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Live it up on Cleveland's boats

Cleveland is a city famed for its waterfront, innovative architecture, and elegantly constructed bridges. Cleveland thrived in the industrial era, and its Lake Erie coast is lined with broken up factories, mines and memories of the hard working culture that first established the city. Now speckled with waterfront dining, and night spots like Shooters, the city is lit with a new energy that includes an even more vibrant and diverse culture. The juxtaposition of the two, and the constantly changing landscape of Cleveland are incredible to realize, and most pronounced seen from the waters of the Cuyahoga River.

 

For a guided, audio tour of Cleveland’s past and present, The Goodtime III has the ticket. The ship is Cleveland’s biggest, and most well worn, and the decks are lined with ferry boat style seating for hundreds of tourists. The informational tour is fascinating, and points out spots on the shoreline ranging from the exact scene of the 1930’s torso murders to the first bridges between the east and west banks constructed in the early 1800s. The tour loops around the downtown area, and a cash bar is always up and running. Brunch, lunch and dinner cruises are offered, though the food is catered from shore and beneath standard especially when considering the $28-32 cost per diner. The ship is docked at its harbor outside the Rock Hall until dining on the bottom deck is complete, after which time the ship departs for its two hour cruise. To enjoy the sights at a more reasonable $15, skip the meals and board for the tour.

 

To kick back, enjoy the views and dine high class,The Nautica Queen is the best option for a little luxury in Cleveland. While guided tours are not standard on the vessel, the scenery is still enjoyable and the friendly captains can answer most questions about Cleveland’s history. The Nautica is often host to business events, celebrations, relaxed afternoons and crazy nights on Lake Erie. With a lavish buffet menu, cash bar and live entertainment on every cruise, socializing is the center focus. Cruises range from $28-52, and are usually between two and three hours long. The cost is reasonable considering the overall event of luxury cruising, and The Nautica is a great escape from the trenches of the city and an opportunity to see from a new vantage, truly for its beauty.

 

There is no better place to find perspective and appreciation of Cleveland than from its stunning coast. The Goodtime and The Nautica both offer a great experience in enjoying the city, and are really events that no Clevelander should miss. Cruises will run through October regularly, and both ships offer large group discounts. Cruising the river is a great way to catch a last glance of summer or a gorgeous Lake Erie sunset this season before the winter chill inevitably hits. It’s the last call to live up to this summer’s anthem—hop aboard, grab a drink from the bar, and toast to being on a boat!