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River Boat Cruises

• Hour Glass 2 hours
• User All ages

Mother’s Day Brunch Cruise

Our Buffet Brunch offers an abundance of excellent food. Enjoy the sights and sounds of the beautiful Manasquan River, and conditions permitting, the Pt. Pleasant Canal & Barnegat Bay with time for sightseeing on the return trip.

• Hour Glass 2.5 hours

Mother’s Day Dinner Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise featuring a variety of entrees while you cruise along the calm inland waters of the Manasquan River and conditions permitting, the Point Pleasant Canal and Barnegat Bay.

Father’s Day Brunch Cruise

Father’s day dinner cruise, july 4th dinner & fireworks.

Enjoy a scenic cruise, a delicious meal, and weather permitting a FIREWORKS DISPLAY!!

Fireworks weather permitting. River Queen sails rain or shine

• Most Popular
• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Sightseeing Cruise

Our sightseeing cruises offer unique perspectives of the beautiful waters and picturesque homes of the Manasquan River. Set sail on our most popular cruise!

Sunday Brunch Cruises

Our Sunday Brunch cruise is available selected Sundays.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of the beautiful Manasquan River, and conditions permitting, the Pt. Pleasant Canal and Barnegat Bay with time for sightseeing on the return trip.

Click the “Book Now” button to see available dates.

Lunch Cruise

Enjoy lunch as you take in the sights and sounds of the beautiful Manasquan River and, conditions permitting, the Point Pleasant Canal and Barnegat Bay.

Pasta & Fireworks Cruise

Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Manasquan River with a delicious pasta dinner and, of course, a fireworks display!

Fireworks weather permitting. River Queen sails rain or shine.

• Hour Glass 3 hours

Murder Mystery Dinner

A whodunnit on the water! Our Murder Mystery dinner cruise features a 3 hour cruise, buffet dinner and of course, a Murder!!

Private Events

Weddings, parties, available for private events on halloween & new year's eve.

The River Queen is available for private events, Weddings, Anniversaries, Birthdays, and Corporate Functions.

Come experience the sights of the Manasquan River and more on a cruise! Join us for lunch, enjoy some sightseeing, celebrate a holiday on board with loved ones, or book a private cruise for your special occasion.

Tickets may be purchased online, in person, or by mail. Individual tickets go on sale 30 days prior to the sailing date. For large groups, please call our office for booking information (732) 528 – 6620. When sailing on one of our dining cruises, advance ticket purchase is always recommended. Please keep in mind tickets may not always be available on the day of sailing, so please call to check availability.

River Lady Tours LLC Online Reservations

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Online tickets can be purchased with: Visa, MasterCard or Discover Prior to purchasing tickets, please review all policies below.

Reservation / Cancellation Policy

By checking this box, I agree that once the tickets/gift certificates are purchased, they are not refundable. However, you may reschedule reservations free of charge with a minimum of 14 days advance notice prior to your cruise departure, depending upon availability. I also acknowledge that all cruises take place rain or shine, since seating is protected from the weather.

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Privacy Policy Information collected is for our internal company purposes only. We will not share your information with other companies. Tobacco Policy Smoking is not permitted onboard Thank you for understanding.

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Maurice River Cruises

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Maurice River Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Navesink Queen

The queen of classic boat rides.

The newest addition to our small fleet is the Navesink Queen – she is Coast Guard inspected to carry up to 150 passengers (120 max for a celebration) and is docked in Atlantic Highlands at Franks Pier in slip 65.

What is it?

A Paddle Wheel Boat (Formerly the Elizabeth River Ferry II).  Capt. Dannie Schade and his wife Vicky purchased the paddle wheel boat in January of 2019. They brought her up from Norfolk Virginia in February and then spent the winter and summer of 2019 getting her ready to become part of the Classic Boat Rides fleet.

What have we done with her? 

Since the purchase, much work has been done to this beauty to restore her to her original glory.  Plus, we’ve enhanced the ship in many ways.  Since her original route with her former owners, (Hampton Roads Transit) was less than half an hour, the boat did not have bathrooms, so, we had to build and install brand new ones. Then, of course, we had to do a new stability test and a bunch of other inspections with the Coast Guard before she received a new COI (Certificate of Inspection) to start carrying passengers.

We also installed a new canopy cover on the 2nd-floor deck and refinished the entire boat with fresh paint.  Since this is a fun boat, we also added a new sound system and a full-service bar.

There are also two 57 inch TVs in the main cabin for your picture scroll, videos or to catch the game.  (or to view the live music on the 2nd deck)

On the interior main deck there is Booth and table seating for up to 40 people. – On the second deck we can customize the space per your needs. 4 picnic tables and 8 6 foot benches. Any or all of the picnic tables can be removed for an open floor plan for dancing etc. There are radiator heaters on the main deck. The 2nd deck is open-air with a canopy for shade. The bow decks on both levels are in the open air. A great spot to enjoy the sea breeze and passing sights.

