Hiawatha’s 30th Season on the River

Now in its 30th year on the river, the Hiawatha has begun operating public and specialty cruises for the 2011 sailing season.  Record breaking amounts of rain in the month of April caused the first delay of the season in the boat’s 30 year history.

The launch of the docks and the Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat were originally planned earlier but the river water was too high causing extensive flooding in the Susquehanna Park, home of the Hiawatha.  On Monday, May 9 the boat was safely and successfully put in the water after sitting on dry dock during the winter months.
 
The general public is invited to take a public cruise on weekends in May and starting in June the regular schedule of cruises will operate 6 days a week.  The Hiawatha sets sail up to 4 times a day and features a recorded narration of the history of the Susquehanna River and its’ importance to the region over the last several decades.  Still visible from the boat are remnants of the logging era that once made Williamsport home of powerful lumber barons and one of the richest towns in the United States.
 
There are also plenty of “specialty” cruises sailing during the evenings including concert cruises, wing cruises, and karaoke cruises.  The popular Family Night and Kid’s Karaoke cruises are great for all ages.  Tickets are sold in advance for all of the specialty cruises and usually are sell out events.  The administrative office is open 6 days a week and located at 1500 West Third Street, Williamsport, PA 17701.
 
And for groups, the Hiawatha may be rented for private event such as weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthday parties, anniversaries, business meetings or any event.  There is a full service beverage service aboard and the boat can accommodate caterers as well as bands, djs and entertainers.  The main cabin is climate controlled and can be heated or cooled to make the cruise comfortable any time of the year.
 
For more information on the Hiawatha season, specialty cruises, departure times, prices, and private charter rental, call River Valley Transit at 570.326.2500 or visit www.rideHiawatha.com for details.