riverboat cruises in stillwater mn

Stillwater River Boats

525 south main st. stillwater, mn 55082.

651-430-1234

[email protected]

Our 2023 cruising season has ended, see you in the spring!

Enjoy a public boat cruise or charter your own private boat in the most popular destination city in Minnesota!

Flooding & high water will not impact our cruising schedule!

Save time and order tickets online for your public cruise.

Explore our website to learn more about our river boat cruises in Stillwater, MN. Book a dinner cruise on the St. Croix River today to enjoy your food with a wonderful view!

Lunch & Dinner Cruises

Our river boat rides in Stillwater, MN, have a variety of features that will float your boat, including:

Enclosed and climate-controlled levels with patio viewing decks on top

Delicious meals- included in ticket price

Stocked and staffed bars- drinks not included in ticket prices

• Book Direct With Us and Save!
• 651-439-6000

Take a Cruise with Stillwater River Boats

The St. Croix River comes alive with boat traffic during the summer months, and taking a cruise with Stillwater River Boats is one of the best ways to take in the stunning scenery and glide along the water in style. You’ll also get an up-close look at the historic Lift Bridge in action as the river boats head underneath along the cruise. These public cruises all include lunch, dinner, and (often) live music—such a festive way to spend an afternoon!

As a guest at our historic Stillwater Hotel—the iconic 61-room Water Street Inn—you’ll be in the ideal location to enjoy a ride with Stillwater River Boats, as the boarding area is just a five-minute walk from our Inn. You’ll see the river boats floating up and down the St. Croix from your guest room or our rooftop deck during your stay. Our riverfront hotel is timeless with elegant Victorian architecture, paired with all the modern amenities needed for a comfortable and relaxing stay. You’ll find three distinct dining options , a rooftop bar  and warm, welcoming midwest hospitality.

Start planning your next getaway to the charming small town of Stillwater and book your room today!

Tour the St. Croix with Stillwater River Boats

The 2022 season for Stillwater River Boats opened in May, and it’s by far one of the most popular things to do in Stillwater during the spring and summer months. All cruises include a meal (brunch, lunch, or dinner) in the ticket pricing. Expect traditional breakfast fare or a fully stocked sandwich bar during the daytime cruises and evening options ranging from roast beef, stuffed chicken, sides,  and a beautiful dessert selection. Alcoholic beverages are available as an add-on cost.

The two-hour excursions head up and down the scenic byway with beautiful views of the bridges in the area, rolling forested hills, and historical landmarks. The Saturday evening ride is the most romantic, as you’ll catch the sunset and the golden hour for spectacular photographs. Parking is limited at the lot for Stillwater River Boats, so even more reason to book your stay at Water Street Inn! We have ample guest parking available, and you can quickly head to the boat launch on foot. Be sure to arrive 45 minutes before the sailing to ensure your reservation.

The Most Romantic River Excursion in Stillwater:

If you’re heading to Stillwater for a romantic getaway or celebrating an anniversary, Gondola Romantica is such a pleasurable activity just for two. It’s a touch of Venice right here in our charming midwest town. Your knowledgable and talented gondolier will take you on a memorable cruise on the calm waters of the St. Croix River. Be sure to pack up a picnic with a bottle of bubbly! There’s no better place to toast to love. Reservations are encouraged for the one-hour excursion, but sometimes they have room for walk-up appointments.

Stillwater Lodging on the Shore of the St. Croix River

A ride on the Stillwater River Boats is something people of all ages can enjoy. While our riverfront location and intimate king suites are tailored for romance, we also have larger guest rooms fit for family getaways. Our double queen rooms are spacious and equipped with everything you’ll need as your home base. We also offer a selection of pet-friendly rooms, an excellent perk for those who prefer not to leave their four-legged friends at home.

Stillwater is truly the perfect destination for a quick weekend getaway, but with so many exciting things to do, extended trips are ideal. Explore the St. Croix with Stillwater River Boats, head out on hiking or biking excursions on the nearby trails, and check out the fantastic dining options. We can’t wait to host you at Water Street Inn—book today!

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Water street inn.

