What is the minimum age to attend?

This event is for adults aged 21 and over only.

Is champagne included with the ticket?

Yes, complimentary champagne is included to toast the New Year.

Are there accessibility accommodations?

The First Deck is wheelchair accessible to ensure all guests can participate comfortably.

What is the dress code for the cruise?

Cocktail attire is encouraged but not mandatory, so dress according to your comfort.

When does boarding begin and end?

Boarding starts one hour before the 10 P.M. departure and closes 15 minutes before sailing.

Can I purchase food or drinks on board?

The event includes champagne, but additional food or beverages are not specified; plan accordingly.

Celebrate New Year's Eve in Style: Mary M. Miller Riverboat Party in Louisville | Events | Boat Tour

When chilly December nights settle over Louisville, the Mary M. Miller riverboat transforms into the ultimate setting for an unforgettable New Year's Eve. Docked on the Ohio River at 401 W River Rd, this iconic riverboat invites those aged 21 and over to board for a lively three-hour cruise from 10 P.M. to 1 A.M., marking the arrival of 2024 with bubbles, beats, and breathtaking river views.

Louisville, Kentucky, known for its vibrant riverfront and rich history as a river trading hub, comes alive at this event. The Mary M. Miller is more than a boat—it's a moving celebration of Louisville's deep connection to the Ohio River, with a heritage that echoes the steamboat era. On this cruise, you experience a blend of tradition and contemporary fun aboard a beautifully restored vessel.

Guests start boarding an hour before departure, stepping onto a floating party space with elegant yet approachable vibes. Champagne is flowing—served as part of your ticket—setting the tone for toasts under the wide winter sky. DJ Jill energizes the night with a mix of dance-worthy tracks, making it impossible to stay seated. Complimentary party favors add a festive flair, encouraging everyone to embrace the spirit of celebration.

The boat’s first deck, accessible to wheelchairs, offers inclusive enjoyment of the event, while the vibrant atmosphere invites guests to mingle, dance, and ring in the new year surrounded by the shimmering Louisville skyline reflected on the water.

This annual bash is a favorite local tradition and a standout way to spend the holiday for visitors and residents alike. Its unique river setting lets you welcome the new year with a fresh perspective—gliding past historic riverfront landmarks and panoramic city lights. Unlike typical club or bar scenes, the Mary M. Miller New Year's cruise blends the scenic tranquility of the river with high-energy celebration.

Whether you're a Louisville native looking for a special night out or a traveler seeking a memorable New Year's Eve experience, this event delivers a stylish, fun-filled evening with a distinctly regional character. Cocktail attire is encouraged yet relaxed enough to let attendees feel comfortable while enjoying the night.

In sum, the Mary M. Miller New Year's Bash offers a festive three-hour journey crafted to mix history, social connection, and celebration in one perfect riverboat evening.

About Belle of Louisville

Belle of Louisville is a riverboat operator based in Louisville, Kentucky, offering a variety of public cruises and themed events aboard two vessels: the Belle and the Mary M. Miller. Departing from the Ohio River waterfront, the business presents family-friendly excursions, 21+ specialty cruises, narrated lock passages, and seasonal holiday events. Cruises range from two-hour sunset and throwback music trips to three-hour engineering-focused passages through the McAlpine Locks.

Onboard experiences include organized activities for children—such as pirate-themed trick-or-treating, S.T.E.A.M. crafts, and silent disco headphones—and adult-focused evenings with live jazz, cocktail classes, and costume contests. Several departures offer optional boxed lunches, meal upgrades, or build-your-own taco bars to complement the river views. The Mary M. Miller and the Belle host themed events like kids pirate cruises, Krampus holiday outings, Sunday FunDay meals, #GirlsNightOut celebrations, and prohibition-era speakeasy parties.

The company emphasizes memorable riverfront experiences and local culture while providing narrated historical context during lock cruises and scenic river passages. Ticketing typically allows families, groups, and adult-only attendees to choose featured sailings that match age and interest. Public schedules include recurring themed nights, holiday specials, and seasonal programs that highlight Louisville’s waterfront and community events. Reservations, ticket types, and boarding details are provided through the operator’s official channels.

Staff and crew follow published safety procedures, provide boarding information and accessibility options, and share scheduling updates; groups can reserve private charters or book public sailings for holidays, educational outings, and casual sightseeing along the Ohio River near downtown Louisville waterfront destinations and neighborhoods.