BBQ Dinner Cruise featuring Laughing Sun BBQ

Introduction

Taking a dinner cruise might seem like a leisurely way to enjoy the water, but this particular experience offers more than just scenic views—it combines great food, a relaxed atmosphere, and a touch of local flavor. The BBQ Dinner Cruise featuring Laughing Sun BBQ, operated by The Lewis & Clark Riverboat, is designed to showcase North Dakota’s charm with a hearty American BBQ meal, all while gliding along the Missouri River.

What drew us to this cruise is the combination of delicious, award-winning BBQ and the sense of safety and professionalism that the operators emphasize. The boat is US Coast Guard inspected and crewed by trained staff, which is a reassuring detail for those who prioritize safety on water-based tours. One thing to consider is that the tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, which is perfect for a relaxed evening but might feel a bit brief if you’re after a longer experience. This cruise suits travelers who appreciate good food, scenic river views, and a casual, family-friendly vibe.

Key Points

• Authentic American BBQ: Enjoy award-winning dishes from Laughing Sun Brewing Co. with multiple menu options.
• Safety First: The vessel is US Coast Guard inspected, with crew trained in CPR and First Aid.
• Beautiful Setting: Relax while gazing over the Missouri River bottoms, a peaceful and picturesque backdrop.
• Convenient Location & Timing: Starts at The Landing in Bismarck at 6:00 pm, ideal for an early evening outing.
• All-Inclusive Value: Includes dinner, restroom facilities, and an audio guide, with additional options for drinks.
• Limited Cancellation Flexibility: The tour is non-refundable, so plan accordingly, especially with weather considerations.

What to Expect from the BBQ Dinner Cruise

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise begins at The Landing on River Road in Bismarck, ND, at 6 pm—an ideal time to catch the sunset and enjoy the calm of the early evening. Once onboard, you’ll be greeted with a friendly crew operating a vessel that’s fully certified by the US Coast Guard, ensuring confidence in safety standards. The cruise lasts around 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable, no-fuss activity perfect for an evening outing.

The main feature is the stop along the Missouri River, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the river bottoms—a landscape that’s both tranquil and evocative of the region. As the boat gently drifts, the highlight is the award-winning BBQ cuisine provided by Laughing Sun Brewing Co., a highly regarded local favorite.

The BBQ Experience

Guests are treated to a variety of Americana BBQ options that promise rich, flavorful bites. The menu is designed to offer a “can’t-go-wrong” experience, with options that cater to different tastes. Since Laughing Sun is a recognized “best-of-the-best” recipient, you can expect authentic, well-prepared dishes that spotlight North Dakota’s culinary pride.

While the tour doesn’t include alcohol, there’s a full-service bar available for purchase, allowing you to pair your meal with a local brew or soft drink. Reviewers have mentioned that the food alone makes this cruise worthwhile—”the smoked meats and flavorful sides really hit the spot,” one guest noted, emphasizing how satisfying the BBQ was.

Included Amenities and Extras

• Restroom facilities onboard ensure comfort during the cruise.
• An audio guide provides commentary on the sights, making the experience informative without distracting from the relaxing environment.

The Experience’s Strengths

Scenic Views and Atmosphere

The Missouri River is a peaceful backdrop that elevates the whole experience. You’ll love how the gentle motion of the boat and the natural surroundings create an inviting ambiance, especially at sunset. Many reviews highlight how the view over the river bottoms is especially picturesque and calming.

Food Quality and Variety

The standout element here is the quality of the BBQ from Laughing Sun Brewing Co. Guests appreciate the flavorful dishes and the variety of menu options, making it a satisfying meal rather than just a snack. The focus on Americana BBQ means smoky, tender meats and classic sides—perfect for comfort food lovers.

Safety and Comfort

Being US Coast Guard inspected and staffed with trained crew means you’re in good hands. Reviewers have appreciated the professionalism—some mention crew members undergoing CPR or First Aid training, which adds an extra layer of reassurance. Plus, with a restroom onboard, you won’t have to worry about comfort during the cruise.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

Weather Dependence

Since the tour is heavily reliant on good weather, cancellations are possible if conditions turn poor. The policy states that if canceled due to weather, guests are offered a different date or a full refund, so planning ahead is advised.

Duration and Experience Depth

At approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, the cruise offers a relaxed but relatively brief experience. If you’re hoping for a longer or more immersive river adventure, this might feel somewhat limited. Still, the focus on quality food and scenic views makes this duration a good balance for most travelers.

Non-Refundable Policy

The tour has a strict non-refundable policy, meaning you should be sure of your plans before booking. This is worth noting, especially for travelers with flexible schedules or uncertain weather forecasts.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is an excellent choice for food lovers wanting a casual, scenic dining experience with authentic local flavors. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed evening on the river, especially if they enjoy BBQ or want to try North Dakota’s culinary offerings. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a fun, low-key outing will find this particularly appealing. It’s also suitable for travelers who prioritize safety and comfort—the certified vessel and trained staff offer peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

The BBQ Dinner Cruise featuring Laughing Sun BBQ offers a charming way to combine scenic river views with hearty, authentic American BBQ. With a friendly crew, a safe vessel, and a picturesque setting, it provides a relaxed yet engaging experience that captures a slice of North Dakota life. The inclusion of quality food and a beautiful backdrop makes it a worthwhile activity—especially if you enjoy good eats and peaceful water scenery.

While it’s not a lengthy tour, the balance of good food, safety, and scenic views makes this cruise a solid choice for a relaxed evening. Perfect for travelers who want a taste of local cuisine without fuss and enjoy the quiet beauty of the Missouri River.

FAQ

Is the BBQ Dinner Cruise suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a family-friendly activity, especially if your group enjoys casual dining and scenic views.

What’s included in the ticket price?
The ticket covers the BBQ meal from Laughing Sun Brewing Co., restroom access onboard, and an audio guide. Drinks are available for purchase.

Can I buy alcoholic beverages during the cruise?
Yes, there is a full-service bar available for additional purchase, offering a variety of drinks to pair with your BBQ meal.

What happens if the weather is poor?
This experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the cruise?
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a convenient activity for an early evening.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at The Landing, 1700 River Rd, Bismarck, ND.

Is the vessel equipped with safety features?
Yes, it is US Coast Guard inspected, tested, and certified, with crew trained in CPR and First Aid.

Are there options for vegetarians or special dietary needs?
The provided information highlights BBQ Americana options, but specific dietary accommodations aren’t detailed. It’s best to check with the supplier directly.

Can I bring my own alcohol?
The tour offers a full bar for purchase; bringing your own alcohol isn’t mentioned, so it’s likely not permitted.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, the cruise is booked around 130 days in advance, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot.

This detailed review hopes to help you decide if this scenic, flavorful cruise is right for your North Dakota adventure. From the quality food to safety measures and beautiful river views, it’s a solid choice for a relaxed, enjoyable evening on the Missouri River.