• [email protected]
• 101 Water St South Stillwater MN 55082

Charlie's Restaurant

• Walk Up Reservations Only
• Kitchen Hours: Breakfast Monday-Friday 7:30am-11:00am Saturday: 8:30am-11:00pm Sunday: 8:30am-12:00pm Lunch/Dinner Monday-Thursday: 11:00am-9:00pm Friday: 11:00am - 10:oopm Saturday: 11:00am-10:00pm Sunday: 12:00pm- 9:00pm
• Bar Close: Sunday-Thursday 11:00pm Friday-Saturday 1:00am

Papa's Rooftop

• Closed for the Season

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Lady Chateau Chartered Cruises

The Midwest’s premiere charter yacht, this classic motor-yacht style vessel cruises the beautiful and historic St. Croix River. From the moment you board, you are surrounded in the unparalleled luxury of warm teak interiors, leather furnishings, and beautiful art.

Welcome Aboard Lady Chateau

Bask in the summer sun or under a star sprinkled sky. Spoil your friends and family, delight your clients, or reward your employees. Whatever the occasion, simple to elegant, you can be proud and confident that our 33 years of hospitality and seamanship assures your total satisfaction.

With Lady Chateau, you are not just booking a three hour cruise, but hopefully you are developing a relationship for life.

The main salon, featuring a bar and buffet area, leads to the spacious aft deck. Etched glass by a renowned Florida artisan highlights the entrance to this area which offers a favorite place to party or just relax in quiet conversation. The vast top deck provides comfortable seating either in the sun, or shaded areas.

The forward portion of the flybridge may be enclosed at your request. An intimate salon and two bathrooms welcome you below deck. The Lady Chateau departs from the Stillwater Yacht Club on the beautiful St. Croix River.

AWARD WINNING DINING…

Our cuisine ranges from a casual picnic of burgers or brat, to steak and lobster. Always consistent in quality, The Lake Elmo Inn continues the tradition of top ranked, Twin Cities dining.

EXCEPTIONAL CREW…

We believe that we have the finest crew, who delight in serving their guests. Many have worked on yachts throughout the world. Professionals in hospitality and seamanship, they will make you feel like “The Admiral”.

Although Lady Chateau welcomes smaller groups, we don’t offer individual ticket sales, sorry.

Directions to lady chateau.

The Lady Chateau resides at the Stillwater Yacht Club in downtown Stillwater, MN.

Boarding takes place at the Fuel Dock in front of P.D. Pappy’s restaurant.

Please use the interactive map below to receive directions from your location.

Tel: 651-430-2770 Email: [email protected]

What People are Saying about Lady Chateau

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© Lady Chateau 2020

Gondola Romantica

We can’t even begin to express how wonderful our gondola romantica ride was!  It was definitely the highlight of our trip and one we plan to do again.  Ramo was so very informative, not too much so that it invaded our romantic interlude, but just as much as we wanted.

There is not a thing we would suggest changing and we will definitely be back as well as recommend this to all of our friends.

We had a gondola ride with Noah on Friday at 9 pm and it was perfect! We were celebrating our 1 year wedding anniversary and both my husband and I agree that the best part of celebrating in Stillwater was the gondola ride. Noah was so polite and professional, but still fun. The ride was beautiful and when he starting singing it was over the top great!

Thank you for an unforgettable night! I can imagine that there are many couples who get engaged on your boat 🙂 but I hope that you were blessed in a special way this evening!

The Dock Cafe

Several of our cruises include meals at the Dock Café, with its wonderful riverside deck. Our close relationship with them allows us to coordinate your meal and your cruise. Vegetarian options are available.

Comfortable Seating

You’ll find sinking into our cushioned seats very relaxing. If the night turns a little cool, we provide down comforters for snuggling.

Bring Your Own Picnic

Bring a picnic basket or snack and beverage to enjoy while drifting down the river. Alcoholic beverages are permitted.

Great Photo Ops!

The gondolier is always happy to take your picture for a record of your trip. And great scenery along the way provides even more opportunities.

Need a romantic last minute gift? We've got you covered. - www.gondolaromantica.com/book-a-cruise/ Gondola Romantica Gift Certificates - quick, easy, romantic! ... See More See Less

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THE BEST Stillwater Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in stillwater.

• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Stillwater River Boats

2. Gondola Romantica

3. Lady Chateau

4. St Croix SUP Co

What travelers are saying

• Stillwater River Boats
• Gondola Romantica
• Lady Chateau

Stillwater, MN

Stillwater River Boats

On the St. Croix River south of the Twin Cities there’s the nice tourist town of Stillwater. The Still Water Riverboats is offering sightseeing cruises and more on the St. Croix on the paddle-wheelers AVALON, ANASTASIA, SHOWBOAT and JUBILEE II, the paddle-wheeler replica EMPRESS and the side-wheeler replica ANDIAMO.

Directions: Still Water Riverboats www.stillwaterriverboats.com

Privacy Overview

A Guide to Boat Tours and River Cruises around Minneapolis and St. Paul

• Updated August 2, 2021

One of the coolest parts about the Twin Cities is their plentiful access to water.

That’s why exploring the Twin Cities via boat is one of our “must try” activities, no matter if you’re a long time resident or just visiting for the weekend.

But since narrowing down the many options is no easy task, we thought we’d lend a local’s hand with this detailed guide to boat and river cruise around Minneapolis and St. Paul.

• The Who, What, Where of Boat & River Cruises 
• What are the most popular boat tours and river cruises in Minneapolis & St. Paul? 
• Where do cruises go? 

Padelford Riverboats

Paradise charter & minneapolis queen, al & alma’s, st croix boat and packet, magnolia blossom cruises, the who, what, where of boat & river cruises  .

As the residents of the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Twin Cities locals know a good riverboat cruise when we see one.  

• A great location?   Check ✓  
• Easy-to-use reservations system? Check ✓
• Dining and drinks onboard?   Check ✓ and Check ✓

Whether it’s exploring the architectural wonders spanning the Mighty Mississippi or sipping cocktails as the sun goes down, there are plenty of options for boat tours and river cruises in Minneapolis and St. Paul that meet all the requirements on our must-try list.    

What are the most popular boat tours and river cruises in Minneapolis & St. Paul?  

Before you decide on a vendor and dates for your Minneapolis-St. Paul boat tour, it’s best to decide what type of cruise you’d like to take.   Different boats offer different tour types; some are focused on the scenery, others are more focused on the food and entertainment onboard.   Here are some of the more popular boat tour and river cruise options:  

• Sunset Dinner Cruise – Sunset dinner cruises are by far some of the most popular and first to book up reservations.   Most of the boat operators in the Twin Cities offer some form of a sunset cruise, departing the dock 1-2 hours before dark for dinner and drinks while the sun goes down.   These tours are great for long summer nights when the best place to be is on the water.
• Sightseeing Cruise – End-of-the-day boat tours might not be the best option for families or visitors trying to fit in other items on the Twin Cities travel itinerary.   If that’s the case, you may want to consider a general sightseeing cruise.   The daytime trips for Twin Cities boat and river tours often fall in this category, with options to see bridges, well-known landmarks and do some wildlife watching.  
• Brunch Cruise – It’s hard to go wrong with a Minneapolis brunch in general. But then make that brunch on a boat, and you’re pretty much set for a terrific outing. Brunch cruises typically depart at 10 AM, have a great menu, and are a casual way to relax and enjoy the water and the weekend.
• Fall Color Cruises – From late September to mid-October, the Mississippi River between Minneapolis and St. Paul light up with some of the best fall colors in the Upper Midwest.   We love to recommend it to out-of-town guests or friends; get out and enjoy the cooler temperatures and enjoy the mid-day or afternoon fall color cruise.  
• Holiday Cruises – Mother’s Day?   4 th of July?   Labor Day?   If there’s a summer holiday you love to celebrate, there’s a pretty good chance you can commemorate the day with a boat cruise on the Mississippi River.   All the major tour operators in the Twin Cities offer cruises for these events—just make sure to snag reservations well in advance.  
• Private Party – If you’re checking out options for an upcoming private party venue, summertime boat cruises are a great option to explore. Getting a group together for a birthday, anniversary, class reunion, or corporate event is easy and more affordable than you might think.  

Where do cruises go?  

