Review: CRAFT Tampa’s Multi-Million Dollar Riverboat Cruise

I was lucky enough to experience Tampa's all-new multi-million dollar riverboat cruise the Craft and it did not disappoint. Located downtown Tampa, adjacent to Sparkman's Warf you will see a fleet of large ships docked next to one another. The Craft Riverboat looks gorgeous and has an extremely luxurious feel inside and out.

It was a perfect day with beautiful weather to experience a scenic tour around Tampa Bay. With the Craft leaving promptly at 3:30 pm on a Saturday, I knew it was extremely important to be punctual in case there was traffic downtown. Luckily, I was right! There was a ton of congestion driving into the city with new construction everywhere. After I found parking inside Channelside Parking Garage, there were cruises taking off and general tourism with busy streets filled with people. I paid $30 for parking which is a hefty bill to park downtown. However, if you show the parking attendant your Craft reservation when entering the garage, they will validate parking for you!

Once we walked over to Sparkman's Wharf I easily checked in and walked on the stunning riverboat. A host greeted me and I was given a tour of the large Craft riverboat. I was shown where the bathrooms were located, the kitchen, bar, and taken to our outside reserved seats. After sitting down and taking in the beautiful view, I was immediately greeted by our server Anthony who explained how the 'Happy Hour' cruise was set up. The ticket covers four small bites including one dessert and any alcoholic beverages would be extra. The riverboat cruise left promptly at 3:30 pm and took me on a scenic tour of Tampa Bay which was gorgeous. It made me realize how long you can live in Tampa and forget how beautiful it is from the water view.

Anthony our served asked for my drink order. Running low on energy, I picked an alcoholic beverage that would give me a little pick-me-up. I ordered their Ybor Con Leche drink which was made with coffee, and cream and topped with orange zest. It was delicious without being too sweet and looked like a piece of artwork. The first appetizer served was a warm pastry puff stuffed with gooey cheese and topped with prosciutto. The first bite melted in my mouth and was absolutely perfect. The second small bite was an avocado tostada topped with corn and Cotija. Crunchy and cool, it was refreshing without being too heavy. The next bite given was by far my favorite. A large piece of lightly fried Grouper topped with pickled onions and a creamy Dijon sauce underneath. It tasted so wonderful that I could've easily eaten five more. The dessert was two lemon méringue tarts with a light raspberry sauce.

Overall, this was a true culinary experience all while taking in the beautiful scenery. The Craft riverboat cruise is a step above any other experience in Tampa Bay and should be enjoyed by any resident or visitor. Their happy hour cruise truly blew me away. I can only imagine what their brunch or dinner service would be like after having such a wonderful time.

Want to know what the most booked restaurants in Tampa Bay are? Well, look no further because we found out! There are three restaurants that are constantly booked and reservations are hard to get. These are the three most booked restaurants in Tampa according to OpenTable. And they're absolutely worth the wait if you can't get a table right away!

Are you tired of going to the same old restaurants every weekend and wanting to try something new? Look no further because we’ve compiled a list of the three trendiest restaurants that you must go check out. These spots offer delicious food, a beautiful atmosphere, and some of the trendiest places that everyone is always talking about! One of them you might have heard of before because it's a must if you visit Tampa Bay. The Columbia Restaurant located in the historic Ybor City, is located at 2117 E 7th Avenue and is a staple in our community. This family-owned restaurant offers authentic Spanish-Cuban cuisine using old family recipes and traditions. When you go, order their delicious Cuban sandwich with the famous 1905 tableside salad.

Another fabulous restaurant that you have to go to is Ulele. It's on the list of one of the most booked restaurants for good reason. Located in Tampa Heights it's right on the water and right next to Armature Works. Their food is so yummy and the charbroiled oysters are a must if you visit. Of course, don't forget about their delicious seafood choices including a lobster roll that's to die for! With people all over the country moving to Florida Tampa is exploding right now with popularity. We have beautiful beaches, a vibrant city, and a wonderful array of restaurants. Try one of these delicious restaurants listed below if you can grab a reservation.

One of the best restaurants in Tampa Bay is nonother than The Columbia Restaurant. Whether you're going for lunch or dinner, whatever you get will be delicious and authentic. When you go, make sure to order their famous 1905 salad. It's made right in front of you and absolutely delicious.

Ulele is a gem with beautiful surroundings! Located in Tampa Heights at 1810 N Highland Avenue it has delicious food! This spot is famous for it's beautiful views, seafood Risotto and charbroiled oysters. Make sure you try them because everyone talks about them.

This one is a no brainer. Bern's is notorious for having hard to get reservations and for good reason. They're famous for their delicious steaks and of course the wine selection. When you go ask to take a tour of the wine cellar because it's extensive.