April 26th - April 30th, 2026
River Hop
Louisville, KY
Join us on an exclusive adventure as we participate in “The Great Steamboat Race,” a 50+ year tradition of bourbon tasting and thrilling boat racing leading up to the iconic Kentucky Derby. This 5-day, journey is a one-of-a-kind experience that transports you back in time. Cruise from Cincinnati to Louisville aboard the BB Riverboats' magnificent, authentic paddle wheeler, the Belle of Cincinnati. Adorned in elegant Victorian style, this vessel offers the perfect backdrop to bask in the spring sunshine and savor the scenic beauty of the river. Indulge in delicious meals, enriching lecture series, captivating entertainment, and top-notch service as you explore quaint river towns along the way. Don’t miss out on this exceptional opportunity to be a part of a historic and exhilarating tradition.
Book Now Or Call 330-556-4535Tour Inclusions:
Deluxe Motorcoach Transportation
Gratuities included for tour director, guides, & driver
11 meals included
Activity Level
Physical activity rating based on 1 of 5 levels.
Activity Level 3 (Out of 5)
Moderate
For active travelers with good mobility and balance.
Walkers, rollators, wheelchairs, or canes are not recommended.
- Walking distance: 1.5 to 3 miles per day.
- Pace: Moderate with limited rest opportunities.
- Terrain: Uneven surfaces may include cobblestones, light hills, or stairs without handrails.
- Elevation: Includes stairs, occasional steep areas, or boarding transportation without ramps.
- Suitable for: Travelers who are independently mobile and can comfortably walk and stand for extended periods.
- Typical activities: Walking tours in historic districts, visits to outdoor markets, scenic paths with inclines.
Attractions
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- Two days onboard “Belle of Cincinnati” from Cincinnati to Louisville.
- Dinner & Bourbon Tasting on board during the race.
- Churchill Downs Tour
- Kentucky Derby Museum
- Onboard Entertainment & Tour Director
- Lecture Series
- Lunch at the Golden Lamb
- Howard Steamboat Museum
- Derby Dinner Playhouse
- Frazier History Museum
- Louisville Slugger Museum
- Four nights lodging including Belterra Resort & Spa.
- Eleven Meals
Pricing:
$2,595 Per Person Double
$2,995 Per Person Single
Your Itinerary
Day One
Lunch will be included along the way at the famous Golden Lamb in Lebanon, Ohio. Tonight, we will stay by the river at the Fairfield Inn & Suites in Newport, KY (directly across from downtown Cincinnati with great river views!) (Lunch)
Day Two
We begin our journey on the beautiful Belle of Cincinnati, a lovely authentic paddle wheeler. Featuring Victorian décor, the Belle has two enclosed decks and an open-air top deck perfect for sightseeing or a visit to the Pilot House. Highlights of our first day include food, fun, crafts, song and historic lectures, before traveling through the Markland Lock and Dam – an up-close look at how our inland waterways operate. After dinner, we dock for the night in Vevay, IN and stay at the lavish Belterra Resort and Spa. Head off to bed or the casino (good luck!) (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day Three Tuesday April 29th – Day on the River to Louisville, KY
More food and fun await as we cruise into the beautiful Waterfront Park in downtown Louisville, KY. We’ll check into the Hampton Inn before heading out for a dinner show at the famed Derby Dinner Playhouse. (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day Four Wednesday April 30th – Day and Night in Louisville, KY
We will begin the day with a visit to two of Louisville’s major attractions with a delicious lunch along the way. The much anticipated, grand finale awaits back aboard the Belle of Cincinnati as we race the legendary Belle of Louisville, complete with bourbon tasting, a delicious meal, and the “riverboat shenanigans” you can handle as you help cheer us to the finish line! There is only one rule in riverboat racing: “There are no rules!” Second night stay at Hampton Inn in Louisville. (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day Five Thursday May 1st – Depart for Home.
Before heading home, we will visit the Howard Steamboat Museum and Mansion which is dedicated to the preservation, and showcasing the history of the Howard family, their mansion and shipyards. This beautiful home was built in the 1890s by premier steamboat builders, the Howards of Jeffersonville and the whole house is full of handmade woodwork and carvings and will surely amaze you. (Breakfast)
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