# Queen City Riverboats > Queen City Riverboats offers authentic paddlewheel dinner, sightseeing, public, and private charter cruises aboard the Spirit of Cincinnati on the Ohio River near Cincinnati, with catering, bar service, and event capacity for up to 220 guests. > Content index last updated: 2026-08-27T17:37:59.599101+00:00 Industry: Event Venue Website: https://queencityriverboats.com Location: 100 O'Fallon Avenue, Dayton, KY 41074, United States Phone: (859) 292-8687 Operating since: 2003 ## Services - [Bar Service](https://queencityriverboats.com/bar-packages): Open bar packages and cash bar service from a Kentucky ABC licensed bar staffed by the crew. Outside alcohol is not permitted. - [Dinner Cruises](https://queencityriverboats.com/experiences/dinner-cruises): Chef-prepared buffet dinner, full bar, dancing, and Cincinnati skyline views aboard an authentic paddlewheeler. - [Public Cruises](https://queencityriverboats.com/public-cruises): Ticketed dinner, sightseeing, themed, holiday, and fireworks cruises that do not require chartering the boat. - [Reunions and Private Parties](https://queencityriverboats.com/experiences/private-parties): Private celebrations for family reunions, class reunions, anniversaries, and milestone birthdays for up to 220 guests. - [Riverboat Catering](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus): Ten chef-crafted buffet menus for private charters, with appetizers and dietary accommodations. - [Sightseeing Cruises](https://queencityriverboats.com/experiences/sightseeing-cruises): Narrated cruises past the Roebling Suspension Bridge, stadiums, Cincinnati’s skyline, and the Kentucky shoreline. - [Tour Group Cruises](https://queencityriverboats.com/experiences/tour-groups): Motor coach and group excursions for 30 to 220 guests, with meals, narrated sightseeing, and free bus parking. ## Site Pages - [Ohio River Cruises & Private Events](https://queencityriverboats.com/): Queen City Riverboats offers dinner, sightseeing, and private charter cruises aboard the Spirit of Cincinnati on the Ohio River, with catering and event options for up to 220 guests. - [Our Ohio River Story & Event Venue](https://queencityriverboats.com/about): Learn about Queen City Riverboats, its Ohio River charter history since 2003, the Spirit of Cincinnati paddlewheeler, and the event experiences available near Cincinnati. - [Accessibility & Guest Information](https://queencityriverboats.com/accessibility): Accessibility and guest information for visitors planning an experience with Queen City Riverboats in Dayton, Kentucky. - [Riverboat Bar Packages for Events](https://queencityriverboats.com/bar-packages): This page details open bar, cash bar, beverage selections, and alcohol policies for catered events aboard Queen City Riverboats. - [Event Venue Booking in Dayton, KY](https://queencityriverboats.com/book): Request a custom proposal for a Dayton riverboat event, including dinner cruises, private parties, tour groups, sightseeing cruises, and concert cruises. - [Concert Cruises to Riverbend](https://queencityriverboats.com/concert-cruises): This page provides the current status of Queen City Riverboats concert cruises to Riverbend Music Center, explains how the experience works when scheduled, and offers private charter alternatives for concert nights. - [Contact & Directions in Dayton, KY](https://queencityriverboats.com/contact): Find the Dayton, Kentucky dock address, directions, seasonal office hours, parking information, and contact options for Queen City Riverboats. - [Ohio River Charters for Groups](https://queencityriverboats.com/experiences): Compare private dinner, sightseeing, reunion, party, and tour group cruises aboard the Spirit of Cincinnati, then learn how booking, menus, and charter pricing work. - [Dinner Cruises in Cincinnati](https://queencityriverboats.com/experiences/dinner-cruises): Plan a Cincinnati dinner cruise aboard the Spirit of Cincinnati with buffet dining, bar service, dancing, sunset views, and skyline scenery. Cruises depart from Dayton, Kentucky. - [Reunion Riverboat Charters](https://queencityriverboats.com/experiences/private-parties): Queen City Riverboats offers private Spirit of Cincinnati charters for reunions, anniversaries, retirement parties and other celebrations, with dining for 132, receptions for 220, catering, bar service and Cincinnati skyline views. - [Sightseeing Cruises in Cincinnati](https://queencityriverboats.com/experiences/sightseeing-cruises): Queen City Riverboats offers approximately two-hour sightseeing cruises aboard an authentic paddlewheeler, with narrated views of Cincinnati’s skyline, stadiums, Roebling Bridge, and riverbanks. - [Tour Group Cruises on the Ohio River](https://queencityriverboats.com/experiences/tour-groups): Queen City Riverboats helps tour operators and organized groups plan Ohio River cruises for 30 to 250 guests, with motor coach parking, meals, sightseeing, themed events, and accessible boarding. - [Riverboat Charter FAQ for Cincinnati](https://queencityriverboats.com/faq): Get practical answers about Queen City Riverboats pricing, reservations, catering, parking, accessibility, weather policies, and private cruises departing from Dayton, Kentucky. - [Spirit of Cincinnati Paddlewheel](https://queencityriverboats.com/fleet/spirit-of-cincinnati): Explore the Spirit of Cincinnati, an authentic paddlewheel riverboat for up