Photo: Jungle Queen Riverboat
Photo: Jungle Queen Riverboat
Photo: Christian Chase
Jungle Queen Riverboat
★4.5(6,023 reviews)$$Restaurant
🕑 3 hours👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger children are captivated by spotting manatees and boats, while older kids and teens enjoy the open-air decks, comedy show, and tropical island stop. The 3-hour duration may be challenging for toddlers under 3.🧡 Saved by 29 families
About
The Jungle Queen Riverboat offers a memorable 3-hour cruise along Fort Lauderdale's scenic waterways where kids can spot wildlife, admire mega-yachts and waterfront mansions, and enjoy an all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner with a live entertainment show. This vintage paddlewheeler combines sightseeing, dining, and entertainment into one easy family outing that keeps children engaged from start to finish.
Highlights
- ✓Spotting manatees, dolphins, and tropical birds along the waterways
- ✓All-you-can-eat BBQ dinner with ribs, chicken, corn, and shrimp
- ✓Stop at a private tropical island with alligator viewing
- ✓Live vaudeville-style comedy and variety show
- ✓Viewing mega-yachts and stunning waterfront mansions from the water
Pro Tips
- 1.Book the dinner cruise that includes a stop at their private tropical island where kids can see alligators and exotic birds up close
- 2.Arrive 30 minutes early to secure outdoor deck seating on the upper level for the best wildlife viewing opportunities
- 3.Bring sunscreen and hats for daytime cruises, as the open decks offer limited shade
- 4.Request seats near the aisle if you have young children who may need frequent bathroom breaks
- 5.The all-you-can-eat BBQ is included in dinner cruise tickets, so come hungry and skip the pre-cruise meal
Best Time to Visit
The dinner cruise departing around 7:00 PM is ideal for families, as it includes the meal and show, plus cooler evening temperatures. Weekday cruises are less crowded than weekends, making it easier to move around the boat and spot wildlife.
What to Know
Tickets start around $30 for adults and $20 for children (ages vary by cruise type). Free parking is available at the dock. The all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner is included with dinner cruise tickets and features ribs, chicken, shrimp, and kid-friendly sides.
Seasonal Notes
Operates year-round with Florida's pleasant weather. Winter months (December-March) offer the best wildlife viewing as manatees seek warmer waters. The boat is partially covered but bring light jackets for evening cruises during cooler months.
Nearby Eats
Coconuts and The Wreck Bar are nearby casual waterfront spots with kids' menus, though most families find the all-you-can-eat BBQ included in the dinner cruise more than sufficient.
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