Grand Ohio River Cruise

Pittsburgh once served as a key center for industry and trade along the Ohio River. Its growth in the 18th and 19th centuries helped shape regional and national commerce. Today, the city’s historical influence remains visible through its preserved buildings and infrastructure.
After checking into your hotel, take time to explore nearby neighborhoods and landmarks. Walk through districts that highlight Pittsburgh’s industrial legacy and visit sites connected to influential figures like Carnegie and Heinz. Learn how their impact still shapes the city’s identity.

Hotel Stay
Your itinerary includes a pre-cruise hotel night in Pittsburgh. The next morning, meet in the hotel lobby for transportation to the ship. Your luggage is transferred directly to your stateroom for a smooth boarding experience.

Board the ship at the historic point where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers meet to form the Ohio River. Head to your stateroom, unpack, and settle in on your private balcony. As the ship departs Pittsburgh, take in the shifting scenery from the deck—views once seen by early river travelers.

Welcome Aboard
Kick off your cruise with a Welcome Reception featuring drinks, small bites, and live entertainment. Get introduced to the crew, onboard specialists, and fellow travelers. Gain insight into the experiences and destinations ahead.

Cruise along this scenic riverside route on a journey filled with sweeping views of the Ohio River and charming small towns along the way. As you wind through lush forests, gently rolling hills, and quiet valleys, delight in a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life. Pass through vibrant riverfront communities and admire glimpses of historic buildings and local marinas, each telling its own unique story. Approaching Marietta, the city’s rich heritage as one of the oldest settlements in the Northwest Territory comes into view, with its well-preserved architecture and welcoming small-town atmosphere.

This quaint town sits at the meeting place of the Muskingum River and the Ohio River, home to five National Register Historic Districts featuring buildings that have stood since its founding in 1788. Stroll through the earliest settlement in the Northwest Territory, on the north side of the Ohio River. Listen to the stirring stories of significant events that unfolded here, as detailed in The Pioneers, the recent book by Pulitzer Prize-winning historian David McCullough.

The Castle Historic House Museum Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Explore this beautifully preserved, 1855 Gothic-Revival house, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. The Castle was once home to some of Marietta's most prominent citizens and the site of many prestigious functions. Hear fascinating stories about its history and learn about of one of the oldest regions in the Northwest Territory.

Activity Level: Medium | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Marietta Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Explore the captivating museums of Marietta at your leisure with the convenient shuttle, making stops at:

Campus Martius and Ohio River Museum - Explore America’s migration west, its earliest native inhabitants, and Marietta’s pioneers. Discover the golden age of the steamboat and learn more about the ecology of the Ohio River system. Outside the museum, visitors can take an escorted exploration of the WP SNYDER JR – the last intact, steam-powered “pool-type” stern-wheeled towboat in the United States.  
Children’s Toy & Doll Museum - Get a glimpse into what entertained and educated children in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Explore nine rooms, displaying antique and vintage doll collections, including Kewpie dolls, Barbie dolls and GI Joe model dolls, miniature houses, as well as larger models of fairy tale homes such as the Ole’ Woman in the Shoe model and a Hansel and Gretel Gingerbread Doll House. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessible: Yes

Today is all about carefree enjoyment. Make the day your own and engage in fascinating presentations and fun-filled onboard activities. Enjoy gourmet meals and signature cocktails, and don’t miss freshly baked cookies at 3 pm. Relax in the expansive lounges or feel the soft breeze on the sun deck, a prime spot for getting lost in a good book or engaging in conversations with new friends. It’s your day to simply relax and have a great time.

A Day of Cruising
There are a variety of activities scheduled on board when the ship is underway, which vary depending on the itinerary and scheduled date. Enjoy destination-focused enrichment programs with special guest speakers who present topics related to the region and ports of call, including Art Classes, App-titude Classes (Tech Made Easy), Cooking Demonstrations, Mixology (practice of making great cocktails,) Trivia, Game Shows, and more.

From your vantage point on the ship's deck, take a moment to appreciate the scenic charm of Maysville, tucked into the hillside. This town marks a historic location, where early flatboat merchants, after trading down the Mississippi to New Orleans, journeyed back via the Natchez Trace Pathway to reconnect with the Ohio River.

Explore the town's pivotal role in the Underground Railroad, where daring escapes across the river were orchestrated. Uncover the story of Harriet Beecher Stowe’s visit, which profoundly influenced her writing of the classic story Uncle Tom’s Cabin. You'll also enjoy tales of notable locals such as the bold explorer Simon Kenton and the beloved singer and actress Rosemary Clooney.