Not only are there options for the type of boat cruise, but there are also options for departure.   Choosing the tour location changes what you can expect to see and the type of boat you’ll end up taking.   Here are the 4 top departure locations for boat tours and river cruises in the Twin Cities:  

• Mississippi River in Downtown Minneapolis – Departing from Bohemian Flats Park near downtown Minneapolis, taking a Mississippi River cruise from this location means excellent views of the downtown Minneapolis skyline, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, and the University of Minnesota campus.    
• Mississippi River in Downtown St. Paul – For terrific views of the St. Paul skyline and the best chance to see wildlife in the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area, depart from downtown St. Paul.   You’ll also have an opportunity to board some historic riverboats at the docks on Harriet Island.  
• Lake Minnetonka – Looking for the best drinks and food?   Want to take a cruise on a newer, luxury yacht? Best to head west for a boat tour on Lake Minnetonka.   We love these tours for ogling at the giant houses while we sip on sundowners.
• St. Croix River in Stillwater – One trip over the I-94 bridge from Minnesota to Wisconsin, and it’s pretty clear that the St. Croix River is a top Twin Cities boating destination.   Several river tours depart the docks near Stillwater during the summer, with both traditional paddleboat options and upscale dinner cruises. This is our top spot for fall colors as well.  

The Top Twin Cities Boat and River Cruise Companies  

Ready to book your cruise?   Try out one of these Twin Cities boat and river cruise companies for the best tours and destinations:  

More than 5 million visitors have taken a riverboat cruise with Padleford Riverboats in downtown St. Paul.   They offer the largest selection of tour options (sightseeing, dining, themed cruises, school trips, and private events) and have some of the best deals on tickets and dining.   On Mondays, Padleford hosts a $10 cruise with 2-for-1 beers after 6 PM – an excellent happy hour option for co-workers and friends.

• Location – Downtown St. Paul: 205 Dr. Justus Ohage Blvd, St. Paul, MN 55107
• Website: Padleford Riverboats

As the largest tour operator in the Twin Cities (five vessels in two locations), Paradise Charters has more than 30 years of experience taking trips on the Mississippi River and Lake Minnetonka. They have an extensive portfolio of tour choices, including a full calendar of tours running seven days a week during the summer. Expect to shell out a bit more for tickets on Paradise cruises, with most tickets running $35-40 per person.  

• Location – Downtown Minneapolis: 2150 W River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55454
• Location – Port of Excelsior/Lake Minnetonka: 2 Water St, Excelsior, MN 55331
• Website: Paradise Charter Cruises  

Consistently voted on “Best of the Twin Cities” lists, Al and Alma’s boat charters on Lake Minnetonka have been offering tours on the lake since 1973.   Their fleet includes the largest motorized yacht on Lake Minnetonka, the 83-foot “Bella Vista,” and some of Minnesota’s most expensive public yachts.   Al and Alma’s cruises also feature food prepped from their Cooks Bay supper club—expect better menu options than you’ll find on any other Twin Cities boat cruises.  

• Location – Lake Minnetonka: Lake Minnetonka (multiple locations for departure)
• Website: Al & Alma’s

Located on the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway near Stillwater, St. Croix Boat and Packet (aka Stillwater River Boats) is home to one of the largest river tour boats in the Twin Cities Metro.  St. Croix operates six boats, seven days per week, with cruises from 11:30 AM to 8 PM.  Their largest boat holds more than 650 guests, with multiple floors of bars and dining and a terrific roof deck for river viewing.

• Location: 525 Main St S, Stillwater, MN 55082
• Website: St. Croix Boat and Packet Co.

Looking for an unforgettable party venue for a group of 60-100 friends, family, or co-workers?   The Magnolia Blossom Cruise company offers private charter cruises on their historic riverboat.   The tour boat docks on the Mississippi River between Minneapolis and St. Paul, allowing trips customized to view downtown Minneapolis or downtown St. Paul scenery.   The Magnolia is one of the few boats that will navigate the lock and dam at Ford Parkway, something your guests won’t soon forget.   Note, Magnolia does not offer public boat cruises; the tours are by charter contract only.

• Location – Mississippi River near St. Paul: 2500 Crosby Farm Rd, St Paul, MN 55116
• Website: Magnolia Blossom Cruises

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Stillwater River Boats

River Cruises - Public & Private Attractions & Recreation Reception & Ceremony Sites Sightseeing & Scenic Tours Specialty Dining

• 525 Main Street S Stillwater MN 55082
• (651) 430-1234
• Visit Website

We run your Private Charters April 15- Oct 30 and our Public Excurisons mid May- Oct 24th

At St. Croix Boat & Packet we offer daily public lunch and dinner cruises, as well as private charter cruises. Our beautiful paddlewheel riverboats can accommodate groups of 25 to 675. Contact us today, we would be happy to assist you in planing a company outing, family reunion or wedding reception.

