Madam Carroll

Took the evening cruise to hear a musician I enjoy who was that night’s performer.
The vessel was clean and seating in the air-​conditioned lounge was roomy. Servers are at your elbow almost immediately to cater to your drink needs; there are snacks available for sale on the upper deck. Warning, though: all transactions on the boat are cash only. I was also surprised — maybe I’m old — to have my bag checked upon boarding for stowaway liquor.
Staff were polite and always helpful when asked.
One down side: if I order beer that you’re going to serve in the twist-​top can, please, for heaven’s sake, serve it with the seal intact. I don’t know you, you don’t know me, and I don’t know where that can’s been. If you want to uncap it for the customer, do it in front of me, like a bottle of wine. And when I make verbal note of such, please don’t bring me a cap from someone else’s can — understand? Germ bingo is not my game.

I’ve never experienced the dinner or cruise, but I have been on the boat for a high school graduation party. This is not elegant or charming, like old paddle or steam boats. This is utilitarian. The Madam Carroll works for a big, boisterous, rowdy party but not so much for a midnight, dinner cruise on your anniversary. If I ever take guests on a cruise, I’ll update.