Mexican Dinner Cruise featuring Charras and Tequila (Mon)

Introduction

If you’re looking to combine a relaxing river cruise with a flavorful taste of Mexico, the Mexican Dinner Cruise featuring Charras and Tequila offers a surprisingly authentic experience on the Missouri River in North Dakota. This 1.5-hour evening cruise is carefully designed for those wanting a blend of scenic views, good food, and a fun, culturally themed setting — all at an accessible price point.

One of the main things we love about this cruise is its focus on quality local cuisine, especially the fajita and taco bars, which are clearly prepared with care and authenticity. Plus, knowing the vessel is US Coast Guard inspected and certified provides peace of mind about safety, a crucial factor for any river-based activity. However, a slight consideration is that the availability is limited to Mondays, which could restrict flexibility for some travelers. This experience is perfect for those seeking a casual, delicious, and scenic evening outing — especially if you’re a fan of Mexican flavors and river views.

Key Points

• Authentic Mexican Cuisine: Fajita and taco bars created by award-winning local chefs.
• Safety and Comfort: US Coast Guard inspected vessel with trained crew, ensuring peace of mind.
• Scenic Setting: Relaxing views of the Missouri River’s river bottoms.
• Limited Availability: Only offered on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
• Affordable Price: At $54, the experience offers good value considering the food and scenic setting.
• Additional Bar Options: Full-service bar available for purchase, but drinks are not included in the ticket price.

The Experience: What to Expect

The Meeting Point and Timing

Your journey begins at The Landing, 1700 River Rd, Bismarck, where tickets are redeemed at 6:00 pm. The meeting process is straightforward, and the location is close to public transportation, making access easier for most travelers. Expect to be aboard the vessel for approximately 90 minutes — a perfect length for a leisurely evening without feeling rushed.

The Vessel and Safety Measures

The Lewis & Clark Riverboat operates this cruise, emphasizing safety and professionalism. We appreciated the transparency about their certification, as they are tested and inspected by the US Coast Guard. The crew undergo CPR/First Aid training and are proficient in emergency response, which adds an extra layer of confidence for travelers.

Scenic Views and Atmosphere

Once underway, the boat gently glides along the Missouri River, offering views of the river bottoms — a peaceful, natural landscape that enhances the relaxed vibe of the evening. The enclosed yet open-air design of the vessel allows you to soak in the scenery while staying comfortable.

Food and Beverage

The highlight of this cruise is the cuisine. The dinner is provided by Charras & Tequila, a well-regarded local restaurant that has earned awards for their Mexican fare. The menu features fajita and taco bars, which are ideal for sharing and customizing your meal. Reviewers mention the deliciousness of the food, and some say it feels more like a feast than just a typical cruise meal.

While alcoholic beverages are not included, a full-service bar is available for purchase. The bar offers a variety of drinks, including Tequila, to complement the Mexican theme — perfect for those wanting to indulge a little.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum capacity of about 80 travelers, the cruise maintains a cozy, social atmosphere without feeling crowded. Past comments indicate that the pace is relaxed, and the crew creates a friendly environment, making it suitable for families, couples, or small groups.

The Pros and Cons

Why This Cruise Works Well

• Authentic Food: The fajita and taco bars are considered “best of the best” by locals, and reviews highlight the delicious flavors. Many guests appreciate the quality and variety, which elevate this from a mere sightseeing trip to a culinary experience.
• Safety and Reliability: The vessel’s certification and crew training are reassuring, especially for travelers unfamiliar with river cruises.
• Scenic and Relaxing: The views of the Missouri River’s river bottoms add a peaceful backdrop to your meal.
• Affordable Price: At $54, you’re paying for a combination of good food, scenic views, and a relaxing cruise — a solid deal for an evening outing.

Potential Drawbacks

• Limited Schedule: Being only available on Mondays might not suit everyone’s travel plans.
• Additional Cost for Drinks: While the food is included, alcohol must be purchased separately, which can add to the overall expense.
• Weather Dependency: As with any outdoor or partially outdoor experience, poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise appeals most to travelers who enjoy good food, scenic natural settings, and a lighthearted atmosphere. It’s ideal for those wanting a casual, culturally themed evening, especially if you’re interested in Mexican cuisine. Families, couples, and groups of friends will find it a fun, relaxed outing. However, if you’re looking for a more extensive or multi-day experience, this might feel a bit brief.

The Sum Up

The Mexican Dinner Cruise on the Missouri River offers a nice blend of scenic beauty, delicious food, and safety assurance — all for an accessible price. It’s a straightforward way to enjoy a peaceful river evening while indulging in some flavorful Mexican dishes prepared by local award winners. The focus on safety and comfort makes it a reliable choice, and the intimate group size helps foster a friendly, laid-back vibe.

While it’s only available on Mondays, this cruise suits travelers seeking a light, enjoyable evening with good eats and beautiful views. It’s especially well-suited for those wanting to experience North Dakota’s natural landscape with a fun, culturally themed twist.

If you’re craving a relaxing river outing with a dash of spice, this cruise might be just what you need — a simple, enjoyable way to spend an evening on the Missouri River.

FAQ

• Is this cruise suitable for children?
  Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a family-friendly option if your kids enjoy scenic views and casual dining.

• Are drinks included in the ticket price?
  No, alcoholic beverages are not included. You can purchase drinks at the full-service bar during the cruise.

• How long is the cruise?
  The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

• Can I book this cruise for a different day?
  No, this experience is only available on Mondays.

• What’s the starting point?
  The cruise begins at The Landing, 1700 River Rd, Bismarck.

• Is the vessel accessible for people with mobility issues?
  The provided information doesn’t specify, but since the meeting point is accessible by public transportation and the vessel is certified, it’s likely suitable for most.

• How many people can join?
  The maximum group size is 80 travelers.

• Is the food served buffet-style?
  Yes, it features a fajita and taco bar, allowing guests to serve themselves and customize their meal.

• What should I wear?
  Casual attire is appropriate, especially since the cruise is relaxed and scenic. Bringing layers is advisable if it gets chilly in the evening.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The cruise requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed review highlights the practical and enjoyable aspects of the Mexican Dinner Cruise, helping you decide if it’s the right fit for your North Dakota adventure.