MARIETTA, Ohio – The Valley Gem stern-wheeler in Marietta has long been a fixture on the Ohio River, offering visitors and locals a unique way to experience the region’s beauty, history and culture. With its classic paddle wheel design and vintage charm, it offers narrated sightseeing tours, dinner cruises and other special events.
Now the fleet has added a second riverboat, the Major Riviera, that is also rich in classic riverboat tradition.
Both vessels are propelled by large paddle wheels that churn the water behind them, capturing the romance of river travel from a bygone era.
Knowledgeable guides aboard the Valley Gem and Major Riviera lead each tour, providing commentary on everything from Native American heritage and pioneer settlements to the industrial development that shaped the Ohio River Valley.
One of the company’s signature offerings is its dinner cruises, where guests enjoy fine dining as the elegant stern-wheelers glide along the river. These evening cruises also include live music, theatrical productions and special themed events.
Among the most fascinating experiences offered by the Valley Gem fleet are the lock cruises, which allow passengers to travel through the Ohio River’s impressive system of locks and dams.
What makes these cruises especially unique is the hand-operated locks and dams on the Muskingum River, a series of historic structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Built in the 19th century, these locks are some of the last hand-operated locks in the United States, preserving a remarkable piece of engineering history.
Passengers watch as the crew maneuvers the vessels through these working locks, experiencing firsthand the skill needed to raise or lower the boats as water levels adjust. Guides explain the history and mechanics of the locks, sharing stories about their construction and role in regional commerce and river travel.
The lock cruises blend education, history and adventure and are popular with families, school groups and history enthusiasts.
Though new to the fleet, the Major Riviera maintains the elegance associated with the great riverboats of the past. It features spacious decks, comfortable seating and large windows for sightseeing.
The Major Riviera increases the fleet’s passenger capacity, allowing the Valley Gem to host larger groups for private events, weddings, corporate outings and community celebrations. Its design incorporates modern amenities, ensuring guest comfort without losing nostalgic appeal.
For more information or to book a cruise, go to ValleyGemSternwheeler.com.
Pictured at top: The Major Riviera paddle wheeler cruises along the Ohio River, with the city of Marietta, where it docks, in the background.