Is the cruise suitable for children?

Yes, the Albemarle Queen Live Bluegrass Brunch Cruise welcomes guests of all ages and offers a family-friendly environment.

Are meals included with the cruise?

Yes, a Southern-style brunch buffet is included during the two-hour cruise.

What is the best seating option?

Guests can choose between the open-air top deck for fresh air and views or the climate-controlled interior for comfort.

Can I bring my own drinks on board?

No outside food or beverages are allowed, but refreshments are typically available for purchase on board.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Specific accessibility information should be confirmed with the operator prior to booking.

What wildlife might we see during the cruise?

Expect to see herons, pelicans, and often playful dolphins along Shallowbag Bay's shores.

Savor Scenic Shallowbag Bay on the Albemarle Queen Live Bluegrass Brunch Cruise | Events | Boat Tour

Set sail from the charming town of Manteo, North Carolina, aboard the Albemarle Queen, a stately 90-foot paddlewheel riverboat with a rich history. Originally built in Milwaukee in 2001, this riverboat has traversed the Tennessee River and Florida coast before finding a permanent home cruising the waterways of the Albemarle region. Today, the Queen offers a unique and lively brunch cruise through the serene Shallowbag Bay, a lesser-known coastal gem on the Outer Banks that blends tranquil waters with vibrant wildlife and scenic shorelines.

As you step aboard at the Manteo Waterfront Lighthouse Dock, you’ll find options to relax on the open-air top deck or in the climate-controlled cozy interior, both offering stellar views of the bay’s natural beauty. The cruise spans two hours of gentle riverboat travel, during which guests enjoy a delicious brunch buffet featuring local Southern flavors. The atmosphere comes alive with live bluegrass music, filling the air with toe-tapping rhythms that perfectly complement the rolling waters and fresh ocean breezes.

Shallowbag Bay itself is a quiet spot away from the bustle, known for its calm waters, marsh grasses, and frequent visits from herons, pelicans, and the occasional dolphin pod. The bay’s surrounding barrier islands and salt marshes contribute unique ecosystems integral to the Outer Banks, making this cruise an immersive nature experience alongside your culinary and musical journey.

This excursion stands out not just for its combination of music, food, and scenery but also for the strong connection to local culture and waterways. Manteo and its neighboring harbor towns—Edenton, Hertford, Elizabeth City, Columbia, and Plymouth—are steeped in maritime history, and the Albemarle Queen is a floating ambassador to that heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing outdoor adventure with a soundtrack, the brunch cruise offers a memorable way to explore this quieter corner of the Outer Banks.

For families, couples, and solo travelers alike, this cruise offers easy accessibility and a moderate activity level, making it an inviting escape with plenty of photo opportunities. Bring your camera to capture the golden light on the bay, the colorful bluegrass band, and the ever-changing coastal landscape.

With its unique blend of Southern charm, live music, and peaceful cruising, the Albemarle Queen Live Bluegrass Brunch Cruise is a standout experience that shows off the natural and cultural riches of Shallowbag Bay and the Outer Banks like few other outings can.