Old Washington Exploration - Complimentary Excursion
Step back in time while you tour the historic town of Old Washington. Starting at the 1790s Visitor Center, your costumed guide will lead you through this historic Kentucky village, taking you along flagstone sidewalks graced with authentic frontier log cabins and early 19th-century homes. 

Activity Level: High | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Discover Maysville - Complimentary Excursion
Discover small town charm during a narrated exploration of historic Maysville. Begin at the Kentucky Gateway Museum Center, which brings the stories of explorers, artists, and movie stars to life through award-winning dioramas and a collection of artifacts. 

Visit The Russell Theater, opened in 1930 by Colonel J. Barbour Russell, a flamboyant, well-known Maysville businessman who made his early fortune in the grocery business. The structure is constructed entirely of steel, concrete, brick, and terra cotta in Spanish Colonial style with a Moorish influence. This Theatre is atmospheric and one of only two in Kentucky. “What the Roxy is to New York,” Russell boasted, “The Russell will be to Maysville.” 

In 1953, Rosemary Clooney, a Maysville native, premiered her movie, The Stars Are Singing.  Today, the lobby is dedicated to memorabilia of that night and other items of interest to Clooney fans. After nearly being torn down, The Russell Theater was saved by volunteers who donated countless hours restoring and preserving this heart of Maysville, which is listed individually on the National Register of Historic Places.
 
Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

The striking bridges spanning the Ohio River create a magnificent entrance to Cincinnati, affectionately known as the “Queen City.” Originally a key shipbuilding and shipping metropolis, it has transformed into a dynamic cultural hub. Here, you can explore top-notch sports teams, the delightful Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, numerous theaters, and a range of museums, including the renowned National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, a Smithsonian Affiliate Museum.

Take a leisurely walk through the city streets, taking in the diverse architectural styles. Notable spots include the expansive Krohn Conservatory and the majestic St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica. For a dish just as unique as the city itself, try Cincinnati Skyline Chili or enjoy a scoop of ice cream from Graeter’s, a cherished establishment since 1868.

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center - Complimentary Excursion
The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center celebrates the brave men and women who came together to create a secret network through which the enslaved could escape to freedom. Their examples of courage, cooperation, and perseverance are relevant to this day, as you continue to deal with contemporary issues of equality and diversity. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Cincinnati City Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Explore both sides of the river on this fantastic, all-encompassing excursion. Begin in the heart of the city at Fountain Square. Along your journey, view the Contemporary Arts Center, Procter and Gamble’s International Headquarters, and the Taft Museum in beautiful Lytle Park. Learn about Cincinnati’s most well-known landmarks, including: Union Terminal, Music Hall, Washington Park, Smale Riverfront Park, Bicentennial Commons, the new TQL Stadium, and the Paul Brown Stadium and Great American Ball Park – home of the Bengals and Reds.

Enjoy the old-world charm of Mount Adams with its “shot-gun” row homes and charming district of shops and restaurants. View picturesque Eden Park, home to the Cincinnati Art Museum, Playhouse in the Park, and Krohn Conservatory. 

Cross the Ohio River to Kentucky’s historic Riverside Drive with its antebellum homes. Explore the entertainment district at Newport on the Levee and the World Peace Bell – the largest free-swinging bell in the world.  While in Kentucky, you will enjoy a breathtaking view of the Cincinnati skyline. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

A quaint town located on the banks of the Ohio River, Madison is one of the oldest and most charming cities in the state, known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture. The historic district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features over 130 preserved buildings that showcase a mix of Greek Revival, Victorian, and Federal styles.

With several local sites linked to the abolitionist movement, Madison’s rich history includes a significant role in the Underground Railroad. The town also celebrates its heritage during the Madison Regatta, one of the oldest hydroplane races in the U.S.

Considered an outdoor museum of architecture, stroll through the vibrant downtown, which abounds with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Take time to admire the town’s natural beauty, with scenic views of the river and surrounding hills serving as a picturesque backdrop.

Louisville, a vibrant waterfront town, climbs gracefully up the hillside, its spirit etched deep into the fabric of American history. This city first flourished as a crucial portage around the perilous Falls of the Ohio, now tamed behind the expansive sweep of the Ohio River’s Markland Dam.

Step into the world of horse racing at the legendary Churchill Downs, home to the Kentucky Derby—the oldest continuously held horse race in the nation. For a slice of Americana, visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, where the iconic baseball bats are crafted.

No visit to Louisville would be complete without experiencing its famed bourbon heritage. Tour a local distillery, where the rich aroma of aging spirits fills the air. Sip the refined flavors of Kentucky bourbons, each taste telling a story of craftsmanship and the history of Bluegrass country.

