There’s a certain magic that settles over the Ohio River as the holidays approach. The crisp air seems to carry the scent of pine and cinnamon, and the familiar city skylines of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky begin to twinkle with festive lights. We've seen it year after year from the decks of our riverboats, a special kind of warmth that has nothing to do with the temperature. It’s the feeling of togetherness, of creating memories that will be shared for years to come. This is the heart of our seasonal sailings.

We often hear from guests that they’re looking for a unique way to celebrate the season, something beyond the usual parties and gatherings. A riverboat cruise offers just that—a chance to step away from the holiday hustle and see the world from a different perspective. Imagine gliding along the water, a warm drink in hand, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the holidays. It’s an experience that combines festive cheer with the timeless beauty of the river, creating a tradition that families return to, year after year. Our holiday cruises on the Ohio River are designed to capture this very spirit.

A Feast for the Senses

We believe that a holiday celebration isn't complete without a delicious meal, and our culinary team takes great pride in crafting menus that are both traditional and delightful. You can expect a buffet laden with holiday favorites—think tender carved turkey, savory ham, creamy mashed potatoes, and all the classic trimmings. Menus will vary depending on the dining cruises for Thanksgiving, holiday brunch, Christmas, and New Year's. And of course, no holiday meal is complete without a decadent dessert to finish things off. The aroma of a home-cooked holiday feast fills the dining decks, making you feel right at home, even while you’re cruising down the river.

Unforgettable Festive Entertainment

While the scenery and food are central to the experience, it’s the special moments of entertainment and shared joy that truly make our holiday cruises memorable. Enjoy a live DJ on our holiday dinner cruises, a banjo player on our holiday lunch cruises, and a performance from a Dixieland Jazz Band on our holiday brunch cruises. 

These cruises are designed for connection. We see friends catching up over a festive cocktail at the bar, couples enjoying a quiet moment on the outer deck, and multiple generations of a family gathered around a table, sharing stories and laughter. It’s about creating a space where you can relax and truly be present with your loved ones. We take care of all the details—the cooking, the cleaning, the entertainment—so you can focus on what matters most: making wonderful holiday memories together.

A New Perspective on Holiday Lights

There is something truly special about seeing the region’s holiday lights from the water. As dusk settles over the Ohio River, the cities of Cincinnati and Newport come alive with a dazzling display. The familiar bridges, stadiums, and buildings are outlined in festive colors, their reflections dancing on the river’s surface. From the deck of our riverboat, you get a panoramic view that you simply can’t find anywhere else. It’s a peaceful, yet spectacular, way to appreciate the beauty of the season.

This unique vantage point offers a fresh perspective on the holiday traditions you already know and love. Instead of being stuck in traffic to see a light display, you’re floating peacefully by, taking it all in without the stress. It’s a chance to slow down and soak in the festive ambiance of our river cities. Many of our guests tell us this has become their favorite new tradition—a calming and beautiful escape that perfectly captures the magic of the holiday season.

There is something truly special about seeing the region’s holiday lights from the water. As dusk settles over the Ohio River, the cities of Cincinnati and Newport come alive with a dazzling display. The familiar bridges, stadiums, and buildings are outlined in festive colors, their reflections dancing on the river’s surface. From the deck of our riverboat, you get a panoramic view that you simply can’t find anywhere else. It’s a peaceful, yet spectacular, way to appreciate the beauty of the season.