On April 28, the Belle of Louisville and the Belle of Cincinnati will race for Silver Antlers instead of Golden Antlers as it has been tradition since 1963 when the Belle of Louisville and the Delta Queen first raced on the Ohio River at Louisville, KY.

Part of the Great Steamboat Race between the Belle of Louisville and the Belle of Cincinnati will be a crew competition including a tug of war and an obstacle course before the two boats actually race on the river.

During...

Franz Neumeier

Former Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen crew member Captain Larry "Buford" Wilkinson passed away this morning at a hospital in Vicksburg, MS. He suffered from congestive heart failure, after his condition had been growing worse over the last couple of days.

Born on December 20, 1962, Capt. Wilkinson began work on the Delta Queen more than 20 years ago as a deck hand and worked his way up to serve as Captain. Capt. Wilkinson was one of the most noted and loved former...

Franz Neumeier

I am considering starting an Excursion Riverboat business. I am currently looking for a riverboat to purchase. I had considered trying to build one, but I don't have the knowledge to attempt this on my own. If anyone knows of a boat, preferably at least 100 passenger vessel, please let me know. Thanks

Arron Kerns

The Marietta Register ( The Marietta Register Online - Web Extra: Becky Thatcher Sinks ) reports that the historic, 83 year old paddlewheel showboat Becky Thatcher sank on Sunday near Neville Island. Not much more information is available at this time except that a heavy snow load may have caused the disaster.
According to the newspaper eyewitnesses say they find it unlikely that she may be saved. The online article at the Marietta Register also has some - very sad - pictures from the Becky...

Franz Neumeier

We just got the sad news that long-time Delta Queen and Mississippi Queen entertainer Charles "Chip" Saporiti passed away on December 19 at the age of 52 at his home at Glendora, California. Chip's version of "Ol' Man River" will stick in our memories for ever, together with a memory of a wonderful singer and a great man. Requiescat in pace. See Chip's obituary for more details about Chip Saporiti's life.

Franz Neumeier