Kentucky Derby Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the world-famous Churchill Downs Racetrack. Walk through a portion of the grandstands where thousands of people roar with excitement on Derby Day. Your guide will lead you to the rail of the legendary dirt track where every Derby winner has raced, from Aristides to Secretariat and more. Have your camera ready for pictures of the historic track. Hear stories of the early days of the Kentucky Derby through its transformation into the event it is today. Enjoy a viewing of the epic film, The Greatest Race, a 360-degree, 18-minute media experience that will make your heart race and your emotions soar. Be treated to Mint Juleps and Derby Pie Bites as you listen to a special presentation by an actual Kentucky Derby Jockey who can answer any questions you may have about this iconic event.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

Kentucky Derby Experience - Complimentary Excursion
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the world-famous Churchill Downs Racetrack. Walk through a portion of the grandstands where thousands of people roar with excitement on Derby Day. Your guide will lead you to the rail of the legendary dirt track where every Derby winner has raced, from Aristides to Secretariat and more. Have your camera ready for pictures of the historic track. Hear stories of the early days of the Kentucky Derby through its transformation into the event it is today. Enjoy a viewing of the epic film, The Greatest Race, a 360-degree, 18-minute media experience that will make your heart race and your emotions soar. Be treated to Mint Juleps and Derby Pie Bites as you listen to a special presentation by an actual Kentucky Derby Jockey who can answer any questions you may have about this iconic event.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

As you cruise along the grand Ohio River, experience the serene beauty of America's heartland. Witness the gentle sweep of greenery along the banks, interspersed with quaint towns that can be seen from the top deck. Partake in a variety of onboard activities designed to enrich your journey, from historical presentations to lively discussions, each adding depth to the stunning vistas that unfold before you. Let the rhythm of the river carry you through landscapes steeped in history, offering a peaceful yet engaging backdrop to your exploration. Each mile traveled is a new chapter in the unfolding story of the Ohio River, inviting you to witness its quiet waves and enduring charm.

Henderson, a relaxed river town, is imbued with stories and a deep sense of community. This town also served as the creative sanctuary for naturalist and artist John James Audubon in the early 1800s, where he crafted many of his stunning "Birds of America" masterpieces.

Just down the river, discover Evansville, a city that harmoniously blends contemporary and historical architecture. As the site of Bally's Evansville, Indiana's inaugural casino, the city offers a unique vibrancy alongside tranquil cultural sites like Mesker Park Zoo and Botanic Garden, one of the state's oldest and largest zoos. Experience the local culture with visits to the city's diverse museums and enjoy leisurely shopping and strolls through the enchanting streets of this scenic waterfront town. Each corner of Evansville offers a delightful mix of past and present, inviting visitors to explore and enjoy its unique charm.

Audubon Museum and Nature Center - Complimentary Excursion
The Audubon Museum and Nature Center interprets the life of John James Audubon through his art and personal memorabilia framed within a timeline of world events. Join a park naturalist on a guided tour before enjoying some free time to explore the Museum’s three galleries and the Center’s wildlife observation room, theater, and Discovery & Learning Center on your own.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: No

Evansville Local Loop – Complimentary Excursion
Explore downtown Evansville on your own. Take time for shopping and strolling along the charming streets of this picturesque waterfront town. Stops include:

Evansville Museum - Explore a permanent collection of over 30,000 objects from fine art to natural history artifacts, as well as the "From the Hand of the President" collection of documents signed by Presidents of the United States.
USS LST-325 - Come aboard the last fully operational WWII Landing Ship Tank (LST) afloat in US Waters.
Reitz Home Museum - Visit the historic Victorian house built by Evansville "Lumber Baron" and philanthropist, John August Reitz, and his wife Gertrude, who emigrated from Prussia to Evansville as young adults. Noted as one of the country's finest examples of Second Empire architecture, the Reitz Home features authentic period furniture, spindled archways, and French gilt chandeliers, to name a few of the home's well-preserved features.
Main St. - Experience some of the sights, shops, and restaurants of downtown that are uniquely Evansville.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Partial

Today, be on the lookout for the diverse array of wildlife that thrives in this region's rich ecosystem. Spot majestic white-tailed deer gracefully bounding through the meadows, while cunning red foxes dart among the trees. Don't forget to watch for the adorable cottontail rabbits that scamper across the riverbanks, adding a touch of charm to your scenic journey. With every passing moment, the Ohio River reveals its vibrant and captivating tapestry of life, ensuring an unforgettable cruise experience filled with energy and excitement.