How did we end up getting this boat?  

We actually won the boat in an online auction that was published on the front page of “Boats and Harbors”.  After placing the initial bid we checked the online auction site the next day and saw what we thought was a much higher bid than ours. Our hearts sank, as hopes of owning a new paddle wheel boat were dashed… Fast forward to six weeks later and we received what seemed like an odd call from the auction company saying “congratulations – you’re the Winning Bidders”.  When we inquired about the other bidder we were told we were looking at was actually OUR bidder number and not the high bidder price of the boat.  So we were the winners of the former Elizabeth River Ferry II. In her past life, she ran service between Norfolk and Hampton Roads Virginia – just a 20-minute ride across the river.  The Ferry boat was well maintained but not necessarily loved. We have been giving her some Classic Boat Rides love since we took possession and will continue to do so.

What’s in the name?  

We got the idea for the name of the boat from my wife Vicky, who is from England, where they have a Queen (once named Elizabeth). We also like to cruise on the Navesink River. We also like the Classic Movie African Queen. So we came up with Navesink Queen. Also of note, our 40 passenger boat the MARINER was built in Deltaville Virginia, and ironically was once named the Navesink Queen.  Also, Vicky’s’ Mums name was Elizabeth (Elizabeth River Ferry). We had been searching for a bigger boat for several years and finally the stars aligned and we found the “Queen”. We look forward to having your friends and family aboard soon.

Experience A New Side Of New Jersey On This One-Of-A-Kind Adventure

Raymond Goldfield

Raymond Goldfield is a life-long New Jersey resident and an avid traveler and foodie who can be usually found on the Jersey Shore during the offseason or checking out the latest seasonal flavors at The Bent Spoon in Princeton. He has been working for Only In Your State for since early 2022, where he writes for New Jersey and Iowa and edits the Mid-Atlantic region. He can also be found writing about pop culture for GeekDad. When at home, he enjoys reading comic books and is part of The Rabbitt Stew podcast team. While New Jersey is his home base, he travels regularly and has visited Virginia, Florida, Maine, Minnesota, and Canada as well as all of NJ's border states. Ultimate travel goal? Visit all the best buffets in the United States.

More by this Author

New Jersey has the best of both worlds – we’re not nearly as packed as New York City, but we’re not far from it and have some amazing views of the skyline. There’s no better way to experience those views than by a trip on the open water, and one lunch cruise in New Jersey is the perfect one-of-a-kind adventure. The Spirit of New Jersey, a modern river cruise, sets off from Weehawken and takes guests around the skyline, with some of the most famous views in the world. Organized by Viator , this lunch cruise contains a delicious buffet meal, music, and activities. This two-hour experience starts at $109, and is offered most Saturdays as well as select other days. All aboard for the best way to see New York without ever leaving New Jersey!

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Have you taken this lunch cruise in New Jersey before? What are your favorite places to view the New York skyline? Let us know in the comments section. If you’re interested in booking your own excursion, you can see full details on pricing and available dates on the official Viator listing . While you’re in Weehawken, make sure to visit one of New Jersey’s most unique historic sites – the Weehawken Dueling Grounds .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Maurice River Cruises

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The beautiful Maurice River begins at Union Lake in Millville and empties out in the Delaware River 25 miles later. The river has been declared "Wild and Scenic" which protects it from commercialism and development. On the two hour cruise you will see gorgeous meadows, wild rice, lots of wildlife, and the only working diked farm left in New Jersey. Both dock and boat are handicapped accessible.

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Wagon wheel restaurant,  lodging, quality inn & suites, fairfield inn & suites millville, holiday inn express & suites, days inn vineland, quality inn, wingate by wyndham vineland, hampton inn & suites vineland,  activities, riverfront renaissance center for the arts, the levoy theatre, glasstown arts district, fowser road boat ramp, museum of american glass, down jersey folklife center, wheatonarts, glasstown brewing company,  events, foreigner's journey, the great dubois - masters of variety, heart by heart, spheres bubble show, menopause the musical, hollywood nights – the bob seger experience, dirty deeds - the ac/dc experience, the breakers: a tribute to tom petty,   activities,   events, nearby upcoming events.

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The Best River Cruises for Seniors in New Jersey

Many people know New Jersey for its Atlantic shoreline, but the state also boasts some of the most spectacular rivers in the country. In fact, there are actually over 240 rivers, streams, and creeks crisscrossing New Jersey’s diverse landscape.

