Monday Night Burrito Bowl Cruise on Lake Minnetonka

If you’re looking for a different way to combine sightseeing with a casual, tasty meal, the Monday Night Burrito Bowl Cruise on Lake Minnetonka offers a relaxed and family-friendly experience. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, the concept of gliding past beautiful lakefront homes while assembling your own burrito bowl sounds like a lively, engaging way to spend an evening — especially for those who appreciate scenic views and good food.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are its casual vibe and customizable meal—you get to tailor your own burrito or burrito bowl with fresh ingredients, all while soaking in the vistas of Big Island’s stunning homes, parks, and marinas. We also love that it’s family-friendly, catering to kids as young as two, and that drinks are available for purchase to complement your meal.

However, one consideration to keep in mind is that this cruise runs in the evening, starting at 5:30 pm, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a sunset or early evening setting. If you’re craving a lively, informal dinner combined with scenic beauty, this cruise might be just the ticket. It’s ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy casual dining with a view.

Key Points

• Scenic views of Lake Minnetonka’s lakeside homes, parks, and marinas
• Build-your-own burrito bowl with fresh, customizable ingredients
• Family-friendly environment suitable for children age 2 and up
• Two-hour narrated cruise providing insight into the area’s sights
• Affordable price point at $39.95 per person, included food and a fun atmosphere
• Drinks available for purchase to enhance the dining experience

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting the Scene: A Relaxed Evening on Lake Minnetonka

This cruise departs from the Port of Excelsior, a charming lakeside town with a friendly, small-town vibe. The cruise itself takes about two hours, during which you’ll be on a two-story yacht that offers plenty of space and good views. As you set sail, the gentle rocking of the boat combined with the cool evening air creates a laid-back, convivial atmosphere.

The Scenic Cruise: Views of Big Island and Beyond

Once underway, the boat glides past Big Island, a prominent feature of Lake Minnetonka. The narrated tour provides a clever balance, giving you interesting tidbits about the area’s homes, parks, and marinas. We loved the way the boat offers an unobstructed view from both decks, letting everyone get a good look at the lakeside mansions and natural beauty surrounding the water.

The scenery here isn’t just eye candy — it’s a chance to appreciate the luxurious lakeside living that Minnesota is famous for, with some properties boasting impressive docks and lush grounds. The boat’s slow pace means you can snap photos without feeling hurried, and the relaxed environment makes for easy conversation.

The Main Event: Building Your Burrito Bowl

The centerpiece of this experience is, of course, the build-your-own burrito bowl. Once settled on the boat, you’ll find a variety of fresh ingredients laid out for you, including pulled pork, chicken, salsa, guacamole, shredded lettuce, cheese, beans, and rice. The inclusion of taco chips and a cookie dessert adds a fun, snack-like touch.

What we appreciated is how straightforward and generous the food options are. The ingredients appear fresh and well-prepared, making it easy to craft a satisfying meal that suits your taste. Whether you prefer a spicy salsa or a milder option, the customization means everyone can tailor their bowl to their liking.

The Atmosphere: Casual, Family-Friendly, and Fun

This isn’t a formal dinner cruise; it’s more of a lively, informal gathering. Families seem to enjoy it, thanks to the uncomplicated food and the easygoing vibe. It’s a great way for kids to enjoy a boat ride while indulging in a meal that’s tailored to their preferences.

As some reviews note, the cruise is perfect for those who enjoy a casual atmosphere and appreciate scenic views. Drinks—such as beer, wine, and cocktails—are available for purchase, allowing adults to unwind further.

Price and Value: Does It Add Up?

At $39.95 per person, this experience offers a lot of value. For that price, you get a scenic cruise, a customizable meal, and a friendly environment. Compared to traditional dinner cruises, the focus here is on casual fun rather than formality, making it accessible for families and groups on a budget.

While some might wish for a wider variety of food or drinks included, the included burrito bowls and the scenic setting make it a worthwhile outing. Plus, the fact that it’s a 2-hour cruise means you’re getting a decent amount of time on the water—long enough to relax, take in the sights, and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.

What To Expect on the Day

When you arrive at the Port of Excelsior, you’ll find a friendly crew ready to welcome you. The boat departs at 5:30 pm, so arriving a little early ensures you find comfortable seating and settle in. Service animals are permitted, and the tour is capped at 70 travelers, which keeps things intimate enough for everyone to enjoy.

Once underway, the narration adds context to your viewings, and you’ll be encouraged to start building your burrito bowl once the boat is moving. The staff keeps the food available and replenished, so there’s no rush.

The Composition of the Itinerary

• Departure from Excelsior at 5:30 pm
• Cruise around Big Island with scenic views and narration
• Build-your-own burrito bowl midway through the cruise
• Return to port at the original departure point

The tour ends back at the start point, making it straightforward to plan your evening.

Authentic Feedback and What Travelers Say

While reviews are still incoming, the standout features noted are the stunning views and the delicious, customizable food. One review mentioned “the views from the boat were fantastic,” highlighting how the scenery enhances the experience. Others appreciated the relaxed atmosphere, making it great for families or groups seeking a less formal, more fun outing.

Some travelers noted that the cruise is well-suited for those who enjoy scenic lakeside vistas and casual dining, making it less ideal for those looking for a gourmet meal or a more structured cruise experience. The availability of drinks for purchase adds a social element, which many found appealing.

Practical Details and Tips

• Start time is 5:30 pm, so plan to arrive a little early.
• The cruise has a maximum of 70 travelers, so it tends to feel comfortable and not overcrowded.
• Price of $39.95 includes the meal but not drinks, which can be purchased onboard.
• Confirmations are sent immediately after booking; cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance.
• Weather matters — poor weather cancels or reschedules the cruise, so check the forecast.

Why This Experience Is Worth Considering

This cruise offers a unique blend of scenery, casual dining, and family-friendly fun. It’s an especially good choice if you want to combine sightseeing with a relaxed, social meal. The two-hour duration strikes a nice balance between enough time to enjoy the Lake Minnetonka vistas and the simplicity of a short, manageable outing.

For travelers who appreciate authentic lakeside scenery and enjoy customizing their meals, this experience delivers both. The focus on a fun, informal atmosphere makes it especially suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends seeking a memorable evening without the fuss of more traditional dinner cruises.

In summary, the Monday Night Burrito Bowl Cruise is a smart pick for those who want scenic views alongside a satisfying, personalized meal in a convivial, informal setting. It’s perfect for those looking for a budget-friendly, family-friendly outing with plenty of opportunities for photos, fun conversations, and relaxed enjoyment of Lake Minnetonka.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly and suitable for children age 2 and up. Kids can enjoy the boat ride and the chance to customize their own meal.

Do I need to bring my own food?
No, the cruise provides all the ingredients needed to build your own burrito bowl, included in the ticket price.

Can I purchase drinks during the cruise?
Yes, beer, wine, and cocktails are available for purchase to complement your meal.

What should I wear?
Casual clothing is fine, but consider bringing a light jacket or sweater for the evening, especially if it’s breezy.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about two hours, giving you plenty of time for sightseeing and dining without feeling rushed.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, the Port of Excelsior is accessible, and you’ll find parking options close to the departure point.

What happens in case of bad weather?
If the weather cancels the cruise, you’ll be offered a reschedule or a full refund.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund.

This Monday Night Burrito Bowl Cruise offers a relaxed yet scenic way to enjoy Lake Minnetonka with good food and great company. Whether you’re seeking a family outing, a casual date night, or just a different perspective on Minnesota’s lakeside charm, it’s worth considering.