Watch from your own private cruise.
Float on the river for a front-row view of PNC Park’s fireworks and synchronized drone formations. This two-hour private cruise turns a busy waterfront spectacle into an intimate, photographable evening on the water.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Low physical demand—able-bodied visitors who can step on and off a small boat and stand for periods will be fine.
Wildlife
History
Pittsburgh’s rivers were central to trade and steel manufacture; waterfront celebrations have long marked the city’s civic life.
Conservation
Keep all trash on board and use designated restroom facilities; minimize light pollution and follow operator guidance to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Rush Hour Boat Charters
Watch from your own private cruise.
Rush Hour Boat Charters is a private charter company based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offering scenic cruises on the city’s three rivers.
Operating a 34' Cruiser Yacht, the company provides two-, three- and four-hour private charters that accommodate small groups for daytime, sunset, and nighttime cruises. Amenities on board include a lavatory, spacious cockpit and salon, sunning space on the bow, and Bluetooth audio hookup for personalized music. Guests may bring their own beverages and food (BYOB) or arrange catered options to customize the experience.
Trips include narrated sightseeing options and relaxed BYOB cruises suitable for couples, families, or groups of friends. A specific two-hour private sightseeing charter is available for one to six passengers, offering narrated tours or a more upbeat ride with personal music. Sunset and night cruises highlight city lights reflecting on the water and provide photographic opportunities of Pittsburgh’s skyline from unique river vantage points.
Rush Hour Boat Charters emphasizes private, customizable experiences with flexible scheduling and clear trip descriptions so customers can plan occasions such as romantic outings, family time, or casual gatherings. The vessel’s size and amenities support comfort and accessibility while cruising Pittsburgh’s rivers. Booking information and specific trip details are provided through the company’s reservation channels. All statements are based on the company’s published trip summaries and described onboard features.
Reservations typically specify passenger limits, trip length, and departure points along the downtown riverfront; pricing and availability vary by season and are disclosed during booking. Customers can request special occasion arrangements when booking.
Location
Pittsburgh, PA
Departures on the three rivers
Capacity
1–6 passengers
Two-hour sightseeing option limits guests
Trip Lengths
2–4 hours
Two, three, and four hour charters
Vessel
34' Cruiser Yacht
Cockpit, salon, lavatory onboard
Book a 2, 3, or 4-hour private cruise on a 34' Cruiser Yacht — BYOB allowed and customizable for special occasions. Check availability and reserve a departure time.
Arrive early for boarding
Boarding opens before sunset; arrive 20–30 minutes early to claim bow space and settle gear.
Layer up for cool nights
Even in summer the river breeze can be chilly—bring a warm layer and a windproof shell.
Stabilize your camera
Use a compact tripod or a lens with image stabilization for long exposures of fireworks and drones.
Check seasickness options
If you’re prone to motion sensitivity, take medication beforehand and choose a midship seat to reduce roll.
Layered jacket
Blocks river breeze and keeps you comfortable during cool post-sunset temperatures.
summer
Compact tripod or monopod
Stabilizes long-exposure shots of fireworks and drones.
Camera with low-light capability
A camera that handles high ISO and long exposures captures clearer night shots.
Motion sickness medication
Useful for guests sensitive to small boat motion.