Beauty and the Beast Themed High Tea Aboard the Barbara Lee

Step Into a Fairytale on the St. Johns River

The Barbara Lee transforms into an enchanted floating castle this Friday, August 14th at 11:30 AM for a Beauty and the Beast themed high tea experience. St Johns Rivership Co. combines the elegance of traditional afternoon tea with beloved Disney magic while cruising the scenic St. Johns River. This 2.5-hour musical journey offers something genuinely special - live performances paired with delicate finger foods and premium teas, all while drifting past Sanford's historic waterfront.

What to Expect:
The Barbara Lee's intimate setting creates the perfect backdrop for this themed experience, with musical performances bringing Disney's classic tale to life throughout the cruise. Guests can expect a carefully curated high tea service featuring tiered platters of savory bites, scones, and sweet treats, all while the riverboat glides past cypress trees and waterfront homes. The combination of live entertainment and scenic river views makes this more than just a meal - it's a theatrical dining experience that works for Disney fans and tea enthusiasts alike.

Insider Tips:
• Book early as themed cruises on the Barbara Lee tend to sell out, especially weekend events
• Dress code leans toward smart casual - think garden party rather than formal dining
• Arrive 15 minutes before departure time as the boat operates on a strict schedule
• Request a window seat when booking for the best river views and photo opportunities
• The upper deck offers great views but can get breezy - bring a light sweater
• Camera-friendly moments happen throughout, so keep phones charged for the musical performances

Getting There:
St Johns Rivership Co. sits right on North Palmetto Avenue, making it easy to spot with the Barbara Lee docked prominently at the pier. Street parking along Palmetto Avenue fills up quickly for weekend events, but several nearby lots offer alternatives within a short walk. The Sanford Trolley stops just 150 meters away on the Riverwalk Trail, connecting to downtown Sanford's free trolley system. Multiple trolley stops dot the area along East 1st Street, providing convenient access from various parts of downtown. Walking from the historic downtown district takes about 5 minutes north along Palmetto Avenue, with clear sight lines to the riverboat dock.

Local Scene:
Sanford's downtown district offers excellent pre-cruise dining just steps from the dock. The Imperial at Washburn Imports provides an upscale wine bar experience about a 6-minute walk away, perfect for those wanting to start the afternoon with a glass of wine. Sanford Pizza Company sits practically next door for quick, casual bites before boarding. After the 2:00 PM conclusion, The Sullivan-A Public House offers a cozy pub atmosphere for continuing conversations about the performance. Wondermade serves artisanal ice cream and treats, ideal for families looking to extend their fairytale afternoon. The area's walkable layout means most dining options stay within a comfortable 5-minute stroll of the riverboat dock, making it easy to explore Sanford's charming downtown before or after the cruise.