Sunday Dinner Show Cruise on Lake Minnetonka

A Delightful Evening on Lake Minnetonka: The Sunday Dinner Show Cruise

Our review of the Sunday Dinner Show Cruise on Lake Minnetonka offers a glimpse into an experience that promises good food, lively tunes, and a peaceful boat ride. While we haven’t been aboard ourselves, the details reveal a well-rounded outing suited especially for those seeking a casual, family-friendly evening with a scenic backdrop. Two standout features catch our eye: the delicious Italian buffet and the live music covering hits from the 70s, 80s, and today. A possible consideration is that the experience is limited to a small group—up to 20 travelers—which could be perfect for a cozy, intimate atmosphere or less ideal for those craving a larger crowd.

This cruise is best suited for families, groups of friends, or anyone who appreciates a relaxed setting where good food and music are the main attractions. If you’re looking for a way to unwind on Lake Minnetonka without fuss, this might just fit the bill.

Key Points

• Relaxed Two-Hour Cruise: Enjoy scenic views of Lake Minnetonka in a laid-back setting.
• Live Music: Songs from the 70s, 80s, and current hits create a lively, nostalgic atmosphere.
• Tasty Italian Buffet: Features chicken fettuccine and a dessert bar, with vegetarian and vegan options available.
• Inclusive Drinks: Free unlimited soft drinks plus a cash bar for adult beverages.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 20 travelers for a more intimate vibe.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Starts at the Port of Excelsior, easy to access near public transportation.

An Authentic Lake Minnetonka Experience

The Sunday Dinner Show Cruise offers more than just a boat ride—it’s a way to enjoy Lake Minnetonka from a different perspective. The boat itself is likely comfortable, with a boat captain guiding you across the shimmering surface, providing some scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere. This two-hour cruise is timed just right—not too long, not too short—making it ideal for an evening outing.

The highlight, undoubtedly, is the Italian buffet. The menu includes chicken fettuccine and a dessert bar, which should appeal to those craving comforting, familiar flavors. For vegetarians and vegans, options are available, making this accessible to a variety of dietary preferences. Imagine sitting at a table with friends or family, plates piled high, while the boat gently rocks on the water—there’s something charming about sharing good food in this setting.

Adding to the ambiance is the live music. Covering classics, rock and roll, and country from different eras, the musicians create a lively backdrop. The music isn’t just background noise; it’s a key part of the experience, encouraging sing-alongs and creating a festive feel. Review comments mention the music’s nostalgic vibe as a highlight, and it’s easy to see why.

Itinerary Breakdown and What You Can Expect

Starting at the Port of Excelsior around 5:30 pm, the cruise begins on Lake Minnetonka, renowned for its shimmering waters and lovely shoreline. The departure time makes it a perfect option for an early dinner, avoiding late-night fatigue and letting you enjoy the lake views as the sun sets.

The cruise lasts approximately two hours, during which you’ll be treated to scenic vistas and a series of musical performances. The live entertainment is the core of this cruise—expect songs from notable decades, with a mix of classic and more recent hits. Guests have commented on the lively, upbeat atmosphere; one noted that the music ranged from “classics to country,” which adds variety to the night.

The dining experience is designed to be casual and satisfying. The Italian buffet includes chicken fettuccine, a comfort-food favorite, paired with a dessert bar to satisfy any sweet tooth. The buffet style means you can serve yourself, enhancing the social aspect of the meal. The availability of vegetarian and vegan options is a thoughtful touch, making sure everyone can enjoy the meal.

The drinks are another plus—unlimited soft drinks included in the price, and a cash bar for adult beverages. Whether you’re enjoying a soda or a cocktail, it’s all part of the relaxed cruise vibe.

Group size is intentionally kept small—up to 20 travelers—which fosters a friendly, intimate environment. This might be less ideal if you’re looking for a large, bustling party, but it works well for those who prefer a cozy, more personal experience.

Practical Details and Considerations

Timing-wise, the cruise begins at 5:30 pm, so plan to arrive a little earlier to settle in. The ticket price of $44.95 per person is reasonable considering the included food, drinks, and entertainment. When you compare it to other dining or entertainment options, the value lies in the combination of scenic lake views, live music, and a hearty buffet.

The service animals are allowed, which is helpful for travelers with pets. The activity is suitable for most travelers, including families, but keep in mind the group size limit of 20 might mean a quieter, more relaxed environment rather than a lively party scene.

Weather is an important factor—since the tour is outdoors, poor weather might lead to cancellation or rescheduling. The policy is flexible, offering a full refund or alternative date if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

Finally, booking is straightforward with mobile tickets, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind when planning your evening.

The Authenticity of a Lake Minnetonka Night Out

The beauty of this cruise is its simplicity. It’s not a high-end dinner service or a fancy cruise; instead, it’s a straight-talking, enjoyable evening designed to give you a taste of Lake Minnetonka’s charms. The live music adds a nostalgic, communal vibe, and the Italian buffet provides hearty, familiar flavors, making it perfect for families or groups of friends.

While reviews are currently sparse, the positive comments about the delicious food and lively music suggest this cruise hits the right notes for many. The small group size makes for a more personal experience, often leading to a friendly, convivial atmosphere.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience is best for those who want a relaxed evening with good food, live music, and lake views. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with family, friends, or a small group seeking a casual outing. The focus on comfort, authenticity, and fun makes it a good choice for visitors to Minneapolis-Saint Paul who want to add a scenic, musical touch to their trip.

If you enjoy live performances, hearty buffet dinners, and lakeside scenery without the fuss of formal dining or large crowds, this cruise should fit your plans perfectly.

The Sum Up

The Sunday Dinner Show Cruise on Lake Minnetonka offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to experience the beauty of this scenic lake while indulging in comfort food and lively music. For roughly two hours, you’ll be treated to scenic views, a tasty Italian buffet, and the nostalgic sounds of hits from multiple decades—perfectly suited for a relaxed, family-friendly outing.

While it’s not a luxurious or over-the-top experience, the charm lies in its simplicity and authenticity. The small group size enhances the intimate atmosphere, making it suitable for those who prefer a cozy, convivial vibe. The inclusion of unlimited soft drinks, vegetarian options, and a casual setting makes it a good value for the price.

This cruise is best suited for travelers seeking a mellow, scenic evening that combines good food, live music, and lakeside views. It’s a great way to unwind after exploring Minneapolis-Saint Paul or to enjoy a special night out on Lake Minnetonka.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
The ticket price includes a two-hour dinner cruise, a buffet with chicken fettuccine and dessert bars, free unlimited soft drinks, and live music entertainment.

What type of music will be played?
The live music features hits from the 70s, 80s, and today, covering classics, rock, roll, and country.

Is vegetarian or vegan food available?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available to accommodate different dietary preferences.

What is the start time?
The cruise begins at 5:30 pm, and it’s recommended to arrive a little earlier.

How many people will be on the cruise?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, making for an intimate experience.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes. If the weather is poor, the activity may be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted onboard.

Where does the cruise start?
The meeting point is the Port of Excelsior at 2 Water Street, Excelsior, MN.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially since soft drinks are included and the atmosphere is relaxed.

How do I book tickets?
Tickets can be purchased via mobile, and the process is straightforward through the booking platform.

This cruise offers a delightful way to enjoy Lake Minnetonka without pretension, combining scenic views, good company, and easy-going entertainment. It’s a practical choice for anyone wanting a taste of local charm with minimal fuss.