The Ultimate 2025 Guide To Paradise Charter Cruises And The Legendary Minneapolis Queen: Routes, Fleet, And Must-Book Events
Planning your perfect Twin Cities getaway or a spectacular private event? As of December 23, 2025, Paradise Charter Cruises and the Minneapolis Queen remain the premier choice for experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Minnesota’s most iconic waterways. This dual-fleet operation offers a unique blend of scenic sightseeing tours and luxurious private charters across two distinct regions: the majestic Mississippi River and the sprawling, mansion-lined shores of Lake Minnetonka. Whether you're a local seeking a fresh perspective on the Minneapolis skyline or a visitor looking for an unforgettable dining experience on the water, their 2025 schedule is packed with options.
The company, which has been providing enchanting experiences since 1985, continues to update its public cruise calendar with new themed events, while its diverse fleet ensures a vessel perfectly suited for any occasion, from intimate family gatherings to large corporate galas. This guide covers everything you need to know about their current offerings, from specific departure points to the unique vessels that make up the Paradise fleet.
The Twin Cities Fleet: Vessels and Departure Points
Paradise Charter Cruises operates a diverse fleet designed to cater to a wide range of group sizes and event types, each offering a distinct experience on either the river or the lake. Understanding the fleet and their respective departure locations is key to planning your perfect cruise.
The Legendary Minneapolis Queen (Mississippi River)
The *Minneapolis Queen* is the flagship vessel for the Mississippi River route, offering a classic riverboat experience. This stately 125-passenger vessel provides unparalleled views of the historic downtown Minneapolis area.
- Vessel Type: Classic Riverboat.
- Capacity: Up to 125 passengers.
- Route Highlights: The cruise offers spectacular panoramic views of the Minneapolis skyline, the historic Stone Arch Bridge, and the powerful St. Anthony Falls, providing a unique perspective on the city's industrial past and modern architecture.
- Departure Point: Bohemian Flats Park, located at 2150 West River Parkway, Downtown Minneapolis, MN.
The Paradise Fleet (Lake Minnetonka)
The Lake Minnetonka fleet consists of luxurious motor-yachts and smaller vessels, primarily focused on private charters but also hosting public sightseeing and dining cruises. These cruises explore the famous "big lake," cruising past the lavish Minnetonka mansions and through scenic bays.
- Paradise Destiny II: A luxurious 70-foot motor-yacht, ideal for larger private events, accommodating groups of 40 to 100 passengers.
- Paradise Princess II: A more intimate vessel, 57 feet in length, perfect for smaller gatherings, with accommodations for 10 to 50 guests.
- Paradise Grand: This vessel rounds out the luxury charter options, often used for weddings and corporate events that require a sophisticated setting.
- Departure Point: The main boarding location for all Lake Minnetonka public cruises is The Port of Excelsior, located at 2 Water Street, Excelsior, MN. Some private charters may also depart from Wayzata.
Must-Book Public Cruises and 2025 Special Events
While private charters are a cornerstone of their business, the public cruise calendar is where you’ll find the freshest and most accessible experiences. The 2025 season features a strong lineup of classic dining options and unique seasonal events that are perfect for a night out or a family adventure.
Signature Dining Cruises
The dining cruises are a staple of the Paradise experience, combining exquisite cuisine with stunning scenery. These events are available on both the Minneapolis Queen (Mississippi River) and the Lake Minnetonka fleet (often the *Paradise Destiny II*).
- Friday Night Dinner Cruise: A popular weekly event featuring a gourmet menu. Recent offerings have included a decadent Carved Beef Tenderloin with Portabella Bordelaise Sauce and a Minnesota Wild Rice Stuffed Chicken Breast, served with seasonal accompaniments.
- Sunday Brunch Cruise: A relaxing mid-day cruise featuring a full brunch buffet, perfect for a leisurely weekend outing on the water.
- Sightseeing Cruises: Daily options, such as the *Lake Mtka Sightseeing Cruise* scheduled for September 8, 2025, offer an affordable, narrated tour focusing purely on the historical and architectural sights of the route.
Fresh Seasonal Hook: Christmas in Excelsior 2025
A major highlight of the late 2025 season is the involvement of Paradise Charter Cruises in the festive "Christmas in Excelsior" event. Scheduled for November 28–29, 2025, this lakeside holiday market adds a unique, seasonal dimension to the cruising experience. While the boats may be used for special event viewing or private holiday parties, the Excelsior port area transforms into a magical destination with live music, holiday markets, and even appearances by Santa and reindeer. This event is a powerful draw for those seeking a unique winter experience centered around the Lake Minnetonka area.
The Private Charter Experience: Weddings, Corporate, and More
Since 1985, Paradise Charter Cruises has been a top choice for private events in the Twin Cities. The versatility of their fleet allows them to host a wide variety of functions, providing a truly memorable venue on the water.
A Venue for Every Occasion
The ability to select a venue based on size and setting is a major advantage. Whether you need the stately elegance of the *Minneapolis Queen* for a large corporate gathering or the intimate luxury of the *Paradise Princess II* for a rehearsal dinner, the options are tailored to your needs. Popular private charter events include:
- Weddings and Receptions: Offering unique ceremony locations with the backdrop of Lake Minnetonka or the Minneapolis skyline.
- Corporate Events: Ideal for team-building, client appreciation, or holiday parties.
- Personal Celebrations: Anniversaries, milestone birthdays, and family reunions.
Customization and Catering Excellence
A key element of their topical authority is the comprehensive, in-house catering and event planning. They offer flexible menu options, ranging from casual buffets to formal, plated dinners. Their event staff can assist with all aspects of the charter, including decor, entertainment, and logistics, ensuring a seamless experience regardless of which body of water you choose to cruise on.
Why Book Your Cruise in 2025?
Booking a cruise with Paradise Charter Cruises and the Minneapolis Queen in the current 2025 season offers a fresh, updated way to experience the Twin Cities. The combination of historical routes and modern amenities makes for a compelling travel experience. On Lake Minnetonka, you'll glide past the incredible Minnetonka mansions, learning about the area’s rich history and seeing some of the most expensive real estate in Minnesota. Meanwhile, the Mississippi River route offers a deep dive into the industrial and cultural heart of downtown Minneapolis, revealing hidden gems along the river gorge.
With precise departure points like the vibrant Port of Excelsior and the accessible Bohemian Flats Park, planning your trip is straightforward. The consistent operation since 1985 speaks to their quality and reliability, making them a trusted name in Twin Cities tourism. Whether you’re reserving tickets for a public *Sunday Brunch Cruise* or chartering the *Paradise Destiny II* for a private event, securing your spot early is highly recommended, especially for peak summer dates and the popular fall foliage tours. Don't miss the chance to see the Twin Cities from the water in 2025.
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