Riverboat cruises

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The history of riverboats in the United States dates back to the 19th century, when cruising down a river was one of the most expedient methods of transportation and trade. Although highway transportation has replaced riverboats in that sense, tourists flock to riverfront cities, such as New Orleans or Chattanooga, Tennessee, to take a leisurely ride on the water. Most riverboat cruises offer on-board dining and the chance to see to historic landmarks.

1. Southern Belle: Chattanooga, Tennessee

   • Chattanooga, Tennessee, provides chances for riverboat cruises on the Tennessee River, via the Southern Belle. The Southern Belle departs from the port in downtown Chattanooga, and provides lunch and dinner cruises. Cruising on the Tennessee River affords opportunities to see the Great Smoky Mountains and the downtown Chattanooga skyline. The riverboat also hosts wedding ceremonies and receptions. The boat hosts parties and cruises from February through December, with January being the only month it does not operate.

   New Orleans Mississippi River Cruises

   • New Orleans, on the Mississippi River, is a highly sought-after destination for tourists who want a riverboat cruise. New Orleans riverboats include the Creole Queen paddle-wheel boat, which accommodates up to 1,000 people -- and the 600-seat Cajun Queen. The ports-of-call for these boats are the Aquarium of Americas and the Riverwalk entertainment complex. Tourists hop on board these boats for nighttime dinner cruises or to see historic sites, including Jean Lafitte National Historical Park, where the Battle of New Orleans was fought in 1815. Visitors can also ride the Steamboat Natchez, which offers live jazz music and dinner cruises.

   Riverboat Discovery: Fairbanks, Alaska

   • Riverboat Discovery tours embark from Fairbanks, Alaska, and meander down the Chena River and Tanana River. This authentic steamboat was built in the early 20th century. The tours include a lunchtime meal. Stopping points on the tour include the Chena Indian Village, where tourists can see Native American memorabilia and fur pelts, and the Athabascan Fish Camp, which offers chances to see how the Athabascan Native Americans prepare their fish. The cruises are offered during the warm summer months.

   BB Riverboats: Cincinnati, Ohio

   • The BB Riverboats company in Cincinnati, Ohio, offers day and dinner cruises on the Ohio River. The cruise company has three vessels: the paddle wheel boats, Belle of Cincinnati and River Queen, and the smaller riverboat, Newport Landing. The two paddle wheel boats are used for dinner cruises and sightseeing tours, while Newport Landing's more intimate setting is for receptions and private parties. The riverboats have regular embarkation times during the summer, but cease operations in the winter.

Source: www.ehow.com

Tags: dinner cruises, Chattanooga Tennessee, Southern Belle, Cincinnati Ohio, downtown Chattanooga, Fairbanks Alaska