We cruise 7 days a week! We will be moored at the Mariner's Inn on Lake Mendota waiting to show your group miles of beautiful shoreline. All cruises include a captain and crew, restrooms, and food service aboard one of our motoryachts. We cruising day and night mid-June through mid-October. A "Private Charter Cruise" is a cruise where the entire yacht is reserved for only your group.
These cruises run any time, day or night, on any date starting mid-June through mid-October. There are several menu and beverage options to choose from. One contact person representing the group completes a contract with the help of our office crew to ensure your event is a great success.
These cruises run any time, day or night, on any date starting mid-June through mid-October. There are several menu and beverage options to choose from. One contact person representing the group completes a contract with the help of our office crew to ensure your event is a great success.
Services
There has never been a better way to experience Madison than this. From the deck of the Betty Lou, listen to the sound of lapping waves and feel the breeze on your face. Whether you are standing on the open deck or relaxing in our spacious cabin, you have got the best seat in town. Our motoryachts are fully equipped, and our experienced crew is prepared to make your cruise a carefree event to remember.
Betty Lou Cruises wants to accommodate your group in a fashion that makes everyone feel safe, follows guidelines, and makes sure everyone enjoys the special event! Please call the Betty Lou office for the latest Dane County Health Orders. There is a $800 sales minimum for Private Charters, regardless of the number of guests cruising.
We are moored at the Mariner's Inn on Lake Mendota waiting to show your group miles of beautiful shoreline. Space is limited and demand is high, so make your reservation for a Public cruise on beautiful Lake Mendota! Gift Certificates always available. Betty Lou Cruises wants to accommodate all onboard in a fashion that makes everyone feel safe, follows guidelines, and makes sure everyone enjoys the Public cruise!
Fireworks start at approximately 9:15 pm and last approximately 30-45 minutes. A three hour cruise complete with yacht, captain, crew and buffet food service. A non-refundable deposit of half the sales minimum is required. Full balance due 10 days prior to your cruise. Your cruise is considered reserved when your signed contract and deposit are received in our office.
Experience Madison the way it is meant to be seen - from the water! Come aboard Betty Lou Cruises for incredible views of Madison from Lake Mendota. Experience the Madison skyline, highlights along the shoreline, and the history of this fascinating city. You will also enjoy the personal touch service, food and beverages, and outstanding hospitality that makes Betty Lou Cruises one of the city's top attractions.
Reviews (26)
Kat Zahm
Jul 27, 2021
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MikaylaBeth K.
Jul 15, 2019
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Went on an evening cruise - it was a bit buggy (can't control) & the staff was really great. They had a few apps for us and the drinks were reasonable. The sound system on our boat was not the best, but there was plenty of seating. Would consider doing a day cruise but probably not another night cruise, even though Madison from the water at night was pretty.
Jim Swegle
Jul 04, 2019
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I am truly disappointed that my trip was canceled 3 hours before my trip was supposed to depart. A friend and I had plans on going to the Friday Seafood train lake Monona. We had made arrangements to stay in a hotel close by and had organized our plans around this trip. We were shocked and disappointed that 3 hours prior to departure, the cruise called and told us the trip was canceled due to low attendance. I know it says that this can happen, but it would have been nice to know earlier. I was not only out of plans for that chunk of time but could not cancel our other accommodations without being
Jennifer L.
Jun 11, 2019
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Food - 1 star
Everything else - 4 stars
We did a dinner cruise on a Friday night. There were 2 people in my party and 12 in a birthday party. The captain arrived on time and explained everything thoroughly. He was pleasant and knowledgeable.
I agree with the other reviews about the boat being dated. If you're looking for a high end dinner cruise this isn't the place for you. The boat is modest and is functional for its purpose. There is an upstairs and downstairs and bathrooms on board.
I get motion sickness but this boat ride is slow enough to not have caused me any issues.
