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Best Boating Trips Near Pittsburgh

From the slopes of Mount Washington to the waterways of the city's three rivers, Pittsburgh is the embodiment of geographical diversity. It was built out of steel, evidenced by the more than 446 bridges that cross its waterways. Once known for its pollution, today it is considered one of the most livable cities, not only in America but around the world. Much of its scenic beauty is attributable to the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio Rivers. Celebrate this amazing city with a cruise or two down its three rivers with the best boating trips the city has to offer.

Boat - Riverboat Cruise
Photo Credit: ThinkStock

Gateway Clipper Fleet
350 West Station Square Dr.
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 355-7980
www.gatewayclipper.com

Price: $20 adults/$10 children

The Majestic, the Empress, The Princess, The Duchess and the Countess — formerly the Good Ship Lollipop — make up the Gateway Clipper's Fleet. From round-trip transportation to Pirate and Steeler games on the North Shore to weddings of more than 250 people, the Gateway Clipper has this city covered. Show off to out of town friends or family members with all that Pittsburgh has to offer on an hour-long tour on one of the fleet's ships. An ideal venue for everything from 4th of July fireworks to corporate gatherings and formal events, the Gateway Clipper Fleet promises the perfect voyage every time.

RelatedBest Bike Trails Around Pittsburgh

Just Ducky Tours
Photo Credit: justduckytours.com

Just Ducky Tours
125 West Station Square Dr.
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
(412) 402-3825
www.justduckytours.com

Price: $21 adults/$15 children

The Just Ducky Tours specializes in amphibious-style sightseeing over both land and water. Tours begin on land through Pittsburgh's business, cultural and downtown districts, then finish with a waterborne photo opportunity on one of Pittsburgh's three rivers. Just Ducky's tours are great experience for everyone from visitors to life-long Pittsburgh natives. Tours last roughly 90 minutes and fill up fast, so register your group beforehand.

Rush Hour Boat Charters
Photo Credit: rushhourboatcharters.com

Rush Hour Boat Charters
98 Branchport St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
(412) 855-7874
www.rushhourboatcharters.com

Click here for prices

Rush Hour tours take place on a 32-foot luxury ship. The ship's captain Bob Rush promises passengers a relaxing experience on the river that is designed to fit each group's individual wishes. Rush Hour Boat charters specialize in photography, corporate and river history trips, and tour sizes range from single passengers to groups of six people or more. Hour-long tour rates start at $85 for groups up to six people, and all trips must be booked in advance.

Pittsburgh City Tour
Photo Credit: pghwaterlimo.com

Pittsburgh Water Limo
Lockwall One Marina
23rd Street
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
(412) 221-5466
www.pghwaterlimo.com

Click here for prices

Make it a river party with Pittsburgh Water Limo this summer. With two luxury yachts, Fantasy and Miss Pittsburgh, there isn't an event or occasion this company can't handle. It specializes in beer tastings, wine and cheese cruises, and custom-themed cruises all in a luxury yacht atmosphere. Hop on board for a Steelers, Panthers or Pirates game, or customize a private cruise for your next big event.

Riverquest
Photo Credit: Riverquest.org/Facebook

River Quest
1501 Reedsdale St., Ste. 2001
Pittsburgh, PA 15233
(412) 231-2712
www.riverquest.org

Price: $5.95 to $7.95

River Quest works to provide environmental science education to students and professionals around Pittsburgh and the Ohio Valley. Founded in 1991 by Pittsburgh Voyager, Inc. the non-profit group provides children with an experimental classroom setting to learn about science, math and sailing. Adventure Voyages are popular with crowds of all ages and offer a comprehensive 90-minute tour that provides up-close encounters with aquatic creatures, native fish species and seasonal waterfowl.

Related articles: Favorite Spot To Take Visitors In Pittsburgh

Marcel Tourdot is a freelance writer from Pittsburgh. His work can be found at Examiner.com.

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