Welcome to BB!

Kings and queens of the river since 1979

Built from a love of the mighty Ohio!

Humble beginnings.

Inspired by the Queen City's deep and enduring bond with the Mighty Ohio River, Ben Bernstein, along with close friend and industry pioneer Betty Blake, set out to transform the way we see the river and the city with a new opportunity to experience the sumptuous class that evokes the romance of the riverboat era. They envisioned a journey that would make memories and magic with cruises steeped in style and comfort, with the addition of ever-changing views along the river.

The experience would be enhanced by dining and music on the smooth passage of a classic riverboat from a bygone era. Since then, BB Riverboats has become an iconic experience in the city—a cherished tradition that Ben and Betty would be proud to see thriving today. When you cruise like this once, you'll be back with company because a journey like this is always worth sharing. Plus, everything is better on a boat.

Cruising into the future.

BB Riverboats was awarded exclusive rights to riverboat cruises at the 1982 World's Fair in Knoxville, TN. This distinction was the company's first big break; a signal that great success was on the horizon and beyond. BB Riverboats has been a critical component in all of the "Tall Stacks" festivals, which occurred here in the Cincinnati area in 1988, 1992, 1995, 1999, 2003, 2006, and back again as the "River Roots Festival" in 2025.

In addition, local groups, media outlets, and government agencies often call on them to solve problems, answer questions, or offer advice for events or issues on the Ohio River. Rulers of the River then and now. Alan Bernstein, his wife Mary, and their two children, Terri and Ben Bernstein, sit at the helm of BB Riverboats. With their well-seasoned management team, they are the steadfast crew propelling BB Riverboats into the future.

For us, the river is always calling.

The Port of Cincinnati

Shortly after the grand opening of BB Riverboats, it was clear that the business would be a long-lasting Queen City icon. Following the first cruising season at the Mike Fink, a new home was purchased for BB Riverboats just below the John Roebling Suspension Bridge. BB Riverboats operated in this location for about ten years before becoming part of Covington's riverfront entertainment complex, "Covington Landing," where it lived until 2005. In 2005, BB moved to it's forever home Newport, KY where it operates today on the now infamous Riverboat Row. We encourage you to pop in for a visit!

Our Fleet | Our Pride

Belle of Cincinnati

Our flagship riverboat is the Belle of the Ball, and it's the best of them all. Cruise in comfort, surrounded by intricate Victorian detail, aboard our most remarkable vessel. You'll dine in lavish turn-of-the-20th-century style, but not to worry. Our three climate-controlled decks provide an environment that ensures optimum comfort for every passenger, no matter the weather. The Belle's open-air top deck allows for unobscured and outstanding views of Northern Kentucky and the Cincinnati skyline for top-tier sightseeing that's a cut above any other view

River Queen

Tastefully decorated and impeccably preserved, the River Queen exudes romantic riverboat-era charm. Both climate-controlled decks include a spacious dining room and a full bar with a dance floor located on the first deck. For those guests who prefer the fresh air, visit the covered third deck which offers a great view of the city as well as a bar and gift shop in the summer months. While dining during wedding events, family gatherings, small private parties and corporate charters, guests can enjoy the beautiful, scenic views the Ohio River has to offer.

River's Edge

BB Riverboats is proud to introduce River's Edge, a state-of-the-art event center that allows you and up to 225 guests to experience the romance of the river without ever setting sail. Located in our brand new Newport Landing dock facility, River's Edge is Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky’s only private event space located on the Ohio River. Designed to host and cater your next wedding, rehearsal dinner, family reunion, corporate meeting or sorority/fraternity party, we are now taking reservations.

Our Family | Our Team

Alan Bernstein

Alan began his career in the river industry by skipping his High School graduation in order to accept a deckhand position aboard the Delta Queen in 1970. Alan holds a 1600-ton Master’s license for the Western Rivers, a 100-ton Inland Master’s license, and an unlimited Master of Towing. Alan continues to be active in the river industry and operates his business alongside his two children.

Alan has served in numerous leadership positions with various associations and companies. He was elected to the Board of Directors of the Passenger Vessel Association (PVA) in 1982. He served as association president in 1988 and is active on the convention site selection committee, planning and orchestrating various meetings and conferences. Alan served on the Northern Kentucky Convention and Visitor’s Bureau Executive Board for 20+ years. Alan received the National Rivers Hall of Fame Achievement Award, recognizing his significant impact on America's rivers.

Ben Bernstein

Ben is a 2000 graduate of Dixie Heights High School in Edgewood, KY, and a 2004 graduate of the University of Kentucky. He is part of the 3rd generation of BB Riverboats in the Port of Cincinnati and has worked in the family business since 1993. Along with his sister, Terri, they now own and operate the company alongside their father, Alan. Ben holds a 1600-ton Inland Master's license and a 200-ton Master of Towing license for the Western Rivers.

He currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Passenger Vessel Association and is a past chairman of PVA's Safety and Security Committee. He is the father of one child, Elim, and is engaged to be married to his fiancé' Erica Gamble, in July of 2025.

Terri Bernstein

Terri is a 1994 graduate of Dixie Heights High School in Edgewood, KY. She received a Bachelor's Degree in Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management from Western Kentucky University in 2000 and a Bachelor's in Paralegal Studies from Purdue University in 2021. She is part of the 3rd generation of BB Riverboats and has been working in the family business since she was a little girl who went to work with her grandparents.

Terri is a Past President of the Passenger Vessel Association and is a current member of the Regulatory and Membership Committees. She sits on the Board of Directors and is the Treasurer of the Haunted Attraction Association. She also is a Board Member of the Northern Kentucky Convention and Visitors Bureau. Terri holds a 100 Master's License for the Western Rivers and is the mother of 1, Emma Rose, and has two stepsons with her significant other of 15 years, Bill Crouse.