We had a fantastic day for a cruise down the Ohio River. The temperature was in the upper 70s and it was sunny. This was much nicer than the weather forecast predicted only a day earlier. Twenty-eight of us drove down in our bus in time to arrive before the boat departed at noon.
Our boat, the River Queen, is royal ship indeed. Tastefully decorated and impeccably preserved, the River Queen exudes romantic riverboat-era charm. Two climate-controlled decks include spacious seating arrangements and buffet service. For those of us who preferred the fresh air, they also have an upper covered third deck which offers a great view of the city and a small gift shop with refreshments. This deck is open-air, but covered, so the sun was not an issue. The sun was welcome but there were occasions when some would like a little shade.
We were all seated together and were able to enjoy visiting and eating.
We also enjoyed the company of a Banjo musician and tour guide to tell us about the sights around us as we moved up and down the river. This added an authentic feel and sound to the travel bringing to mind the good old days of river travel. My grandfather worked on a riverboat for a short time. I’m not sure if he travelled on the Missouri River or Mississippi, though. He was a bit of a scoundrel, so the family didn’t talk much about that part of his life! Actually, I don’t think they knew much because that was before he married my grandmother, who was much younger than he was.
Our riverboat was a sternwheeler with the big paddle wheel behind the ship. It looked like it may have struck a log or two along the way!
As we travelled, ate and talked, our guide pointed out points along the way and told stories about many, perhaps most, of them. He was a talker!
One place that we passed along the Kentucky side of the river was a very nice, and probably expensive, condo complex. One of our ladies told us that her husband is the one who designed it. Impressive!
I enjoyed getting to meet several new people during this trip. I always like hearing their life stories. They can teach me a thing or two, and always do!
Of course there are many beautiful places to live, work, play and eat all along this section of the river!
There were also some very nice church settings on either side of the river.
There was also plenty of activity on the river to observe!
But, most of all, the real beauty of the Ohio River in this area is the riverscape on either side of the mighty Ohio!
We wouldn’t go far without the able leadership of our Captain. We didn’t hit anything and stayed afloat the entire trip! 
I think a few people thought we might be a pirate ship because of this flag! But, it would only be fair to note that there were plenty of good old American flags strung around the upper deck and I didn’t see any pirates. Perhaps that was put there in the past by another crew!
It would be correct to say that everyone had a great time and enjoyed the ride and excellent weather and company!
