Welcome Aboard BB Riverboats!

Kings and Queens of the River Since 1979

Built from a love of the mighty Ohio

Humble beginnings.

Inspired by Cincinnati’s deep connection to the Ohio River, Ben Bernstein and river industry pioneer Betty Blake envisioned a new way for people to experience the river and the city surrounding it. Together, they created experiences built around authentic riverboat charm, unforgettable views, dining, entertainment, and the timeless romance of classic river travel.

What began as a bold idea quickly became one of Cincinnati’s most beloved traditions. Generations of guests have gathered aboard BB Riverboats to celebrate, relax, sightsee, dine, and create memories on the water. More than four decades later, that same passion for the river continues to guide every cruise experience today.

Cruising into the future.

BB Riverboats quickly became an important part of Cincinnati’s riverfront culture and history. From earning exclusive operating rights at the 1982 World’s Fair in Knoxville to playing a major role in Cincinnati’s legendary Tall Stacks festivals throughout the late 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s — and again during the return of the celebration as River Roots Festival in 2025 — BB Riverboats has remained deeply connected to the Ohio River and the communities surrounding it.

Today, BB Riverboats continues to be family-owned and operated by Alan Bernstein and his children, Terri and Ben Bernstein, alongside a dedicated team passionate about preserving the tradition, hospitality, and experience of authentic riverboat travel for future generations.

For us, the river is always calling.

The Port of Cincinnati

Shortly after opening, BB Riverboats began operating from the historic Mike Fink before eventually establishing its permanent home on Riverboat Row in Newport, Kentucky, just steps from the Roebling Suspension Bridge and the downtown Cincinnati skyline.

Today, guests from across the country visit BB Riverboats to experience sightseeing cruises, dining cruises, private events, and authentic riverboat hospitality along the Ohio River. Whether you’re stepping aboard for the first time or continuing a family tradition, we invite you to come visit us on the river.

Our Fleet | Our Pride

Belle of Cincinnati

The Belle of Cincinnati is the flagship of the BB Riverboats fleet and one of the region’s most iconic riverboats. Featuring elegant Victorian-inspired details, climate-controlled decks, and expansive open-air viewing areas, the Belle combines classic riverboat atmosphere with modern comfort. Guests can dine, relax, sight-see, and experience incredible views of the Cincinnati skyline and Northern Kentucky shoreline from every level aboard the vessel.

River Queen

The River Queen captures the timeless charm and romance of traditional riverboat travel. Featuring spacious climate-controlled dining decks, full-service bars, a dance floor, and open-air viewing areas, the River Queen offers a relaxed and memorable atmosphere for sightseeing cruises, dining experiences, private events, weddings, and celebrations on the Ohio River.

River's Edge

River’s Edge Event Center brings the atmosphere and beauty of the Ohio River to private events without ever leaving the dock. Located along Riverboat Row in Newport, Kentucky, River’s Edge offers a unique riverfront venue for weddings, rehearsal dinners, reunions, corporate events, parties, and celebrations of all kinds. With modern amenities, skyline views, and space for up to 225 guests, it’s one of the region’s most distinctive event venues.

Our Family | Our Team

Alan Bernstein

Alan Bernstein began his river career by skipping his high school graduation to accept a deckhand position aboard the legendary Delta Queen in 1970, beginning a lifelong connection to the river industry that continues today. Holding multiple Master’s licenses for Western Rivers and inland waterways, Alan has spent decades helping shape riverboat operations, tourism, and hospitality throughout the region.As the longtime patriarch of the Bernstein family and one of the most recognizable personalities on the river, Alan is known not only for his leadership and experience, but also for his storytelling, humor, and genuine love of river life. Guests and crew alike know that spending time with Captain Alan usually means hearing a great story from decades spent on the Ohio River.

In addition to leading BB Riverboats alongside his family, Alan has served in numerous leadership roles within the Passenger Vessel Association and regional tourism organizations. His contributions to America’s river industry earned him recognition in the National Rivers Hall of Fame.

Ben Bernstein

Ben Bernstein represents the third generation of the Bernstein family to operate BB Riverboats in the Port of Cincinnati and has been involved in the family business since 1993. A graduate of Dixie Heights High School and the University of Kentucky, Ben combines lifelong hands-on river experience with leadership roles throughout the passenger vessel industry. He holds a 1600-ton Inland Master’s license and a 200-ton Master of Towing license for the Western Rivers.

Alongside his sister, Terri, Ben now helps lead and operate BB Riverboats with their father, Alan Bernstein, continuing the family tradition of authentic riverboat hospitality on the Ohio River. In addition to his work aboard the boats, Ben has served on the Board of Directors for the Passenger Vessel Association and previously chaired the organization’s Safety and Security Committee, helping guide industry standards and operations nationwide.

Terri Bernstein

Terri Bernstein is part of the third generation leading BB Riverboats and has spent her life around the riverboat industry. A graduate of Dixie Heights High School, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management from Western Kentucky University, along with a Bachelor’s Degree in Paralegal Studies from Purdue University. Terri brings decades of operational, hospitality, and leadership experience to the family business.

In addition to helping oversee BB Riverboats, Terri is a Past President of the Passenger Vessel Association and currently serves on the organization’s Regulatory and Membership Committees. She also sits on the Board of Directors and serves as Treasurer of the Haunted Attraction Association, while remaining active in tourism, hospitality, and entertainment organizations throughout the region.