The
Everything else - 4 stars
We did a dinner cruise on a Friday night. There were 2 people in my party and 12 in a birthday party. The captain arrived on time and explained everything thoroughly. He was pleasant and knowledgeable.
I agree with the other reviews about the boat being dated. If you're looking for a high end dinner cruise this isn't the place for you. The boat is modest and is functional for its purpose. There is an upstairs and downstairs and bathrooms on board.
I get motion sickness but this boat ride is slow enough to not have caused me any issues.
The
Tom Robbins
Nov 15, 2018
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Brendan S.
Sep 16, 2018
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Linda Boxrucker
Aug 08, 2018
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Maxine T.
Jul 25, 2018
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I was pretty disappointed with my cruise choice. You get to pick the option of lake Monona or lake Mendota, we picked lake Mendota. The cruise was from 8-11pm. It came with unlimited sangria, miller lite and soda, they also had appetizers to start (veggies, chips, etc) then the meal was a BBQ buffet with pulled pork, chicken, mac n cheese, and an ice cream sundae bar for dessert. The captains were real nice, there was 2 onboard which they took turns driving. I was disappointed in the view of the fireworks on the lake, we did not get close enough to see the fireworks and we also sat in the back
Annisa Baker
Jun 03, 2018
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We surprised our parents on their 50th wedding anniversary! We had an amazing time with all their friends and family. I recommend renting the whole boat and do a family celebration! Surprise your parents, grandparents, etc. with a special cruise they will never forget! The food and service was awesome too! Great people!
Karen S.
May 19, 2018
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Marissa Weiss
Nov 27, 2017
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My husband and I had our rehearsal dinner cruise on the Betty Loud as a private chartered cruise and IT WAS AMAZING! The captain and staff were very friendly, accommodating, and always asking the guests if they needed anything. The food was awesome, but the views were spectacular. I highly suggest using this company for private cruises as well as the public ones which we have done before, as different themes were very unique and fun. The atmosphere is something you can't get sitting at a restaurant. YAY BETTY LOU!
Jenny S.
Oct 16, 2017
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My husband and I had our rehearsal dinner on a private chartered Betty Lou this past September and it was perfect. Multiple guests told me it was the best rehearsal dinner they'd ever been to. The food was good (not great) but what made it 5 stars was the wonderful staff, captain and views. The staff went above and beyond for us the entire night and the views from Lake Mendota couldn't be beat. The pictures from sunset are simply amazing. If you're looking for a unique setting for a private event of any kind, look no further.
Lila Johnson
Oct 08, 2017
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Oh, Betty Lou
If you want to see Madison, WI from a different perspective, try by water with the help of Betty Lou Cruises. With the use of a motor yacht, you view the shorelines of Lake Monona and Mendota and learn Madison’s history along the waters gentle waves.
During a company trip, we took sail in September, just as the trees were turning colors and the skyline was like a painting. Some of us sat inside the cabin while others took advantage of the upper deck.
The appetizers served were varied and delicious. The crew were professional, not stuffy or unapproachable. The captain pointed
If you want to see Madison, WI from a different perspective, try by water with the help of Betty Lou Cruises. With the use of a motor yacht, you view the shorelines of Lake Monona and Mendota and learn Madison’s history along the waters gentle waves.
During a company trip, we took sail in September, just as the trees were turning colors and the skyline was like a painting. Some of us sat inside the cabin while others took advantage of the upper deck.
The appetizers served were varied and delicious. The crew were professional, not stuffy or unapproachable. The captain pointed
Steve R.
Jul 29, 2017
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Rip off won't refund your money for the two trips we canceled after they said they would .We have been a customer of Betty Lou Cruises for over 20 years we go on average of six boat rides which include dinner. The offer prime rib which they gave me half of a slice which was all fat I asked if I could have more and they refused to give me more saying that there's 32 people for one prime rib. The music is so loud on the boat I could hardly have a conversation or usually go on about six cruises a year I will no longer be going on any cruises. As far as I'm concerned this is a waste
Erin Q.
Jul 17, 2017
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Today we did the champagne Brunch cruise and it was awesome! We did Lake Mendota, as we live in Monona, and thought the scenery and sights were amazing, tons of fun stuff to see!
Food- very good, and plenty of it! Save room for delicious desserts like chocolate covered strawberries, spoonfuls of cookie dough, and cheesecake bites.
Mimosas were flowin'!! Brandon is a great host, very friendly and kept everyone's glass full.
Seats- this is true, it's not a very big boat, and they pack it in. You have to be strategic with your seats. We ended up next to a huge family of 13, which
Food- very good, and plenty of it! Save room for delicious desserts like chocolate covered strawberries, spoonfuls of cookie dough, and cheesecake bites.
Mimosas were flowin'!! Brandon is a great host, very friendly and kept everyone's glass full.
Seats- this is true, it's not a very big boat, and they pack it in. You have to be strategic with your seats. We ended up next to a huge family of 13, which
Alice D.
May 27, 2017
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Betty Lou Cruises are great for celebrating an occasion or even just for amping up a lazy weekend. I've managed to completely luck out with weather both times I've been on the cruises, so my review counts for the best-case scenario! I was surprised by how many people fit on the boat; I honestly only felt crowded when running into somebody while going up and down the stairs for food. I would say that the top floor outdoor seating is the best- you're in the fresh air and don't have to worry about people shuffling around you to reach the buffet! Your best bet for getting the seat
Claire Blankenship
May 26, 2017
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We had our wedding on the Betty Lou early fall of 2017 and it was FANTASTIC! The office staff as well as the crew on board with us were nothing short of phenomenal. Everyone went above and beyond to take care of every need we thought of and some aspects we did not. They had the champagne ready to pass right after the ceremony; which was a perfect start to the celebration. This was the best venue for us to have an intimate wedding, and our guests loved being on board for the celebration! Thank you again to the staff and crew for an amazing wedding!
Emily R.
Oct 13, 2016
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I wanted so bad for this to be the best Madison experience of my life! But it wasn't. We ordered our tickets a few weeks in advance so we didn't know that our cruise would be rained out. It was pouring and they had us come aboard anyway with the possibility of leaving the dock. We did not leave the dock. There was limited seating because half the boat seats are exposed. It was wet, stuffy, and crowded. I wish they would have canceled it instead of putting us on a drenched boat. We left early and very disappointed. We did not pay to sit on a docked boat only to pay for more drinks. The
Brian J.
Jul 25, 2016
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Went on the Betty Lou Brunch cruise taking off from Mariners Inn doc, there was about 25 people aboard.they had plenty of room to move around with unlimited mimosa's. I thought 2 hours wouldn't be enough time for the trip but it was just right. Nice staff , plenty of good food and very relaxing. I'd do it again!
S. C.
May 10, 2016
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Went on the dinner cruise for Mother's Day with my husband, daughter and her boyfriend. The captain and crew were very nice and friendly. The cruise was fun and it was nice to see Madison from Lake Monona.
The crew was very nice about taking group pictures for us when the captain strategically placed the boat in front of the Capital and terrace.
The buffet style meal was very good and the crew was very good about taking beverage orders while also making sure we were satisfied with everything.
As I said it was Mother's Day. To the surprise of every mother on board , the crew handed out
The crew was very nice about taking group pictures for us when the captain strategically placed the boat in front of the Capital and terrace.
The buffet style meal was very good and the crew was very good about taking beverage orders while also making sure we were satisfied with everything.
As I said it was Mother's Day. To the surprise of every mother on board , the crew handed out
Jeanette W.
Aug 24, 2015
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Had the dinner cruise last night. Staff was excellent and great service. The clam chowder was great. Drinks were very good. Seating difficult. Could sit at table with friends. Had to grab chairs where we could. Food very mediocre. Everything Luke warm not hot. Nothing special for what we paid.
Cruise itself very nice but hard to hear captain with loud people talking and laughing loudly.
Cruise itself very nice but hard to hear captain with loud people talking and laughing loudly.
Sara M.
Sep 14, 2014
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Did the champagne brunch cruise. The staff was really nice and it was a fun afternoon. The food was a mixed bag - some of it very good some of it mediocre. Great service, the mimosas kept flowing!
Overall, it was a fun afternoon with friends and I would definitely recommend it as an activity. Would like to try one of the other cruises.
Overall, it was a fun afternoon with friends and I would definitely recommend it as an activity. Would like to try one of the other cruises.
Kelsi B.
Sep 03, 2014
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I recently went on a Betty Lou Cruise for a rehearsal dinner - 3 hour dinner cruise around Lake Mendota, and loved it! The staff are excellent; we received amazing service from the two waitors on board. They brought us drink refills, as well as finger food between courses.
The food is also very good. Obviously not as complex as what you would receive in a restaurant, but it will definitely leave you feeling full and satisfied. You also get a ton of it. I don't even remember how many courses we were served, there had to be at least four! Drink selection is great as well. They serve a few island
The food is also very good. Obviously not as complex as what you would receive in a restaurant, but it will definitely leave you feeling full and satisfied. You also get a ton of it. I don't even remember how many courses we were served, there had to be at least four! Drink selection is great as well. They serve a few island
Mark W.
Sep 02, 2014
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I also am surprised that there are not more reviews for Betty Lou. We did the Monona brunch cruise and really liked it.
Overall, the gig is pretty sweet, but I'll admit they have some serious room for improvement.
Major cons: value for price, selection of seats on the boat, availability of crew/service
Major pros: taste and amount of food, quality of atmosphere/boat
It was really disappointing when we got on to be shoved out of the way by a group of young children, who ended up getting seats on the top deck. If you get there early (like we did), start to line up right in front of the wooden
Overall, the gig is pretty sweet, but I'll admit they have some serious room for improvement.
Major cons: value for price, selection of seats on the boat, availability of crew/service
Major pros: taste and amount of food, quality of atmosphere/boat
It was really disappointing when we got on to be shoved out of the way by a group of young children, who ended up getting seats on the top deck. If you get there early (like we did), start to line up right in front of the wooden
Sarah P.
Sep 18, 2012
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Attended a networking event on a Betty Lou cruise around Lake Mendota. It was a two hour cruise with drinks, finger foods, and the option of sitting in the cabin, on the back of the boat, above the captain, or on the front of the boat with the wind whipping your face.
I made sure to mingle a little bit of everywhere, and I had quite an enjoyable time. The weather was perfect for being on the lake, and the time went by rather quickly.
The captain was a great guy, and his two employees were friendly and served up drinks and trays of food quickly and efficiently.
Good experience.
I made sure to mingle a little bit of everywhere, and I had quite an enjoyable time. The weather was perfect for being on the lake, and the time went by rather quickly.
The captain was a great guy, and his two employees were friendly and served up drinks and trays of food quickly and efficiently.
Good experience.
Cathleen G.
Aug 24, 2012
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Below is the letter written to the cruise line when we came home from our experience...
To whom it may concern,
I would like to start by saying a group of friends and I were very excited about tonights tropical cruise. We went so far as to follow the strongly suggested guidelines to dress accordingly for this themed outing (we had accessories from head to toe that included flowers in our hair, tropical clothing, grass skirts and a myriad of leis as well) because there was an offered prize for our efforts. The night started off well. The friendly captain informed us of the highlights which included
To whom it may concern,
I would like to start by saying a group of friends and I were very excited about tonights tropical cruise. We went so far as to follow the strongly suggested guidelines to dress accordingly for this themed outing (we had accessories from head to toe that included flowers in our hair, tropical clothing, grass skirts and a myriad of leis as well) because there was an offered prize for our efforts. The night started off well. The friendly captain informed us of the highlights which included
