St. Patrick's Day Cruise Aboard the Royal Princess on Jacksonville's St. Johns River

Step aboard the Royal Princess for a St. Patrick’s Day cruise on Jacksonville’s St. Johns River, launching from the dock at 1501 Riverplace Blvd in downtown Jacksonville, Florida. For two and a half hours you’ll glide beneath city lights and over slow, brackish water that is one of North America’s few large north‑flowing rivers. The vessel’s three levels—climate‑controlled dining deck, entertainment deck, and an open upper deck—offer a mix of booth seating, buffet access, and 360‑degree views. On March 17th the yacht turns into a moving celebration: Irish‑inspired dinner stations, themed cocktails, a live DJ mixing classics and pop, and room to dance or relax. Small groups can reserve VIP tables; most guests move between decks to trade river breezes for indoor air‑conditioning. The Royal Princess is operated by Jax Yacht Charter and is set up for rain or shine, with full bars on the entertainment and upper decks and seating for dining below. Beyond the party, the cruise is a shortcut to seeing Jacksonville’s waterfront—glowing bridges, the Southbank Riverwalk, and long stretches of riverside parkland. Keep your eyes on the water: dolphins and manatees are occasional visitors to the St. Johns, and bifurcated channels and marsh edges create pockets of habitat visible from shore. The evening light reflects off historic brick and glass along the skyline, which makes the upper deck an ideal place for photos. Practicalities are straightforward: check‑in opens at 6:00pm, boarding takes place at 1501 Riverplace Blvd, and the cruise sails from about 6:45pm to 8:45pm. Tickets vary by age and package, with add‑on drink packages and VIP group tables available at checkout. The yacht accommodates guests with limited mobility on the first level dining deck. Bring photo ID for check‑in, wear comfortable shoes, and dress smart‑casual with a touch of green. Why book this trip? It’s one of the few ways to combine a themed holiday party with uninterrupted waterfront views and the ease of a professionally crewed vessel. For locals and visitors alike, the Royal Princess turns a city night into a river experience—equal parts social scene and scenic tour—while supporting the rhythm of Jacksonville’s riverfront culture. Onboard amenities are straightforward and social: a buffet-style Irish dinner on the dining level, appetizers on Deck 2, sparkling water upon arrival, and full-service bars on multiple decks. Ticket prices vary by age and package — adults, discounted rates for veterans and seniors, and reduced fares for children, while infants under two ride free — with optional drink packages and VIP tables. Parking is available at the ticketed lot at the Riverplace dock; please arrive early to check in with photo ID. The captain monitors weather and will cancel, reschedule, or issue refunds if conditions are unsafe.