St. Johns Rivership Co.
by Jeannine Gage
When Michelle Wyatt bought the Rivership Barbara Lee, she immediately got to work updating and renovating the floating entertainment center.
Now, she has turned her attention to the ship’s landlocked version nearby – The Sanford Galleon overlooking Lake Monroe.
“We can host everything from corporate retreats to birthday parties to weddings,” says Michelle of the 4,000-square-foot event center. “Along with the Rivership, it’s a unique offering for parties and meetings in Sanford.”
The nautical-themed Galleon is located just steps away from the Barbara Lee in the Sanford Marina. The event center’s offices have undergone a major renovation and now feature floor-to-ceiling windows, a prep kitchen, and seating for up to 200 people.
The Galleon can provide buffet meals and a full bar, or guests can choose to hire their own catering.
“We specialize in Southern-style cooking, similar to what’s on the boat,” says Michelle. “Sanford has a diverse population. We want everyone to enjoy the cuisine and experiences they love.”
There are several entrée choices for lunch and dinner on the Barbara Lee, including prime rib, salmon, chicken, and two vegetarian options. There is also a full bar if you want to imbibe. Every trip includes live entertainment. Prices range from $25 for some of the specialty cruises (food and alcohol are not included) to $85 for a dinner cruise (food is included, alcohol is not).
Recently added events include Wine Wednesdays, which are tastings that feature themed wines; and a tea service featuring all the elements of a classic British high tea, such as finger sandwiches, scones, live harp music, and many types of tea (35, to be precise).
Since 2023, when Michelle became the owner of the ship, she has completed numerous refreshers of the vessel including new carpet, ceilings, and tables. Now it’s time for the most recognizable feature of the boat to be replaced: its red paddle wheel.
The Barbara Lee will be out of commission for most of January for the installation of the new paddle wheel and some additional facelifts.
“The existing paddle wheel is 38 years old and was in saltwater for most of that time,” says Michelle. “It has a lot of rust and has had many repairs. We just felt it was time to go with a brand-new one.”
A local steel fabricator built the new paddle wheel and is delivering it to a shipyard in Palatka for assembly and a coat of red paint. The Barbara Lee will make the journey to the shipyard for the installation of the $90,000 paddle wheel, as well as a fresh coat of paint.
While the boat is in Palatka, the Galleon will be open for bookings. The event center’s many features include a full bar and a conference room.
“Starting in February, guests can use both the Rivership and Galleon for an event, like having their wedding ceremony on the boat while cruising the river and then coming back to the Galleon for the reception,” says Michelle. “Or they can use the event center for a meeting, and then go on a cruise after.”
The Rivership and Galleon can also be booked separately.
For bookings, please visit StJohnsRivershipCo.com or call 321-441-3030.