Glancing out across Lake Monroe from the marina in historic Sanford you might be fooled into thinking you’d gone back in time 100 years. Making its way down river from its home port is the St John’s Rivership Co’s “Barbara Lee”. It’s not unlike a scene from around the turn of the century on the mighty Mississippi – a traditional sternwheeler, with its tall funnel stacks glinting in the sun, passengers hanging over the rails and a pair of bright red paddle weeks churning through the calm waters.
The modern touches are much appreciated though – there’s air conditioned comfort below decks, with large picture windows on all sides, and a slick food and beverage operation that’s run like clockwork by a cheerful and efficient crew. Once you’ve checked the box selecting your freshly prepared lunch or dinner entree you are officially done! Nothing else for it but to relax with a cocktail and enjoy the view.