Scenic City Empress Boat Club

The Scenic City Empress is the crown jewel of the Iowa River. The Empress is a 50-passenger, double-decker pontoon boat that hosts weekend public cruises as well as private cruises throughout the week, June through mid-October. Cruises offer beautiful scenery of limestone bluffs, man-made waterfall, wildlife, the historic swinging bridge, and more - all pointed out by the Captain's historic narrative. Enjoy the river cruise in the enclosed air-conditioned lower level or on the upper deck for breathtaking views. Public cruises are every Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. No reservations necessary. $8 adults, $5 children 3-12, children under 3 are free. The Empress is available for private cruises and events that can be booked any day or time of the week pending availability. For private cruise booking information, please call the executive director at 641.648.9517. The Boat Club Lodge can also be reserved for special events and group tour packages.