The Great Steamboat Race is Wednesday, April 30 beginning at 4:30pm. As part of the wonderful Kentucky Derby Festival events that are happening from now until Saturday, May 3 when Derby commences, I encourage you to attend this race. Be part of history either as a traveler on board the iconic Belle of Louisville or as a spectator along the wharf and waterfront in downtown Louisville. This event is an important part of the Kentucky Derby Festival and all of the festivities leading up to our proud, Kentucky day. The Belle of Louisville has been racing in the Great Steamboat race since 1963 when she began racing during the historical times with the Delta Queen. The Belle of Louisville has also raced the Julia Belle Swain, The Natchez, and the Spirit of Jefferson. During this modern era of the contest, she now races the Belle of Cincinnati. Read more about the history of the Belle of Louisville.
You can board the Belle of Louisville and ride during the race; tickets are $130.00 which includes food, drinks, and entertainment. Click here for ticket information. Tickets to ride on the challenger, Belle of Cincinnati, cost $60.00 for a cruise only. Four Roses Bourbon will provide an outstanding bourbon tasting aboard the Belle of Cincinnati during the race; those tickets cost $80.00 and includes food, cruise, and the bourbon tasting. Click here for those tickets. Boarding begins at 4:30pm. The steamboats depart at 5:30pm with the race along the Ohio River beginning at 6pm.
For even more information about the Belle of Louisville’s Big 100…you didn’t know that she turns 100 years old later this year? Read about the Centennial Festival of Riverboats that takes place this fall 2014, and the future of the Belle of Louisville to learn more!
Photos courtesy of Belle of Louisville, Facebook
