
• Limited duration means it’s a quick, enjoyable outing rather than an in-depth tour.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Our exploration of the Monday Night Burrito Bowl Cruise highlights a blend of scenic leisure and casual dining that appeals to a broad audience. The tour departs from the Port of Excelsior at 5:30 pm, making it an excellent choice for a summer evening. The vessel, a two-story yacht operated by Wayzata Bay Charter Cruises, accommodates up to 70 travelers, ensuring a lively yet manageable atmosphere.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The cruise’s main feature is the scenic navigation around Big Island, one of the most picturesque parts of Lake Minnetonka. As you glide past the impressive lakeside homes, public parks, and busy marinas, you’ll enjoy a narrated commentary—adding context and stories to the beautiful sights, although specific narrative details aren’t provided.

The highlight, of course, is the build-your-own burrito bowl. You start with a base—beans and rice—and then add your choice of pulled pork or chicken, topped with salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, cheese, and sour cream. The inclusion of taco chips and an assorted cookie dessert ensures the meal is both satisfying and fun.

While the menu is straightforward, it offers enough variety to cater to most tastes, particularly if you’re a fan of Mexican-inspired food. It’s worth noting that drinks like beer, wine, and cocktails are available for purchase, which can elevate the meal but require extra spending.

The Setting and Views

The boat itself is an attraction—offering stunning views from the two-story deck. We loved the way the vessel’s design allowed for unobstructed sightlines, so everyone gets a good view of the lake surroundings. The sunset views over Lake Minnetonka are particularly memorable, providing a peaceful yet lively atmosphere for an evening cruise.

Comfort and Group Size

With a maximum of 70 travelers, the cruise balances a lively environment with enough space to move comfortably and enjoy the scenery. The boat is accessible with nearby public transportation options, which makes logistics easier for visitors staying in Minneapolis or Saint Paul.

Value and Cost

At $39.95 per person, this experience offers a lot for the price. Included is the full meal, the scenic cruise, and the casual environment. Considering the cost of dining out or a short boat trip separately, this package combines both at an attractive price point. The option to purchase drinks means you can tailor the experience, although it’s worth budgeting for an extra expense if you plan to indulge.

Practical Tips

• Arrive early to find a good spot on the deck and settle in before departure.
• Dress casually—evening cruises can get breezy, and comfortable clothing enhances the experience.
• Bring your ID if you plan to purchase alcohol onboard, as proof of age is typically required.
• Prepare for weather: the cruise is weather-dependent; poor weather may result in cancellation or rescheduling.
• Family-friendly means kids of all ages can join, but keep in mind the duration and meal options.

Authentic Perspectives and Additional Details

While we don’t have official reviews, the description and structure suggest that this is a relaxed, family-oriented outing with broad appeal. The inclusion of a cookie dessert and customizable meal options hint at a friendly, informal atmosphere.

The scenic views are the real star—bright lakeside homes and the peaceful surface of Lake Minnetonka create a picturesque backdrop for your meal. It’s a chance to see a different side of the Twin Cities—away from urban streets—and enjoy nature and lakeside elegance.

Given the limited review data, it’s prudent to appreciate that this is more about the experience than about luxury or extensive sightseeing. It’s ideal for those wanting a taste of local scenery combined with a fun, communal meal.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for families with children, looking for a relaxed evening activity that’s both entertaining and scenic. It also suits casual groups—friends or couples wanting a gentle introduction to Lake Minnetonka’s beauty without the formalities of a fancy dinner or lengthy tour.

If you enjoy interactive dining experiences with a focus on comfort and fun, this cruise provides a straightforward, affordable outing. It’s also a good choice if you’re traveling with kids or simply want to combine lakeside sightseeing with a relaxed meal, rather than a formal sit-down dinner.

However, if you’re after a detailed, in-depth sightseeing tour or a lively bar scene, this might not be the best option. It’s relaxed, friendly, and informal—qualities that many find appealing but may not satisfy those seeking a more upscale or extensive experience.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
No formal dress code—casual clothing is perfectly fine for this relaxed, family-friendly outing.

Can I bring my own drinks?
No, outside beverages aren’t allowed. Alcoholic drinks are available for purchase onboard.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a short but sweet lake experience.

Is it suitable for young children?
Yes, it’s designed to be family-friendly and welcomes children of all ages.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes the two-hour scenic cruise, a build-your-own burrito bowl with various toppings, and a dessert cookie.

What should I bring?
Bring a sense of adventure, comfortable clothing, and perhaps a camera for the beautiful views. An umbrella might be handy if the weather looks uncertain.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes. The experience requires good weather; if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

For those seeking an affordable and casual way to enjoy Lake Minnetonka, this cruise offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty and tasty, customizable food. It’s a perfect outing for families, groups, or anyone who enjoys a relaxed lakeside atmosphere with a dash of interactive dining.

While not a high-end or lengthy tour, its charm lies in its simplicity and the opportunity to savor the lake’s sights from a comfortable yacht while creating your own meal. The views—homes, parks, and boats—are a reminder of the lakeside lifestyle that Minnetonka is famous for.

This experience provides good value, a friendly environment, and a memorable way to spend an evening on the water. If your idea of fun involves good food, scenic views, and a laid-back vibe, this cruise deserves a spot on your Minnesota itinerary.