to 220 guests, with dinner service, skyline views, private charters, and public cruises on the Ohio River. - [Gameday River Shuttles in Dayton, KY](https://queencityriverboats.com/gameday-shuttles): This page provides the current status of Queen City Riverboats’ public Bengals and Reds gameday shuttle service, explains how the service operates when available, and offers alerts for its return plus private charter alternatives. - [Queen City Riverboat History](https://queencityriverboats.com/history): Learn how the Ohio River, Cincinnati’s steamboat era, the Roebling Bridge, and Tall Stacks shaped local riverboat culture before exploring the Spirit of Cincinnati’s sightseeing and dinner cruises. - [Riverboat Catering Menus in Dayton](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus): Browse buffet menus, appetizers, and bar packages for dinner cruises and private events aboard the Spirit of Cincinnati and Destiny Yacht. - [All-American Picnic Buffet](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus/all-american-picnic): Review the All-American Picnic menu option from Queen City Riverboats while planning an event. Contact the venue for pricing, customization, and dietary accommodation details. - [Captain's Feast Buffet Menu](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus/captains-feast): This page presents Queen City Riverboats' Captain's Feast menu, including prime rib, panko-crusted chicken, customizable courses, premium substitutions, dessert choices, bar packages, and booking information. - [Fiesta Fajita Bar for Events](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus/fiesta-fajita-bar): Explore the Fiesta Fajita Bar menu option from Queen City Riverboats for an upcoming event. Contact the venue for pricing, customization, and dietary accommodation details. - [Hickory Smoked BBQ Buffet](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus/hickory-smoked-bbq): Review the Hickory Smoked BBQ Buffet for a Queen City Riverboats event, including entrée choices, sides, desserts, substitutions, and optional bar service. - [Italian Buffet Dinner Cruise Menu](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus/italian-buffet): Review the Italian Buffet menu for riverboat events, including entrée choices, sides, dessert, substitutions, and optional bar service. - [Cincinnati Kentucky Buffet Menu](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus/kentucky-buffet): This page details Queen City Riverboats' Kentucky Buffet, including entree choices, traditional sides, cheesecake, customization options, bar service, dietary accommodations, and menu booking information. - [Mate's Wrap Buffet Cruise Menu](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus/mates-wrap-buffet): Review the Mate's Wrap Buffet menu from Queen City Riverboats before planning a riverboat dining experience in Dayton, Kentucky. - [Pork Loin Dinner Catering Menu](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus/pork-loin-dinner): Review the Pork Loin Dinner menu, entrée and dessert options, bar service, and quote process for catered Queen City Riverboats events. - [Southern Buffet Catering Menu](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus/southern-buffet): Review Queen City Riverboats' Southern Buffet menu, including fried chicken, burgundy beef tips, classic sides, desserts, substitutions, and optional bar service. - [Steamship Feast Buffet Menu](https://queencityriverboats.com/menus/steamship-feast): Review the Steamship Feast buffet menu, customization options, bar service, and quote process for catered events aboard Queen City Riverboats. - [Public Cruises on the Ohio River](https://queencityriverboats.com/public-cruises): Browse scheduled public cruises from Queen City Riverboats, including dinner, sightseeing, themed, holiday, and fireworks sailings on the Ohio River. The page includes upcoming events, ticket details, inclusions, boarding information, parking, and frequently asked questions. - [Guest Reviews of Ohio River Cruises](https://queencityriverboats.com/reviews): Read guest feedback about Queen City Riverboats, including reviews of dinner cruises, fireworks outings, Riverbend shuttles, private events, food, entertainment and crew service. - [Riverboat Tours in Dayton, KY](https://queencityriverboats.com/tour): Schedule an in-person tour of the Spirit of Cincinnati in Dayton, Kentucky. Visitors can see the boat, discuss event plans, and choose an available appointment time. ## Frequently Asked Questions - **How much does a riverboat charter cost in Cincinnati?** Private catered charters include the vessel rental, captain and crew, and a full buffet dinner. Bar packages are available as an add-on. Pricing varies by vessel, guest count, day of the week, and season. Contact Queen City Riverboats for a custom quote. - **Do you run gameday shuttles to Bengals and Reds games?** Gameday shuttles are paused for now, but they will return soon. Join the waitlist on the gameday shuttles page to be notified when rides to the stadiums are available again. - **How much are concert cruises?** Concert cruises to Riverbend Music Center are paused for now. When they run, tickets start at $25 per person and include round-trip river transportation. Join the update list on the concert cruises page for announcements. - **How much are fireworks cruises?