The Great Steamboat Race is held each year on the Wednesday before the Kentucky Derby. The Belle of Louisville and the New Orleans' Delta Queen battle it out up and down a 14 mile stretch of the Ohio River. The race begins at the Clark Memorial Bridge toward Six Mile Island.
Instructions
1. Line the Ohio River on either the Kentucky or Indiana shores. Plant yourself, your picnic baskets, and friends between the Clark Memorial Bridge and Six Mile Island. Plan to sit or stand for long periods of time. Show up early and save your spot with blankets and chairs.
2. Pick a spot around the old Water Tower in Louisville.
3. Plant yourself along Utica Pike in Jeffersonville. Try for a spot near Duffy's Landing. Many say this is a great location to see the Louisville Steamboat Race.
4. Ride the Belle of Louisville. Book far in advanced through the steamboat's website or by calling 574-2992 or 866-832-0011. Tickets for the race and a meal are $126 per person. Boarding begins at 3 p.m. and lasts until 7:00 p.m.
5. Ride New Orleans' Delta Queen. Contact Majestic America Line for more information on the sailing adventures available upon the Delta Queen. There are several packages to choose from including overnight cruises along the Ohio River through several states. Go to Majestic America Line's website or call the Seattle corporate office at (800) 434-1232.
Tags: Delta Queen, Ohio River, Steamboat Race, America Line, Belle Louisville, Clark Memorial