My husband and I stayed at the Captain Merry in December of 2007 and July of 2007, and both were wonderful experiences. First and foremost, the staff is friendly and down-to-earth - no hoity-toity business, even at such an elegant and beautiful place. We were there for almost a week, and got to know the chef Kevin, restaurant manager Scotty, two waiters, the innkeeper Ken, and the spa manager Catherine, and they were all wonderful and sweet people and made us feel right at home. The best part of this place is that if you are looking for a romantic hideaway, this is it! You don't have to leave -- breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all here. To keep you occupied during the day you have the spa, which is excellent, the downstairs home theatre, and cable TV and internet access. There are even (free) snacks available to tide you over between meals. The room prices are extremely reasonable given the size of the rooms, the amenities, the quality of service, and the ambiance. I am a regular gal - high school teacher who loves to be spoiled - and I feel right at home here, but pampered too. Hubby and I had quite a few spa services, and it was heaven to be able to just walk over the the spa a few steps away, already in my robe, and then float back and step into bed to continue my relaxation. Considering the quality of the food, I think the prices are reasonable.If you are looking for a truly delicious meal that is definitely NOT chain restaurant fare, this is the place. The scallops are to die for, as is the artichoke and spinach dip - absolutely melt in your mouth. The elk is amazing as well. We were there for the New Year's party and meal, and it was a wonderful and creative meal that stands out in my memory. The staff recommended excellent wines to accompany our meals, and we were not disappointed. The chef even tried out some new breakfast menu items on us, and enjoyed our feedback. My husband choose Galena as our short vacation spot (for that's all we can afford), and Captain Merry has been the place we enjoy the most, both for accommodations and dining. Yes, you can spend a bundle if you spend a long time there, but honestly, it was worth it. We enjoyed the friendliness and familiarity with the staff, but they will let you alone too, if that's what you are after (my husband and I are very outgoing). The Captain Merry is a little gem on the Mississippi!

We have stayed there on many occassions and have always been treated with red carpet treatment. The food is amazing and the service is like your dining at the White House. The suites all are different and each one that we have stayed in is first class or better.

R. U. Aurora, IL

My husband and I stayed for two nights on a whim and felt like we were royalty! Ken (the innkeeper) was there to anticipate our every need before we even recognized that we had one! We enjoyed a couple's massage and a wonderful dinner in the restaurant. I'd put that food against any 5 star restaurant in a big city. We stayed in the English Room and could hardly bear to leave. The whirlpool was wonderful and we left feeling fully invigorated and relaxed. We're already planning a return trip!

I'm surprised by some of the negative reviews of the Captain Merry - I wonder if the property has been recently renovated or changed management. Our recent weekend visit there was very nice. We stayed in the French suite, which was huge, with a beautiful bathroom and separate sitting room. It was opulently decorated, and so comfortable you just wanted to stay inside and enjoy your room. The common areas, including the bar, were restful, quiet, and done in a classic victorian style.

The restaurant was excellent, with some creative deserts. Breakfasts were also great - I got the Scottish Porridge on a whim and was pleasantly surprised - it was really delicious.

Service was terrific and very personal. I did get the impression they were slightly understaffed but Ken, the "house keeper," was always really helpful. Scott at the bar was friendly and funny. They kept snacks and drinks in cabinets in the hall which was nice - particularly so if you get the urge for a late-night snack and no one's around.

The only downside is the location. It is very close to a very busy road in East Dubuque. For us, the attraction was easy access to the lovely town of Galena - I'm not sure there's much to recommend Dubuque on either side of the river. Sometimes traffic sounds would intrude. However, the owner had obviously put a lot of thought into make the rooms as quiet and private as possible, so this was rarely an issue.