Fort Lauderdale: Jungle Queen BBQ Dinner Cruise & Show

Summary

BBQ feast, river cruise past mega yachts, laughter on a tropical isle

You’ll float along Fort Lauderdale’s New River past mega yachts and mansions before landing on a tropical isle for all-you-can-eat BBQ ribs and chicken with live music. After dinner comes a lively variety show—think jugglers, comedians, fire dancers—and time to wander under palm trees or grab ice cream before cruising home under city lights.

What’s the experience like?

We were already gliding past those wild mansions on the New River when I realized how different Fort Lauderdale looks from the water. Our guide—can’t remember his name now, but he had this easy Florida drawl—kept pointing out which yachts belonged to who (I only recognized one), and the breeze smelled faintly of salt and sunscreen. Somewhere behind us, kids were giggling at a pelican perched on a railing. I didn’t expect to feel so nosy peeking into people’s backyards, but it was honestly kind of fun.

The cruise took us straight to this tropical isle—like something out of an old movie set. There was music drifting from somewhere near the dining area and the smell of barbecue hit me before I even saw the tables. We lined up for ribs and chicken (all you can eat, which my cousin took as a challenge) and sat under these string lights with strangers who felt less like strangers after a couple bites. The sauce was sticky and sweet, and my fingers were a mess in seconds. Our server cracked jokes about “Florida portions” while refilling sweet tea. I still think about that first bite of cornbread—warm, crumbly, just right.

After dinner came the show in their little amphitheater. It was loud and goofy—jugglers tossing things way too close to the front row, a ventriloquist whose dummy kept roasting tourists (I got called out for dropping my fork). There was even a bit with fire dancers that made everyone lean forward at once. It wasn’t polished Broadway stuff, but honestly that made it better; people laughed for real. Before heading back to the boat, we wandered around—there were parrots squawking in bright cages and someone handing out soft-serve cones by the gift shop. I lost track of time just watching families take photos under palm trees.

The ride back felt quieter somehow—the lights from Millionaire’s Row reflecting off the water, everyone full and a little sleepy. I leaned against the rail and just listened to the engine hum and distant laughter floating up from below deck. Not everything went smoothly (my cousin dropped his phone in coleslaw), but that almost made it more memorable—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Cruise, dinner, show, and return

• Depart Bahia Mar Yachting Center
• Cruise down Fort Lauderdale's New River
• View Millionaire's Row and Mega Yachts
• Arrive at tropical isle
• Enjoy all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner
• Watch live variety show
• Tour tropical isle and gift shop
• Cruise back to Bahia Mar Yachting Center

Top questions

How long is the Jungle Queen BBQ Dinner Cruise?

The cruise includes travel to the tropical isle, dinner with entertainment, and return trip; plan for several hours total.

Is transportation included in the tour?

Yes, private transportation is included as part of your booking.

What food is served during dinner?

Dinner features all-you-can-eat BBQ baby back ribs, BBQ chicken, sides (“fixins”), plus soft-serve ice cream available at the gift shop.

Are there vegetarian options on this cruise?

The main menu highlights ribs and chicken; specific vegetarian options aren’t listed in details provided.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes—all areas including boats are wheelchair accessible.

Where does the cruise depart from?

The Jungle Queen departs Bahia Mar Yachting Center in Fort Lauderdale.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Yes—infants, small children (with prams/strollers), and guests under 16 (with adult) are welcome.

Is there live entertainment during dinner?

Yes—you’ll enjoy live music during dinner followed by a variety show with comedy acts and performers.

What’s included

Your evening includes private transportation to Bahia Mar Yachting Center where you’ll board for a fully narrated sightseeing cruise down Fort Lauderdale’s New River past Millionaire’s Row. On arrival at the tropical isle you’ll have an all-you-can-eat BBQ dinner with ribs, chicken, sides—and live entertainment throughout. Afterward comes America’s oldest running variety show before your return cruise back to port.