BB Riverboats: Official Riverboat Cruises

Table Of Content

• Come aboard and cruise all season long!
• Compare to similar trips
• American Cruise LInes stole from me
• Find your perfect trip

Daily entertainment will be brought onboard, including musicians, historians and naturalists. Many of our trips provide convenient dry-land travel on board our “Hop-On/Hop-Off” buses. These buses (which look just like our ships!) travel alongside our cruises from port to port, so you’ll be able to take exciting shore excursions without the hassle of worrying about ground transport. Most cruises on the Ohio River will include other waterways, such as the Mississippi, Cumberland or Tennessee River. The American Queen Steamboat Company offers a couple of cruises on just the Ohio River during June and July.

Come aboard and cruise all season long!

The itineraries  travel round trip from Cincinnati or between Cincinnati and Pittsburgh. A refreshingly relaxing atmosphere prevails onboard our small river boats. This intimate ambience is perfect for both congenial camaraderie and quiet relaxation.

Compare to similar trips

7 Reasons To Cruise The Ohio River On The American Queen Riverboat - TravelAwaits

7 Reasons To Cruise The Ohio River On The American Queen Riverboat.

Posted: Sat, 18 Feb 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]

While living here for almost two decades in the early 1800s, naturalist and artist John James Audubon created many of his extraordinary, Birds of America, masterpieces. Ask about our Current Savings and our Pre-Cruise Packages which include a premium hotel stay and transportation to the ship. For example, we offer an eight-day trip from lovely little Alton, Illinois (actually on the Mississippi River not far from St. Louis, Missouri), to Louisville, Kentucky. The trip begins on a high note in Alton, site of the last debate between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas in October 1858. Housed within a century-old mansion, the Museum preserves the history of a family that built over 3000 vessels on the banks of the Ohio river.

American Cruise LInes stole from me

This picturesque, charming town rests at the confluence of the Muskingum River and the Ohio River and has five National Register Historic Districts with buildings that date back to the town’s founding in 1788. Explore the first settlement in the Northwest Territory on the north side of the Ohio River. Hear stories of the compelling events that unfolded here which were spotlighted in the recent book entitled, The Pioneers by Pulitzer Prize-winning historian David McCullough. Here are our five tips for Ohio River cruises, covering everything from the best time to do an Ohio River cruise and top itineraries to things to pack for your cruise and port highlights. USA River Cruises provides opportunities for the adventure seeker and the amateur (or not so amateur) historian aboard one of our Ohio River cruises. Hover over the icons to learn more about some of the areas you’ll see on your time aboard the Belle or Mary.

Flowing in a westerly direction from its source, the Ohio River stretches for 981 miles passing through or bordering Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Illinois and Indiana. The mouth of the river is in Cairo, Illinois where the Ohio River meets the Mississippi River. American Cruise Lines’ staterooms, most at over 220 square feet, are by far the largest in their class. Most staterooms have private balconies and feature an exquisite private bath and a large, opening picture window, allowing you spectacular views of the scenery. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price. Cruisers also enjoyed the process of watching our big riverboat pass through the locks along the way.

Find your perfect trip

You can go set your own schedule for the day if you’re not interested in rigorously following the ship excursion program. As a person who loves his daily workouts, I’m happy that a river cruise on American Queen makes it easy. Not only is there a well-equipped gym, but the ship carries a fleet of bikes. Colleen and I started several days with a run along the riverside trails through small towns or by grabbing a couple of bikes to go exploring independently. As it turns out, it’s filled with memorable experiences and a range of fun ways to spend your days. American Queen owns a special charm and an incredible river cruise program that makes it a favorite way to cruise within the U.S.

Cincinnati, Ohio

There was another railroad museum to see in Madison, Indiana, and the town also lists the Schroeder Saddletree Factory, the Broadway Fountain, and Lanier Mansion as top attractions for visitors to check out. In Louisville, cruisers can explore city highlights like the famed Churchill Downs (Kentucky Derby track) or the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory before catching flights back home. The embarkation pier for the riverboat sits at the doorstep of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ football stadium, making for a scenic sail away from the confluence of the three rivers (Ohio, Allegheny, and Monongahela). A visit to the Jim Beam American Outpost will lift your spirits as you savor samples and learn about the history of Kentucky bourbons. Discover the area’s extensive history at the excellent Missouri History Museum in the city’s lovely Forest Park, the site of the legendary 1904 World’s Fair.

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Although, you won’t experience it onboard a ship for multilple days, you can still enjoy this amazing river as you travel along it for several hours. Event, sightseeing and themed day cruises are available throughout the year. These big cities are nice, but it’s the small towns that really make this trip shine.

An Itinerary With Small Towns And Big Cities

Time to cruise east, leaving the familiar Mississippi behind for the Ohio River! Follow the history of the pioneers who kept pushing the boundaries of American identity in music, culture, architecture, and more. From St. Louis to Pittsburgh (or reverse), this Ohio River cruise will introduce you to the heartland of America. From the start of the cruise in St. Louis, you’ll pick up the rhythm of the river. The Queen of the Mississippi will continue that rhythm with the churning paddlewheel and joyful noise of the calliope!

On your travels home, reflect upon your many wonderful adventures, or choose to explore more in the Gateway to the West. Cruise from the Ohio River to the Mississippi River on your way to St. Louis. Enjoy onboard activities such as trivia in the lounge or shuffleboard on the top deck. Mingle with guests in one of our comfortable lounges, read a good book on your private balcony, or take part in one of our many onboard activities. Get a taste for local cuisine by trying Cincinnati Skyline Chili or stopping for a scoop at Graeter’s ice cream shop, founded in 1868.

Travelstride helps you search and compare 50,000+ expert-planned trips from 1,000+ companies. Get the real picture with both traveler and expert reviews to ensure the trip you book is the right one for you. These trips are especially good values, because your stateroom, onboard meals and some sightseeing are included in a single upfront rate.

As you cruise the Ohio River in the comfort of our new riverboat, immerse yourself in our American roots from the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement. The river has a mind of its own and, as it has been since the dawn of river travel, our sailing schedules must adapt to it. It is possible that guests will be transported between a town on the Ohio River and Pittsburgh by coach for excursions or embarkation. The cruise begins in the heart of downtown Pittsburgh, and the hotel for guests is near enough to the port, parks and other points of interest around the river to keep you busy with interesting activities.

American Cruise Lines offers personalized, small ship river cruises throughout the United States. Enjoy the intimate, comfortable, and fulfilling experience of small ship river cruising aboard the newest fleet of cruise ships in the world. American Cruise Lines brings you to the greatest destinations along the inland waterways and rivers of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Mississippi and Alaska. Our modern fleet of ships offer a unique, personal voyage through America's historic waterways.

The French called the calm blue depths of the Ohio River "la belle riviere," the beautiful river. Thomas Jefferson agreed, describing it as "the most beautiful river on Earth." The 981-mile-long river passes through or borders six states on its way into Cairo, Illinois, where it joins the Mississippi River. Visit historic Louisville, KY, where the river is at its widest and deepest, and float along calm waters past farmlands, waterfront parks and scenic bluffs. Often, cruises spend time on the Mississippi and Tennessee Rivers, taking you past the famous Gateway Arch in St. Louis.

American Cruise Lines Westbound Itinerary

Table Of Content

• Plan Your Group Event
• Travel Themes
• American Cruiselines Reviews & Ratings
• Ohio River Cruises
• Reasons A Stay On The World’s Largest Steamboat Is My Favorite U.S. Cruise

The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking. In general, river cruising allows travelers the chance to explore on their own in a hassle-free way. It’s so easy to stroll onto and off of the ship at your leisure, and the towns and cities are mere steps away.

Plan Your Group Event

In Augusta, Kentucky, AQV passengers were able to walk just a few hundred steps from our spot on the river to explore the Rosemary Clooney Museum. This is the former home of actress, singer, and aunt to superstar George Clooney. Highlights of this charming town also include Bates Garden, the 1811 Jail, and Baker-Bird Winery. Begin planning your U.S. cruise adventure with American Cruise Lines today.

Travel Themes

The Belle of Louisville and Mary M. Miller bring our city’s rich history to life and provide a hands-on experience for students to engage with the past. Our Education Coordinator will work with you to create an interactive learning experience that aligns with your curriculum. One of our absolute favorite things about sailing on American Queen was pulling into and leaving ports. It turns out, the ship's arrival is an event for the people who live in the port towns.

American Cruiselines Reviews & Ratings

A shining spot for American Queen Voyages is the onboard cuisine, in part because of its partnership with noted Natchez-based chef Regina Charboneau, the line's culinary ambassador and biscuit queen. An Ohioand Cumberland River cruise will travel between Louisville,Kentucky and Nashville, Tennessee. And the river’s widest point is located west of Louisville where it stretches for one mile from bank to bank. The menu includes items like chicken fried steak, frog legs, and a variety of steak and fish preparations. The cuisine is more hearty than healthy, but you can find some fresh fruits and salads in the mix at the lunch buffets. We were always tempted by the mouth-watering selection of homemade pies and slices of chocolate cake set out each day at lunch.

Passengers walk off the ship and straight onto waiting buses with clear signage at each stop along the route at the attractions in town. The cruise also features a stop in Cincinnati and wraps up in Louisville, so travelers have opportunities to explore these interesting big cities and all they have to offer. We went for a bike ride on the riverfront, explored the Cincinnati Reds Hall of Fame and Museum, and had lunch and craft beers at Moerlein Lager House.

First impressions of a US river cruise on American Queen - The Points Guy

First impressions of a US river cruise on American Queen.

