Cincinnati: Ohio River Cruise with Buffet Dinner

Thinking about a way to see Cincinnati from a different angle? If you’re after a relaxed, scenic evening that combines good food with beautiful views, this Ohio River cruise might just be what you’re looking for. Offered by BB Riverboats, it’s a popular choice among visitors who want to enjoy the city’s skyline and river ambiance, all while indulging in a hearty buffet.

One of the things I love about this experience is how it offers a casual yet charming setting—no dress code required, so you can go in your favorite comfortable clothes. Plus, the chance to unwind on the water with friends or loved ones, combined with live entertainment, makes for an enjoyable evening.

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind. The buffet is included, but soft drinks and alcohol are extra, which can add to your overall cost if you plan to toast or enjoy a cocktail. Still, for the value, most reviews suggest this cruise offers a lovely way to spend a couple of hours.

If you appreciate scenic sightseeing, tasty food, and a laid-back atmosphere, this cruise is probably a good fit for you. It’s especially suited for couples, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a relaxing activity that showcases Cincinnati’s riverfront and skyline.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: You’ll get stunning, unobstructed vistas of Cincinnati’s city skyline and the Ohio River.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: No dress code, casual or formal, making it flexible for different preferences.
• Inclusive Experience: Buffet dinner, indoor reserved seating, and a cash bar on board.
• Entertainment: Live music or DJ entertainment adds a lively touch to the evening.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, with options for all guests to enjoy comfortably.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before your cruise.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Ohio River Cruise

This cruise is designed to be a straightforward, enjoyable experience that combines sightseeing with dining. It departs from Newport Landing Dock at 101 Riverboat Row, conveniently located near the Newport Aquarium. The area offers free parking on a first-come, first-serve basis, with additional paid options nearby.

Once on board, you’ll be greeted and shown to reserved indoor seating, ensuring you have a comfortable spot to relax and enjoy the views. Dinner is available right at boarding—so you won’t have to wait until the cruise starts. The buffet includes a variety of options, and you can enjoy coffee, tea, iced tea, and water included in the fare. Soft drinks and alcohol are available for purchase, giving you the chance to toast your evening or enjoy a drink with your meal.

The cruise lasts roughly two hours, usually in the evening, allowing you to see Cincinnati’s illuminated skyline. The boat itself is well-maintained, with some reviews mentioning that the paddle wheel is fixed and non-functional, but that doesn’t detract from the overall ambiance or the authentic look of the vessel.

There’s a lively yet relaxed vibe onboard. Some cruises feature a DJ or live music, which guests seem to really enjoy—many reviewers have praised the entertainment, describing it as a fun addition to the dinner. The general consensus is that the crew is friendly and attentive, making for a smooth, hassle-free experience.

The Food: Buffet Highlights and Considerations

One of the main reasons people choose this cruise is the buffet dinner. From reviews, it seems the food is consistently good, with many guests commenting on the tasty, reasonably priced options. The buffet usually includes a variety of meats, vegetables, and sides—some reviews specifically mention seasoned salmon, cheesy potatoes, and short ribs.

However, a few reviews pointed out minor issues—such as the beef ribs being tough and fatty, or wanting more dessert choices. Overall, most find the buffet a satisfying aspect of the cruise, especially considering the price of around $71 per person. For many, this represents good value—combining scenic views with a hearty meal in a relaxed environment.

Some reviews mentioned that the food was hot and seasoned well, with one guest noting that the variety made for a tasty experience. Another added that the staff was attentive and helpful in ensuring everyone had enough to eat.

If you’re a foodie or have specific dietary needs, it might be worth noting that the menu can change last-minute, and options for children or picky eaters might be limited—though overall, the food generally receives positive remarks.

Views and Atmosphere

The main draw of this cruise is the stunning scenery. Guests love watching the river drift past as Cincinnati’s skyline lights up at night. Many reviews highlight the picturesque views of Cincinnati and Kentucky, especially when the city is aglow, creating a romantic and captivating backdrop.

One guest described it as a “relaxing cruise along the picturesque Ohio River with Cincinnati night lights,” emphasizing how peaceful and beautiful the experience is. For photography enthusiasts, the opportunity to snap photos of the skyline or capture the sunset makes this a worthwhile outing.

