Masks are currently optional at Belle of Louisville Riverboats, pending federal litigation.
Whether aboard one of our two passenger vessels– the Belle of Louisville or Mary M. Miller– or visiting the Gift Shop aboard our historic wharf boat, the Mayor Andrew Broaddus, you’ll learn about our two National Historic Landmarks, as well as Louisville and the river that made it.
Belle of Louisville Riverboats provides community access to the river and to Louisville’s history by presenting fun, meaningful and engaging experiences on the water like no one else can. Passengers are encouraged to explore history, the arts and cultural heritage in a way that represents diverse stories and honest experiences. Whether aboard one of our two passenger vessels—the Belle of Louisville or Mary M. Miller—or visiting the Gift Shop aboard our historic wharf boat, the Mayor Andrew Broaddus, you’ll learn about our two National Historic Landmarks, as well as Louisville and the river that made it.
Built
1914, James Reese & Sons Company, Pittsburgh, PA, named Idlewild
Comfort Passenger Capacity
650 – 180 Dining
Specifications
Fully heated and air conditioned • Concession stand and bar • Dance floor • Stage • Full on-board sound system • Indoor and outdoor seating • Non-smoking
Built
1985 by Marine Builders, Inc. Utica, IN. Originally named Missouri River Queen.
Year-Round Passenger Capacity
350
Specifications
Fully heated and air conditioned • Concession stand and bar • Bandstand • On-board sound system • Non-smoking • 95 gross tons • 90’ length • 30’ breadth • 6.1’ depth
Captain Pete OConnell was just 19 years old when he started his job as a seasonal deckhand aboard the Belle of Louisville. Over the years, he continued to learn and grow in his role, rising to the role of Alternate Master Captain, a position in which he best enjoys piloting the vessel and telling great jokes (to the dismay of the crew). With so many years of history at Belle of Louisville Riverboats, Captain Pete OConnell is proud to say that he grew up aboard the Belle, even meeting his wife onboard. In this Crew Spotlight chapter, we interview Captain Pete OConnell to learn more about his unique role.
A year-end letter from our CEO featuring 2022 facts and accomplishments!
Each crew member at Belle of Louisville Riverboats holds a unique role in maintaining these vessels and preserving their legacies for generations to come. In this month’s chapter of the Crew Spotlight Series, we interview the Controller of Belle of Louisville Riverboats, Sabrina Edmonson, to learn more about the important role she holds within Belle of Louisville Riverboats and its 108-year-old legacy.
Masks are currently optional at Belle of Louisville Riverboats, pending federal litigation.
Belle of Louisville Riverboats cruises rain or shine. Cruises will be cancelled if the National Weather Service predicts sustained winds 25 mph or more or gusts of over 30 mph. Additionally, if the U.S. Coast Guard issues a storm/lightning alert, the cruise will be cancelled. Each boat also has covered decks and enclosed areas. If a cruise is cancelled, we will send out an email, phone call, or text to notify guests with tickets.
Yes. The Belle of Louisville has an elevator lift to help with wheelchairs and provide access to the Ballroom Deck, however the Texas and Hurricane decks are not accessible. On the Mary M. Miller, wheelchairs can access the first deck. If you have any specific needs, please let us know upon booking.
Outside food and drink are not allowed on our vessels with the exception of formula/bottles for babies. Food and drinks are available for purchase at our concession stand and bar. You can find the menu for each boat here.
However, we do allow birthday cakes or cupcakes if you are celebrating a special occasion. We kindly request that you notify our Guest Services Team prior to your cruise so we can notify our crew that you will be bringing a cake/cupcakes onboard. Please note that we do not allow knives or open flames (sorry, that means no candles) and we ask that you provide your own decorations, plates, napkins and utensils.
Yes, and we thank all who serve. Discounts are available for active military and veterans. Identification will be required for verification.
Strollers are allowed onboard, but the guest is responsible for carrying the stroller up or down the stairs between decks. The handicap elevator cannot be used for the transportation of strollers between decks.
Thank you for thinking of a Belle of Louisville Riverboats experience for your fundraiser! As a non-profit organization ourselves, we understand the importance of fundraising. Because we receive hundreds of donation requests every year and want to help as many organizations as possible, we require adherence to the following guidelines. Due to overwhelming demand, we can only process donation requests from Jefferson County. If you have any questions, feel free to email us at jessica.banner@louisvilleky.gov.
Belle of Louisville Riverboats does not make any cash donations to any organization.
All letters are reviewed and, if approved, you will be sent a sightseeing pass for two, good on the Belle of Louisville or the Mary M. Miller. Not valid on special events, cannot upgrade to a meal.