We met many folks just in town for the weekend taking the dinner cruise. Then, there were others who just opted for the cruise its self - we thought is was nice to have the option. We enjoyed chatting with other passengers before dinner. For many, it was their first time on a steamboat as well.
Depending upon when you choice to take your cruise you can either enjoy lunch or dinner. The cruises are also nice for holiday's like Mother's and Father's Day, and special events and celebrations.
The dinner buffet had plenty of choices that included a hearty salad, fresh warms rolls, pasta and a noodle salad, plus tender chicken, and pot roast. Everything was tasty, and you could go back for second's, or just save room for the delicious brownie's and other dessert's offered. It was nice that they also offered snacks like popcorn, and there was a bar to the back in case you wanted a beer or glass of wine.
After dinner, we went upstairs to admire the view and unwind. Throughout the cruise, you'll hear historic facts about the steamboat. As we listened, Leroy, and I could just imagine what it was like when the boat's first took to the river. It was a different story back then - these boats moved not only people, but animals and much needed supplies. When this particular steamboat first started in 1914 it was called the Idlewild and built by James Rees and Sons Company out of Pittsburgh, PA. She's had a long history, and has become a adored tradition by many in Louisville. What's truly amazing is that at over a century, the Belle of Louisville is a rare beauty cruising the river. In fact, she is listed as a National Historic Landmark, and is the oldest authentic Mississippi-style steamboat in operation in the world!
Did You Know? The Belle of Louisville recently competed in the Great Steamboat Race against the Belle of Cincinnati.
Each year the Belle of Louisville Steamboat and her rival the Belle of Cincinnati compete in the Great Steamboat Race. The competition includes a series of five tasks assigned to each competitor throughout the day and during the race. Each boat is assigned two judges, in addition to an overall event judge from the Derby Festival, which took place in May. The winner of the event will be awarded a set of silver-plated antlers to replace the traditional gilded antlers that were presented to the winner in the past.
The Awards Ceremony takes place immediately following the race at the Chow Wagon in Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront. It was a exciting time for the crew of everyone on the Belle of Cincinnati, who repeated the win from last year. Ahh, but there's a new challenger awaiting their chance - the American Duchess has challenged the Belle of Cincinnati and Belle of Louisville to compete to the finish in next year's race. Who will win is anyone's guess?
The Belle Of Louisville Welcomes A New Addition: The Georgia Belle
Very soon, the Belle of Louisville will offer new opportunities to experience a little bit of history on the Ohio River when they acquire The Georgia Queen. This three-deck vessel with traditional riverboat styling can host 565 passengers, and will replace the Spirit of Jefferson that has served guests and the city of Louisville well. And, this means there are more opportunities to enjoy a wonderful cruise with your family and friends. They also have historical or musical cruises that are very entertaining. Just be sure to plan ahead because the cruises are very popular.
Plan Your Cruise Aboard The Belle of Louisville
To explore the history of the Belle of Louisville, current cruise specials, and to book your cruise visit the website at http://belleoflouisville.org.