The atmosphere on the boat is generally friendly and laid-back. Some reviews mention dancing and music, with guests enjoying the entertainment provided, whether a DJ or a live band. The absence of a strict dress code allows for casual comfort, making it easy to unwind and focus on the scenery and company.

Entertainment and Extras

Most cruises feature a form of music, often a DJ or live band, which guests find adds to the ambiance. DJ Darrell, for example, received praise for his great music, with many guests dancing and enjoying themselves well into the night.

The onboard experience is designed to be fun but relaxed—no rushing, just enjoying the views, food, and music. Some reviews mentioned that the crew was friendly and engaged, making the cruise feel personalized.

There’s also a gift shop onboard, and souvenirs like drink cups are available. While soft drinks and alcohol are extra, a cash bar means you can toast your evening with a drink of your choice—adding to the festive vibe.

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Is It Family-Friendly?

This cruise is generally suited for adults and couples, but many reviews mention families and group outings. The cruise is suitable for all ages, and there’s no specific age restriction. However, there’s a note about some guests mentioning children being noisy or unruly, which can affect the ambiance. If you’re considering bringing kids, it’s probably better suited for families who are okay with a lively atmosphere and are prepared for some background noise.

Since there’s no formal dress code, casual family attire is perfectly fine. Just keep in mind that the focus is on scenic views and dining—so if your kids are easily distracted or need more entertainment, this might not be the most engaging activity for them.

Practical Details and Tips

• Pricing: Around $71 per person, which many reviews suggest is reasonable for a two-hour river cruise with dinner and entertainment.
• Duration: About 2 hours, usually in the evening, perfect for a dinner outing.
• Meeting Point: Newport Landing Dock at 101 Riverboat Row, with free parking available on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Reservations: Recommended, especially during peak times; you can reserve and pay later, giving you flexibility.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all guests.
• Dress Code: No restrictions—go casual or dress up; it’s entirely up to you.
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before departure—a good safety net if plans change.
• Extras: Soft drinks and alcohol are available for purchase, so consider bringing cash or cards if you want a drink to accompany your meal.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Ohio River cruise offers a pretty solid way to enjoy Cincinnati from a different perspective. The combination of beautiful city views, a hearty buffet, and lively entertainment makes it a versatile outing, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a relaxed evening. The reviews are full of praise for the friendly staff, good food, and the overall ambiance.

It’s especially appealing if you’re looking to enjoy a scenic, no-fuss activity that lets you unwind. The cruise is best suited for those who appreciate good views and a casual vibe—perfect for couples, friends, or even small groups wanting a memorable night on the water.

While some might wish for a more diverse menu or more entertainment options for kids, the majority of guests find this experience to be a fun, satisfying way to spend an evening. For the price, it offers a lot of value—delivering on scenery, good food, and a relaxing atmosphere.

If you’re in Cincinnati or nearby, this cruise is worth considering—just be sure to book in advance, especially if you’re visiting during a busy season. It’s not a fancy, formal affair, but rather an inviting way to take in the river, enjoy good company, and savor a tasty meal while Cincinnati’s lights twinkle around you.

FAQ

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
No, there’s no dress code. You can wear casual or formal clothes, whichever you prefer.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket includes the river cruise, reserved indoor seating, a buffet dinner, coffee, tea, iced tea, and water.

Are soft drinks and alcohol available?
Soft drinks and alcohol are not included in the price but can be purchased on board.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, usually scheduled in the evening.

Where do the cruises depart from?
They leave from the Newport Landing Dock at 101 Riverboat Row, near the Newport Aquarium.

Is parking free?
Yes, parking in front of the dock is free on a first-come, first-serve basis. Overflow parking is available nearby for a fee.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your scheduled cruise for a full refund.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible.

What if I want to bring children?
While the cruise is suitable for all ages, keep in mind that the atmosphere can be lively, especially with music and socializing. It’s best for families comfortable with a casual, relaxed setting.

This Ohio River cruise provides a relaxed, scenic way to experience Cincinnati’s beauty from the water—delicious food, stunning views, and good company guaranteed.

You can check availability for your dates here: