Interviewing Water2Wine CEO, Jay Denney, made me, a local Tri-Citian, practically skip down the dock in excitement after catching a glimpse of the beautiful M/Y Chrysalis bobbing calmly in the Columbia Point Marina. I was not only able to get the whole scoop on what Water2Wine Cruises is all about, but I also enjoyed an evening aboard the M/Y Chrysalis, so I could give our readers a glimpse into what it’s like to cruise down the Columbia River on a 96 ft yacht at sunset, wine in hand! If you’re planning a weekend to explore the Eastern Washington wine country, you’ll want to add a Water2Wine lunch or dinner cruise to your list of things to do!
Water2Wine Cruises was conceived when three long time acquaintances, Jay, Dave and Cindy, who’ve worked in the cruise industry for 30 years, had a simple, yet genius idea. With the Columbia River at their finger tips, they aspired to offer something unique to the Tri-City area that hadn’t been done before–Lunch and Dinner Cruises! Water2Wine Cruises was then born, and named after the desert oasis that is home to three rivers which feed many well-known vineyards. After a long, arduous journey locating the perfect yacht, then having it shipped from Naples, Florida, the four partners (Jay Denney, Dave & Cindy Landis and Tyler Jorgenson) officially started booking for Water2Wine Cruises in October 2016. Since then, locals and tourists alike have been raving over the breathtaking views aboard the M/Y Chrysalis, the featured local wines and the incredible ambiance!
Once aboard the M/Y Chrysalis, you will be offered a glass of wine or champagne to enjoy while you wait for all the guests to board. An attendant will then assign you a table. If you are lucky enough to be seated upstairs, you will journey up a small, winding staircase leading you to extraordinary views of the landscape (and a full bar)!
Whether you are in the mood for a romantic dinner cruise or an exciting lunch break with some colleagues, Water2Wine Cruises has options for everyone!
Water2Wine offers both a Dockside Lunch, which does not require reservations; and also a two hour Lunch Cruise. The Dockside Lunch is offered every Thursday and Friday Afternoon at Columbia Point Marina from 11am-1pm and has meals for purchase once on board. Dockside Lunch options include a variety of tasty, homemade salads and sandwiches. The two hour Lunch Cruise, however, features a three course meal, a pleasant atmosphere and a fun midday getaway!
The three hour Dinner Cruise features a four course meal and beautiful Eastern Washington sunsets! Upon booking your Water2Wine cruise, you will have the option to select meal choices for you and your guest(s). All meal choices change seasonally, giving you more tasty reasons to book a cruise every season!
The Spring Dinner Menu showcases: Herb Crusted Beef Sirloin with Roasted Mushroom Relish and Blue Cheese; Red Wine Braised Duck Leg or Lemon Baked Mahi Mahi with Chimichurri.
Hors d’oeuvres are served on the main deck, buffet style. The selection includes: Dolma (Stuffed Grape Leaves) and Polpettina (Miniature Italian Meatballs) served in basil broth.
If you’re drooling for more, the great wait staff will gladly make rounds to offer up another scrumptious portion!
Before, during and after dinner, guests are encouraged to walk around the ship, talk to the captain and enjoy the exterior decks onboard.
Aside from hosting their weekly lunch and dinner cruises, Water2Wine Cruises enthusiastically accepts private parties and events, including weddings. In fact, Jay was very excited to tell me about a few events that are open to the public for booking this summer!
UPCOMING EVENTS
Cinco De Mayo Cruise (May 5th)– Make your reservation to celebrate Cinco De Mayo aboard the M/Y Chrysalis and enjoy a Mexican inspired buffet, drinks and more!
Colorblind Concert (June 16th)– The band Colorblind will be performing on a special 4 hour dinner cruise the night of June 16th! Go to the Water2Wine Event Page to learn more.
Bent On Blues (June 24th & June 25th)– The Bent on Blues Cruise is offered for two days this summer and features live blues bands, food and fun! For more info check out the Water2Wine Bent on Blues Cruise Page.
For more information about pricing, booking and upcoming events go to:
or contact Jay:
Jay@water2winecruises.com
(509) 263-1965
Columbia Point Marina
Richland, WA