Posted: Wed, 12 Oct 2022 07:00:00 GMT [source]

The ports visited are charming, the people are bright and inquisitive, and the riverboat is the perfect way to leisurely explore while feeling pampered along the way. The American QueenSteamboat Company is the only company that offers overnight river cruises onjust the Ohio River. Pricing starts at $949per person, and itineraries are available for about three weeks in July. As you cruise from the vibrant city of Cincinnati to the hometown Americana of Maysville, enjoy onboard activities such as trivia in the lounge or shuffleboard on the top deck. Or simply, relax on your private balcony and delight in the bucolic countryside and rolling river views. If you're cruising with American Queen Voyages, a precruise stay is included with your fare, and many guests will extend it longer.

American Countess Riverboat visited Marietta - WTAP

American Countess Riverboat visited Marietta.

Posted: Thu, 01 Jun 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Ohio River Cruises

Here are many of the port highlights cruisers can revel in while on this famous flowing destination. The river marks the boundaries of 5 states (Ohio, West Virginia, Kentucky, Indiana, Illinois). On our voyage, dishes drew from virtually every area the fleet visits, with incredible jambalaya inspired by New Orleans flavors, cheese curds (a Wisconsin staple) and creamy shrimp and grits. We rarely skipped a course at dinner time, and always left the dining room happy. On our sailing, several passengers rued the fact that this was the last upper Ohio River sailing on the line's flagship for the foreseeable future. (Sister ships American Duchess and American Countess are taking over this one for the next couple years.) But fear not!

Reasons A Stay On The World’s Largest Steamboat Is My Favorite U.S. Cruise

I have been on several cruises and travel adventures around the world, but recently, I’ve felt the need to focus on discovering great destinations closer to home. The U.S. is filled with countless experiences that travelers can unlock, and a river cruise offers the chance to see so many things in an efficient, hassle-free, and fun way. Admire the scenic riverfront, highlighted by the majestic Gateway Arch, the largest man-made monument in the U.S.

Each evening before dinner, passengers are invited to mingle and share their day's adventures over complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. The atmosphere for dining is informal - seating is unassigned and dress is resort casual. After dinner, guest speakers bring local history, nature, and culture alive with their knowledge and passion for American heritage. Set your own pace on your vacation, and relish in the casual comfort and exceptional care that has become the hallmark of American Cruise Lines.

Chandeliers fill the main restaurant, rocking chairs line the railings on the front porch, and gingerbread ornamentation accents the staircases and stateroom patios of the bright white ship. The signature big red paddlewheel churns at the stern of the ship helping to power the voyage along the river. In Marietta, Ohio, attractions included Mound Cemetery, one of the oldest in the original Northwest Territory, the Ohio River Museum, and the Childen’s Toy & Doll Museum. Delight in a snapshot of small-town life here as children often gleefully splash in the waterfront fountains.

Step aboard the iconic Belle of Louisville and Mary M. Miller for a trip back in time. Experience spectacular views of downtown Louisville and explore the area’s rich history as your group cruises the Ohio River for lunch or dinner. Experience spectacular views of downtown Louisville and explore the area’s rich history as your group cruises the Ohio River for lunch or dinner.Discounted rates for groups of 15 or more. You’ll find companies that offer day and evening cruises along the Ohio River in a few different cities, such as Cincinnati, Louisville and Pittsburgh.

The Falls is the only natural obstruction along the entire length of Ohio. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, graduation parties, reunions, corporate events and more. From the best view in town for Thunder Over Louisville to chasing the Great Steamboat Race aboard the Mary M. Miller, make Derby 150 a year to remember. Your Captain and crew will point out historic locations, share river stories and help spot wildlife like Bald Eagles, Blue Heron, Deer and maybe even a Bobcat.

I had been on voyages on the Mighty Mississippi River and even a couple in the Pacific Northwest on the Columbia and Snake rivers that traverse through Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. These itineraries are fairly well known, but I was fascinated to see what an Ohio River cruise was all about. I was happy to accept an invite from American Queen Voyages to review this special itinerary. Curl up with a good book in one of our spacious lounges aboard the riverboat. Or relax on the sun deck or private balcony and enjoy the passing landscapes as we make our way along the Ohio River from Louisville to Cincinnati. Or relax on the sun deck or private balcony and enjoy the passing landscapes as we make our way along the Ohio River from Cincinnati to Louisville.

A visit to the a local distillery will lift your spirits as you savor samples and learn about the history of Kentucky bourbons. Learn the importance of this location to the Underground Railroad efforts to smuggle runaway slaves across the river, as well as the influence that Harriet Beecher Stowe’s visit to Maysville had on her novel, Uncle Tom’s Cabin. Hear stories of area explorers, such as Simon Kenton, and hometown singer and movie star Rosemary Clooney.

The price of your cruise includes accommodations, meals, wine and beer with dinner, onboard entertainment and more. Whetheryou choose to take an overnight cruise on the Ohio River or only a dayor evening cruise, you'll have a chance to experience this great U.S.river with either option. And in Louisville you can cruise the Ohio River onboard The Belle of Louisville. For cruises combined withthe Mississippi River, you’ll travel between Cincinnatiand St. Louis. The Tennessee River is thelargest tributary of the Ohio River stretchingfor 652 miles across four states.