Celebrate New Year's Eve with a Festive Riverboat Dinner Cruise in Pittsburgh

Read the full experience

Experience a memorable New Year's Eve celebration aboard the historic Gateway Clipper Fleet in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Departing from 350 West Station Square Drive, this two-hour dinner cruise offers a unique perspective on the city's iconic skyline as it lights up for the holiday. Glide along Pittsburgh’s Three Rivers—Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio—and take in the panoramic nighttime views of its bridges and illuminated downtown architecture. The atmosphere onboard blends festivity and comfort, making it an ideal way to ring in the New Year. What sets this cruise apart is its seamless blend of lively entertainment and exquisite dining. Guests can indulge in a delicious buffet featuring diverse selections designed to satisfy a variety of tastes, freshly prepared and served throughout the voyage. Complement your meal with a complimentary glass of champagne—an essential toast as the countdown to midnight begins. The full-service bars, stocked with a wide selection of wine, beer, spirits, and specialty Pittsburgh-style cocktails, add to the celebratory mood. Note that alcohol service is 21+. Musical enjoyment is front and center with a live DJ spinning dance favorites alongside curated holiday classics. The open dance floor invites you to move to the beat, creating a party atmosphere that energizes the entire vessel. If you're commemorating a special event during the cruise, the DJs can customize the playlist to amplify your celebration. The Gateway Clipper Fleet is a cornerstone of Pittsburgh's river culture, known for connecting visitors and locals with the scenic waterways that define the city's character. This New Year's Eve Dinner Cruise capitalizes on that tradition, offering guests a combination of convivial dining, spirited music, and the distinctive charm of a nighttime river journey. Ideal for groups, couples, and travelers looking for an unforgettable urban adventure, this cruise delivers festive fun with a focus on community and place. It’s an opportunity to celebrate amidst the sparkling backdrop of Pittsburgh’s skyline while enjoying thoughtfully crafted food and drinks. Located conveniently in Station Square, Pittsburgh's riverside entertainment district, this cruise allows easy access to nearby hotels and amenities, making it simple to plan your night from start to finish. Whether you’re local or visiting, this New Year’s Eve experience aboard the Gateway Clipper Fleet offers a distinctive way to welcome the new year with warmth and energy.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

2 hours.

Fitness level

No special fitness level required; suitable for all ages comfortable with dining and mild movement.

Frequently asked questions

What time does the New Year's Eve Dinner Cruise start?

The cruise departs from 350 West Station Square Drive for a two-hour voyage; exact boarding time is communicated when you book.

Is alcohol available for purchase onboard?

Yes, a full-service bar offers beer, wine, spirits, and specialty cocktails, but guests must be 21 or older with valid ID.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility information is not specified; please contact Gateway Clipper directly for accommodations.

Can I customize music for special occasions during the cruise?

Yes, guests celebrating special events can request shout-outs or songs from the live DJ hosts.

Are children allowed on the New Year's Eve Dinner Cruise?

There is no specified age limit; however, alcohol service is restricted to guests 21 and older.

What kind of food is served on the buffet?

The buffet includes a variety of freshly prepared dishes to cater to most tastes, detailed menus are available on the Gateway Clipper website.

Local insights

Wildlife

Ducks and geese often seen near the river’s edges during daytime.
Occasional sightings of migrating birds along the rivers in the winter months.

History

The Gateway Clipper Fleet has been a Pittsburgh icon since the 1950s, highlighting the city’s rich riverboat heritage.

Conservation

The fleet implements environmentally conscious practices to protect the river ecosystem and minimize pollution during cruises.

About Gateway Clipper Fleet

Gateway Clipper Fleet is a Pittsburgh-based riverboat operator offering themed cruises, family outings, concert sailings, and special-event charters along the city's waterways. Operating grand riverboats, the fleet presents a variety of scheduled experiences from nostalgic decade parties to family-friendly “Mommy & Me” events. Each cruise highlights Pittsburgh’s skyline and bridges, providing distinctive views and onboard entertainment that range from DJs and live tribute bands to karaoke, photo booths, and themed activities. The fleet’s event lineup includes family-focused sailings such as Millie’s Pink Party and Pink Party for Mommy & Me, high-energy party cruises like the SUMMER OF KISS KickOff Cruise and 3WS Big Hair, Big Boat Party, and a multi-date Summer Music Series featuring tribute acts and local performers. Cruises commonly include onboard amenities such as a fully stocked bar, DJs or live bands, dancing areas, and curated themed activities suited to each event. Gateway Clipper Fleet is known locally for staging public events that accommodate groups, celebrations, and seasonal promotions. The fleet’s offerings cater to a broad audience—families seeking daytime fun, groups planning memorable nights out, and music fans attending waterfront concerts. Tickets are typically sold per event and include access to scheduled entertainment and riverfront views. The fleet’s steady schedule of themed and music cruises makes it a recognizable part of Pittsburgh’s seasonal events and entertainment scene. For visitors and residents seeking an alternative view of the city, Gateway Clipper Fleet combines scenic Three Rivers routes with curated onboard programming to create memorable riverboat experiences.

Base locationPittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Tours offered42+

Specialty

Adventure tips

Arrive Early for BoardingPlan to arrive at 350 West Station Square Drive at least 30 minutes before departure to allow for smooth boarding and seating.

Dress WarmlyEven though much of the event is indoors, temperatures on the river can be chilly at night, so dress in layers for comfort.

Alcohol PolicyYou must be 21 or older to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages onboard. Bring valid ID to avoid issues.

Dance Floor EtiquetteRespect fellow guests on the open dance floor and enjoy the music with courtesy and fun.

Recommended gear

Warm Jacket: To stay comfortable during boarding and outdoor moments on the river at night.
Comfortable Shoes: Supportive footwear is helpful for standing and moving on the boat’s dance floor.
Valid Photo ID: Required onboard to purchase alcohol and verify age.
Camera or Smartphone: Capture the city skyline and festive moments throughout the cruise.