As guests board Lady Caroline, a four-deck luxury yacht docked at the Flats West Bank, the sweet and savory scents of coconut chicken and Jamaican jerk ham might whisk them away to the Caribbean, or the tangy zing of Cajun chicken, shrimp and rice could transport them to a balmy night in New Orleans, but the familiar flavors of corned beef and pierogi will bring them safely back home.
Now in its second full season, Lady Caroline makes these thematic journeys possible right here in Northeast Ohio with a fresh, expanded lineup of specialty cruises.
“We’re thrilled to bring a variety of experiences this year,” said Ellen Kelley, Director of Operations, noting that every Lady Caroline outing is a chance to experience The Land from the water. “With entertainment and views of iconic landmarks and historic bridges, every voyage is an opportunity to make memories with friends, family or colleagues.”
New cruises and an updated menu offer a fun change of pace for return guests as well, she adds — with many passengers cruising since the days of Lady Caroline’s predecessor, the Nautica Queen. The newer ship, with its larger galley and upgraded buffet line, gave longtime chef Jay Wilson room to grow the menu from what he could prepare aboard the Queen. Diversifying made things more fun in the kitchen, and now there’s a little something for every palate, he says.
And, for lovers of the boat’s more standard menu options, there’s no need to worry. Classics like the fan-favorite, hand-sliced beef top round or Chef’s Catch of the Day continue to entice regulars.
But the excitement doesn’t begin or end with a dinner plate, says Director of Sales Jaynesha Wilson. While culinary highlights like the Taste of Italy Dinner tantalize guests’ tastebuds, the third-deck dance floor and lounge take the spotlight as country, yacht rock, show tunes and throwback music-themed cruises keep their toes tapping.
"Based on the interest in our 2024 whodunit, we added a few 'killer' new cases for guests to solve," says Jaynesha, noting the crew also scattered in a few happy hour cruises and dockside opportunities for those who might want to jump aboard without committing to a full dining experience. "Happy hours offer a lower ticket price with drink deals and some concession options. The dockside option is for anyone coming out of an afternoon at Greater Cleveland Aquarium or headed to an evening show at Jacobs Pavilion or any of the riverfront venues."
For guests looking for a more immersive experience, Lady Caroline goes above and beyond, she adds.
Tropical Escape cruises see crew and guests adorned in leis. During Caroline’s Cursed Halloween Cruise on Saturday, October 25, you might be served a smoking cocktail by a ghostly pirate server. Guests and crew alike turn up the swank for the boat’s extravagant annual New Year’s Eve Cruise.
“Our crew constantly goes above and beyond to create an experience that’s relaxing, easy and welcoming,” adds Captain James Dale. “From booking to docking, it’s our goal to make every event feel like the highlight of the season.”
Of course, Lady Caroline continues to offer standard lunch, brunch and dinner outings for those interested in the classic Lake Erie and Cuyahoga River cruising experience.
In lieu of special event pomp, the ship provides a luxurious setting to accommodate any occasion, from elegant date night to family-friendly Sunday brunch. There are three enclosed, climate-controlled decks featuring a sophisticated and bright interior that is accented by high-gloss woods and reflective finishes. Meanwhile, a fourth, open-air observation deck offers sweeping, panoramic views of the city skyline.
From immersive special events to casual afternoons, familiar flavors to exotic bites, Lady Caroline creates an unforgettable atmosphere.
“Our crew’s goal is to provide the best possible experience for our guests from the time they make a reservation to the time they step off the ship,” says Captain James. “And that's not just seeing the sights. It’s everything a boat can offer — food, service, ambiance and music.”
Visit LadyCaroline.com for the dining cruise ship’s full schedule of lunch, brunch, dinner and specialty cruises, as well as information for group outings, private charters and, of course, weddings — because who wouldn’t want to tie the knot on a yacht?