Cincinnati: Riverboat Cruise with Lunch and Entertainment

Imagine cruising along the Ohio River on a vintage boat, surrounded by scenic views of Kentucky and Ohio, with a delicious meal and live music setting the perfect scene. That’s exactly what you get with the Cincinnati Riverboat Cruise with Lunch and Entertainment, a popular experience offered by BB Riverboats. With a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on over 570 reviews, this cruise manages to pack in a lot of value in just a couple of hours.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the relaxing atmosphere of a scenic river cruise, offering panoramic views of the Ohio River that are simply perfect for picture-taking. Second, the well-executed 3-course buffet lunch—a true highlight, especially with the variety of dishes like chicken Marsala, bourbon-glazed pork, and vegetarian options. Third, the live entertainment, often with talented musicians like Banjo Bob, adding a cheerful, authentic touch to the whole experience.

Of course, there’s a small caveat. The experience may appeal most to those who enjoy leisurely activities and good food, but if you’re after a more active or historical tour, you might feel this cruise is a touch light on the educational content. Still, for a laid-back afternoon with friends or family, this cruise hits the mark.

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, enjoyable outing that combines scenic beauty, tasty food, and live music. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just need a break from sightseeing, this cruise offers an authentic taste of Cincinnati’s river life.

This experience made our article of Top 7 Cruises And Boat Tours In Cincinnati.

Key Points

• Scenic Ohio River views provide a memorable backdrop for lunch and entertainment.
• Delicious 3-course buffet with options catering to different dietary preferences.
• Live music and entertainment enhance the relaxing river cruise vibe.
• Affordable pricing at $57 per person, offering good value considering the food and entertainment.
• Accessible and flexible — wheelchair-friendly and free cancellation available.
• Ideal for leisurely afternoons that mix sightseeing with good food and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Cincinnati Riverboat Experience

The Setting and Departure Point

The cruise departs from Newport Landing Dock at 101 Riverboat Row, just beside the Newport Aquarium. This spot is easy to find, with free parking available on a first-come, first-served basis, plus nearby paid parking options. The dock’s location offers a charming start to your river adventure, with the boat waiting to whisk you away into a different world of gentle river currents and scenic riverbanks.

The Vintage Riverboat Experience

Once aboard, you’ll immediately notice the vintage charm of the riverboat. The vessel has a classic look, blending nostalgia with comfort, and the reserved seating ensures you won’t be jostling for a spot. While the boat isn’t enormous, it’s spacious enough to allow everyone a good view of the river—whether you sit inside the climate-controlled dining room or on the upper deck.

The Scenic Cruise

The cruise lasts around 2 hours, a perfect length to unwind without feeling rushed. As the boat glides along the Ohio River, you’ll get stunning views of the Ohio and Kentucky shores. Multiple reviewers have raved about the beautiful vistas and the knowledgeable narration, which offers insights into the nearby sights and local history. For example, Banjo Bob, the local musician, didn’t just entertain with tunes but also shared stories about the area, making the journey both musical and educational.

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The Lunch Buffet

One of the biggest draws is the 3-course buffet, available from boarding until about 30 minutes after departure. The menu changes seasonally, with options like garden fresh salad, Chicken Marsala, KY bourbon-glazed pork, and vegetarian dishes. The food gets high marks for quality and variety; reviewers frequently mention that the buffet is delicious and plentiful.

Some specifics from reviews include praise for the shrimp (noted as especially good), and others mention the fresh baked cookies and brownies as a delightful ending. The buffet is served at your table, allowing you to relax and enjoy your meal while taking in the river scenery through the large windows.

Entertainment Onboard

The cruise features live music, with Banjo Bob often providing a cheerful soundtrack of traditional river songs. Guests enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to sing along or just sit back and listen. One reviewer pointed out how Banjo Bob’s friendly personality and musical mastery added a special touch, making the experience feel more authentic and memorable.

Overall Atmosphere and Ambience

The boat exudes a comforting, nostalgic vibe, enhanced by the friendly staff and the mellow tunes. The upper deck offers plenty of seating to enjoy the fresh air and river views, especially on nice days. Many reviews mention how relaxing and peaceful the cruise feels, making it a perfect escape from busy city life.

Practicalities and Tips

• Pricing is quite reasonable at $57 per person, especially considering the included buffet, entertainment, and scenic views. Reviewers agree that this is excellent value for money.
• Seating is reserved, which means you can request to sit together if you’re traveling as a group — just make sure everyone is under the same reservation.
• Wheelchair accessibility is noted, making this experience inclusive for guests with mobility needs.
• Timing: Check availability for start times, but most cruises last about 2 hours, fitting comfortably into an afternoon schedule.
• Food: Breakfast options are not available; lunch is the main meal. Be aware that lunch begins at boarding and runs until shortly after departure—arrive early to enjoy the full selection.
• Extras: Be aware that alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are not included but are available for purchase onboard.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff—notably, the host and guide shared interesting facts about the river and its surroundings, making the trip both fun and informative. One reviewer mentioned that Banjo Bob’s music and storytelling created a warm, welcoming atmosphere, which really enhanced the experience.

Food quality receives a lot of positive feedback, with many saying that the buffet exceeded expectations. However, a few offered constructive criticisms—such as one noting that cheese tortellini was a bit mushy—so there’s a tacit understanding that while the food is generally good, it might not be gourmet.

The cost-to-value ratio is generally viewed as excellent, especially considering the entertainment and location. Several reviews mention how relaxing and “just plain enjoyable” this cruise is, making it more than just a meal on a boat—it becomes a memorable outing.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for those looking to sit back and unwind, enjoy scenic views, and indulge in good food with live music. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends wanting a low-key but charming activity. It also suits visitors wanting to add a taste of Cincinnati’s river culture to their trip without committing to a lengthy or complex tour.

The Sum Up

The Cincinnati Riverboat Cruise with Lunch and Entertainment offers a delightful mix of beautiful river vistas, tasty food, and live music—all at a very reasonable price. Its relaxed pace and friendly atmosphere make it an excellent choice for those craving a peaceful, scenic experience that feels both authentic and fun.

If you enjoy laid-back outings with good grub and engaging entertainment, this cruise will likely become a highlight of your Cincinnati visit. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer comfort and atmosphere over high-energy sightseeing or deep historical dives.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a fast-paced or highly educational tour, the combination of stunning views, friendly guides, and a delicious buffet makes this cruise a worthy addition to any Ohio River itinerary.

FAQs

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for about 2 hours, making it a manageable and relaxing activity for an afternoon.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Newport Landing Dock at 101 Riverboat Row, next to the Newport Aquarium, with free parking nearby.

Is the lunch buffet included in the price?
Yes, a 3-course buffet lunch is included, served from boarding until 30 minutes after the cruise departs.

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, the buffet includes vegetarian dishes, including chef’s daily vegetarian offerings and salads.

Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Is alcohol available onboard?
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are not included but can be purchased during the cruise.

This Cincinnati riverboat experience combines scenic beauty, good food, and lively music, making it a relaxing and authentic way to enjoy the Ohio River. Perfect for those who want to indulge in a charming, low-stress activity that leaves them with lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here: