Captain’s Log

In 1914, the West Memphis Packet Company commissioned the Idlewild. They had selected the best company in the United States to build the ferryboat they planned to use to transport people and goods across the Mississippi, James Rees and Sons of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Anyone who has been on the Belle has heard this much, but…

Kids on the Belle, 110 years after it was first launched. The first experience of the Belle for many people is as a child, on a field trip. We love bringing school groups aboard every spring, and watching them look around in wonder. It’s some of their first experience on a boat, and for…

It may look peaceful now, but the Falls of the Ohio were once the most dangerous part of the Ohio River. This stretch consisted of 2.5 miles of whitewater rapids that split river navigation in half. It was the only obstruction in the Ohio River, all the way from Pittsburgh to the Mississippi.   These rapids…

There are so many powerful stories connected to Black Americans in the Ohio River’s history. This February, we wanted to bring some of them to light. Whether connected to the river, steamboats history or our own vessels, here are some of the people we have highlighted this month. York York Statue on the Louisville Belvedere,…

The Belle of Louisville is known fondly as Louisville’s Leading Lady. A showpiece of the city right in the middle of downtown, the Belle has welcomed thousands of visitors every year for most of her 109-year history. With President’s Day around the corner, we got to thinking – with so many illustrious guests aboard the…

There is something magical about the Ohio River. If it were not for the river, our city would not exist where it is. For centuries, it has been both a conduit for travel and exploration and a gathering place. The river provides us all with a unique perspective. We mean this literally: where can you…

This undated photograph shows the Belle during her Idlewild years (1914-1947) wintering on the snowy banks of Alton Slough, IL. A Legacy of Care Built in 1914, the Belle of Louisville is entering her 110th year. Her legacy as the oldest operating Mississippi River-style steamboat in the world is due in no small part to…

It’s that time of year, when the to-do list is long, but holiday cheer is on the horizon. ‘Tis the season of giving, and that always means lots of options. You’re here, so we know you have good taste! Read on to learn more about some of the most unique gifts you can give this…

For this month’s edition of our Crew Spotlight series, we are interviewing Belle of Louisville Riverboat’s Alternate Chief Engineer, Tom Coursen! Tom began working as a Fireman and Striker 20 years ago and has since worked his way up to become Alternate Chief Engineer! Read on to learn more about Tom’s role at Belle of…

The Belle of Louisville—built in 1914—is the oldest operating Mississippi River-style steamboat in America. The Belle is joined by another historical vessel—Life Saving Station #10—and the Mary M. Miller to form Belle of Louisville Riverboats, with two of our three riverboats offering cruises up the Ohio River. Each of our crew members play an important…

If you are looking for something new and exciting to do, look no further than the Belle of Louisville! Families in Kentucky and Indiana (or anywhere, really) can use our Annual Pass to cruise on our riverboats all season long. With a list of amazing perks from unlimited Leisure Cruises to free popcorn every time you’re on board, it’s…

by Kimberly Alonzo, Content and Programming Intern Working at the Belle of Louisville Riverboats has been nothing short of a dream come true. Every day feels like an adventure, and I have had some unforgettable experiences that have made this job truly special. Here are my top five moments that have defined my time here….