** Fireworks cruise tickets range from $65 to $120 per person depending on the vessel and whether catering is included. Independence Day and WEBN Riverfest fireworks cruises are among the most popular events. - **How far in advance should I book a charter?** Book 6 to 12 months in advance for large events, especially during peak season from May through October. Smaller gatherings can often be accommodated with 2 to 3 months’ notice. Popular dates, including fireworks cruises, sell out quickly. - **What is the deposit and cancellation policy?** A non-refundable deposit is required to secure a date. The remaining balance is due 30 days before the event. Cancellations made more than 90 days before the event may receive partial credit toward a future booking. Contact Queen City Riverboats for full details. - **What happens if there is bad weather?** Cruises operate rain or shine. The Spirit of Cincinnati’s main deck is fully enclosed and climate controlled. In severe weather, including thunderstorms, high winds, or a Coast Guard river closure, Queen City Riverboats will work with guests to reschedule at no additional charge. - **Do you allow outside catering or BYOB?** Outside alcohol is never permitted. Drinks must come from the Kentucky ABC licensed bar, with bar packages available. Guests may choose a Queen City Riverboats catering menu or bring their own caterer or food spread for an additional outside-food fee. - **Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?** Yes. Queen City Riverboats can accommodate most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and common allergies. Share requirements when booking so the catering team can plan appropriately. - **What catering menus do you offer?** Buffet options include the Ultimate Feast, Captain's Feast, Steamship Feast, Italian Buffet, Pork Loin Dinner, Cincy Stars Buffet, Southern Buffet, Kentucky Buffet, Fiesta Fajita Bar, and casual fare options. Availability varies by vessel. Contact Queen City Riverboats for pricing and custom menu options. - **Where do you depart from?** All cruises depart from 100 O'Fallon Avenue in Dayton, Kentucky, just across the river from downtown Cincinnati. Take KY-8 to O'Fallon Avenue. - **Is there parking available?** Yes. Queen City Riverboats has a large free parking lot with 152 spaces. The lot is handicap accessible and can accommodate buses and motor coaches. - **Is the Spirit of Cincinnati wheelchair accessible?** Yes. The Spirit of Cincinnati is wheelchair accessible on the main deck level. Contact Queen City Riverboats in advance to arrange the best possible accommodations. - **How long are the cruises?** Private charters typically last 2 to 3 hours. Concert and fireworks cruises vary, so check the specific event for timing. - **Can you have a wedding on a boat in Cincinnati?** Yes. Weddings are hosted by sister brand Destiny Yacht Charters aboard the Destiny Yacht from the same Dayton, Kentucky dock. The Spirit of Cincinnati focuses on dinner cruises, sightseeing, and group celebrations. - **What is included in a private charter?** Every private charter includes the vessel rental, professional captain and crew, a 2- to 3-hour Ohio River cruise, use of the sound system, dance floor, and common areas. Catering and bar packages are available as add-ons. - **Can I bring a DJ or live band?** Yes. The Spirit of Cincinnati has a professional sound system with DJ hookups. Guests may bring their own DJ, band, or entertainer. Queen City Riverboats can also recommend local entertainment providers. - **Do you offer corporate team building activities?** Corporate events and team-building cruises are hosted by sister brand Destiny Yacht Charters aboard the Destiny Yacht from the same dock. For large company outings, picnics, and holiday parties of 150 or more, contact Queen City Riverboats about the Spirit of Cincinnati. - **How much does a dinner cruise cost in Cincinnati?** Public dinner cruises are ticketed per person and announced each season. Private dinner charters are quoted by group size, menu, and bar package and include the vessel, captain, and crew. Call (859) 292-8687 for pricing for a specific date. - **When is riverboat season in Cincinnati?** Queen City Riverboats cruises from April through October. May through October is peak season, and popular dates such as fireworks cruises and fall Saturday evenings sell out early. The office is open Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., year-round for planning the next season. ## Contact - [Contact Queen City Riverboats](https://queencityriverboats.com/contact): Call (859) 292-8687 or visit 100 O'Fallon Avenue, Dayton, KY 41074. Free parking includes 152 spaces and accommodates buses and motor coaches. - [Request a Quote](https://queencityriverboats.com/book): Submit event details to receive a custom proposal with vessel, menu, and booking options. ## Optional - [Fleet Page Not Found](https://queencityriverboats.com/fleet): The fleet page is currently unavailable. Explore active cruise and private event pages for boat and experience details. - [Privacy Policy and SMS Terms](https://queencityriverboats.com/privacy-policy): Review how Queen City Riverboats collects and uses information, handles SMS communications, protects consent, and supports privacy choices. - [Terms, Bookings & SMS Policies](https://queencityriverboats.com/terms): Read the terms for website use, SMS communications, quote requests, and charter reservations.