Just upstream from your ship's mooring, the Tennessee River flows into the mighty Ohio River, painting a stunning portrait. Nearby, the confluence with the Cumberland River and the iconic Mississippi adds to the riverine symphony, creating a dynamic crossroads at the heart of Paducah's maritime legacy.

As you stroll along the bustling riverfront landing, you'll encounter a visual feast: over 50 intricate murals that vividly depict Paducah's dynamic history. These murals chronicle the town's pivotal moments, from its strategic significance during the Civil War to its emergence as a bustling river port that shaped the destiny of a nation.

For an artistic delight, visit the National Quilt Museum, located a mere block from the riverfront. Here, you'll be awestruck by an extraordinary collection of quilts, each an amazement in its own right and a testament to the skill of its artisans.

Paducah Local Loop - Complimentary Excursion
Explore downtown Paducah at your own pace. Visit the areas many museums and shops and stop at the riverfront to view the wall murals that tell the story of Paducah's past.
Making stops at:

Paducah Railroad Museum - Explore this interactive museum showcasing equipment and memorabilia from the romantic past of America's railroads.
Inland Waterways Museum - You can be a captain and choose your vessel type in the state-of-the-art boat simulator, as well as explore and learn about the history, environments, culture, and economy of these rivers through interactive exhibits.
The National Quilt Museum - View exhibits by renowned quilters who are implementing creative ideas and approaches to fiber art.
Lowertown Arts District & Neighborhood - Explore this 25-square-block neighborhood on the National Register of Historic Places. Look for the directory at the old Texaco Station. 

Activity Level: Low | ADA Accessibility: Yes

Patti’s 1880s Settlement - Complimentary Excursion.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and warm southern hospitality of Patti's 1880s Settlement, a place to relax, enjoy a delicious meal, stroll through the beautiful gardens, shop for unique treasures, and experience a glimpse into the past. Upon arrival, gather in the Atrium where CEO and Director of Marketing Ann Martin will provide a brief history of the restaurant and the Tullar Family. Following this, venture outside to explore the Gardens as she regales you with the fascinating story of Patti Tullar and the history behind the 8 log gift shop cabins nestled within the beautiful gardens. Each cabin has its own unique tale and history of how it found its place on the grounds, adding to the charm and character of this historic destination.

Activity Level: Low | ADA ACCESSIBLE: Yes

On a journey from the Ohio River to the Mississippi River, make your way to St. Louis, MO. Engage in onboard activities like trivia sessions in the lounge or relax on the top deck. You can always unwind on your private balcony and savor the idyllic countryside and panoramic river vistas as they roll by. 

Prepare to be captivated by the irresistible charm of St. Louis. Take in the sweeping riverfront vista, dominated by the iconic Gateway Arch, a towering testament to human ingenuity and ambition, proudly standing as the largest man-made monument in the U.S.

Engage yourself in the city's wealth of world-class attractions, each offering a unique glimpse into St. Louis' rich history and culture. Explore the fascinating stories of the mighty Mississippi River at the National Great Rivers Museum, where tales of the river's past, its people, and its diverse ecosystems are recounted.

Discover the annals of time at the Missouri History Museum, situated within the expansive expanse of Forest Park, a site with a legacy tied to the legendary 1904 World's Fair. Stand in awe beneath the resplendent mosaic tile interior of the Cathedral Basilica, a testament to the city's enduring faith and architectural prowess.

Celebrate the spirit of American resilience and innovation at the newly renovated Gateway Arch monument, a beacon of the nation's western expansion, and its groundbreaking underground museum, offering a journey through history like no other. In St. Louis, every corner reveals an array of experiences, beckoning you to explore, uncover, and be inspired.

Prepare to be captivated by the irresistible charm of St. Louis. Take in the sweeping riverfront vista, dominated by the iconic Gateway Arch, a towering testament to human ingenuity and ambition, proudly standing as the largest man-made monument in the U.S. Engage yourself in the city's wealth of world-class attractions, each offering a unique glimpse into St. Louis' rich history and culture. Explore the fascinating stories of the mighty Mississippi River at the National Great Rivers Museum, where tales of the river's past, its people, and its diverse ecosystems are recounted. Discover the annals of time at the Missouri History Museum, situated within the expansive expanse of Forest Park, a site with a legacy tied to the legendary 1904 World's Fair. Stand in awe beneath the resplendent mosaic tile interior of the Cathedral Basilica, a testament to the city's enduring faith and architectural prowess. Celebrate the spirit of American resilience and innovation at the newly renovated Gateway Arch monument, a beacon of the nation's western expansion, and its groundbreaking underground museum, offering a journey through history like no other. In St. Louis, every corner reveals an array of experiences, beckoning you to explore, uncover, and be inspired.