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Minneapolis & St. Paul Riverboat Cruises on the Mississippi River

Explore the Mississippi River—a cultural treasure of America! Spot bald eagles, herons, egrets, and falcons as you travel back in time from St. Paul’s bustling downtown harbor through the Mississippi National Great River Park. Come aboard our riverboat cruises to see the natural marvels Minnesota has to offer.

Featured Twin Cities Riverboat Cruises

Take a peek at these popular, limited-availability Mississippi riverboat cruises.

Lunch & Lock

Sightseeing Cruises

Sunset Cruise

Margaritas on the Mississippi

Sightseeing, Dining & More

Whether you want to simply take in the wonders of the Mississippi or enjoy a delicious meal with your family while sightseeing the colorful scenery, we have the perfect river cruise option for any occasion.

Dining Cruises

Holiday Cruises

Memorable Private Events on the Water

With a unique event venue, make your next private event a day you and your guests will talk about for years to come. Our high-capacity vessels are equipped for entertainment options, delicious menu selections, a fully stocked bar, and other necessities. We have professional event managers on staff that will help you plan unforgettable weddings, school celebrations, corporate outings, and reunions, among other private events.

Wedding Cruises

Prom & Graduation

Corporate Events

Customizations & Services

What Our Clients are Saying

“Hidden Gem! What a fun way to spend some time enjoying this beautiful area. Did the sunset dinner cruise, and oh my, the food is wonderful, the brisket is melt-in-your-mouth good. I almost ate the whole pan. Went with the drink package, worth the money! All the staff was so friendly and helpful. This is a must-do item for anyone that comes to visit. Excellent value and great memories!”

“If you’re going to ride a boat, you should definitely ride one the boats down at Padelford. They have three different boats and a ton of public cruise options. You could go on a public sightseeing, a sunset dinner, a margarita on the Mississippi, a rib dinner, a lunch & lock, the options are endless. All food is created by their Chef John Cooper, who creates all the food with love and care. They also do private events like weddings, corporate events, family reunions, and anything you can think of.”

“I had such a nice experience on my excursion! The crew was polite. The boat was clean. It’s awesome to be able to have a cocktail and snack while doing the tour. It was really nice. Thank you for a great time!”

“The service was very good, as well as the food. We had a good time.”

“It was a beautiful fall evening on the river! Our first margarita cruise with Padelford. Our new tradition. Great food and service. We enjoyed every minute. Then we bought their captain’s hats and took lots of pictures. We had a ball! Can’t wait to go back. Plus, we met new friends!”

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Padelford Riverboats 205 DR Justus Ohage Blvd. Harriet Island St. Paul, MN 55107

LOCAL: 651-227-1100

A NEW BAND every week aboard Stillwater’s finest riverboat. Enjoy a delicious dinner buffet, great music and some of the best views of the river valley! Includes boat ride, dinner and concert.

6:00 pm Open to board the boat 6:30 pm Boat departs for river cruise 9:00 pm Return to Stillwater

Here is what we do aboard the boat!

Rhapsody on the River presents...Ladies of the 80s!

Oh Mickey! Ladies of the 80s

CHURCH OF CASH on the river!

Rhapsody on the River - Featuring The Crown Jewels

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401 North Hamilton Street St. Croix Falls, WI 54024

715 483-2274

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Stillwater River Boat Cruises

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Presented by Stillwater River Boats at Stillwater River Boats , Stillwater MN

Enjoy daily public cruises or charter your own private boat in the most popular destination in Minnesota.

Create lasting memories and experience the beauty of this National Parkway, the scenic St. Croix River. All public cruise prices include a delightful lunch or dinner. All taxes, fees, and beverages are extra. Show up EARLY for your cruise to allow time to park in our guest lot.

See website for more details and cruising times: https://www.stillwaterriverboats.com/public-cruises/

ADMISSION INFO

Please book online: stillwaterriverboats.com.

Phone: 651-430-1234

Email: [email protected]

Website: http://www.stillwaterriverboats.com

525 Main St S, Stillwater, MN 55082

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