  The waterways are ideal for easy-going pontoon boat rides, sailing, and other water activities. River cruises in New Jersey are also a common way to enjoy the beautiful outdoors, and they’re especially popular with seniors. New Jersey river cruises attract guests from all over the country as well as local residents.

  Of the hundreds of waterways around the state, these 11 are considered   “top” rivers :  Hudson, Delaware, Passaic, Ramapo, Raritan, Tuckahoe, Hackensack, Manasquan, Rancocas Creek, Mullica, and Navesink. In fact, the Atrium at Navesink Harbor, one of the country’s premier retirement communities, is located on the shores of this picturesque waterway.

  Seniors lucky enough to call The Atrium home know well the benefits of living near water or “blue space” as it’s called–and it’s not just a gut feeling. Research has proven that maintaining proximity to water, especially the sea, is associated with many positive measures of physical and mental well-being.

  Residents of The Atrium at Navesink Harbor in Red Bank, New Jersey, enjoy a multitude of opportunities for boating and fishing. In fact, the Navesink River, as well as the state’s other popular rivers, offer myriad waterfront activities to indulge in, including relaxing day cruises.

Permission to Come Aboard

If river cruises for seniors interest you, browse this list of the state’s four most popular river cruise lines to explore. You’ll find options for watching the sunset, dancing, listening to live music, and more! Some of the companies also specialize in chartering their boats for private parties and celebrations–who has a milestone anniversary coming up?

• The River Lady The River Lady is a 150-passenger, 85′ authentic reproduction of a paddle wheel riverboat that cruises the Toms River and beautiful Barnegat Bay. As one of the most popular river cruises in New Jersey, it operates a full schedule d uring the summer months, with public cruises running each week. There are sightseeing, lunch, and dinner excursions available, and the boat can be rented for private parties .
• Classic Boat Rides Choose from two boats: the Navesink Queen, a roomy paddle wheel boat, or the Mariner, a Chesapeake Bay Dead Rise wooden boat. Like many river cruises in New Jersey, the embarkation port is the Atlantic Highlands Municipal Marina. Several types of day cruise options (sightseeing, sunset, live music, etc.) are available for trips along local waterways.
• Teal Cruises   The company’s private cruise and charter boat, The Festiva, is available for just about any type of celebration, from weddings to anniversary parties, and more. The boat has a full kitchen to provide lunches, dinners, and cocktail hour fare.  The Sunday brunch cruises are open to the public. Embarkation port is the Atlantic Highlands Municipal Marina.
• The River Queen Tours   This pleasant river cruise in New Jersey has you floating along the beautiful, calm inland waters of the Manasquan River, Point Pleasant Canal,and Barnegat Bay. Lunch, brunch, and dinner cruises are available, with special holiday events including a New Year’s Eve cruise, and a Murder Mystery dinner cruise.

Cosmopolitan Waterfront Living Awaits You

  Would you love to make taking  river cruises in New Jersey a regular thing? Then come explore The Atrium at Navesink Harbor. This beautiful senior living community celebrates waterfront living in every way–we even have our own pontoon boat so residents can enjoy scenic rides on the river. Explore all the outstanding amenities we have to offer, and then contact us. We’d love to show you around!

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How to Enjoy New Jersey’s Wild and Scenic Rivers

Protected by congress, these three rivers offer "rare beauty"—and exceptional boating, birding, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, tubing and camping..

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The Maurice River is one of many beautiful places to visit in New Jersey. Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions

One day in 2006, while boating with his grandson on South Jersey’s Maurice River, Dave Scherer was struck by the realization that Millville, his hometown, was harboring a secret that cried out to be shared.

“It occurred to me that, because the river is unspoiled, offering rare beauty in our overdeveloped world, more people should get to enjoy it,” he recalls. “I asked myself what I could do to make that happen.”

Scherer was aware that, on December 1, 1993, Congress had officially designated 35.4 miles of the Maurice River and its tributaries, the Manumuskin River and Menantico and Muskee creeks, as wild and scenic. This designation is significant, forever keeping any river that receives it primitive, free-flowing, and protected from commercialism and overdevelopment.

The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System was created in 1968, ultimately protecting nearly 14,000 miles of 226 rivers in 41 states and Puerto Rico.

The Musconetcong River is a tributary of the Delaware. Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions

The Garden State is home to three such rivers. Two of them, the Maurice and the Great Egg Harbor rivers, are nestled in the 1.1 million-acre New Jersey Pinelands, with its unique, protected ecosystem. The third is the Delaware. Sections of the Musconetcong River, a tributary of the Delaware in the Highlands region of North Jersey, are included as wild and scenic: the 3.5-mile segment from Saxton Falls to the Route 46 Bridge, the 20.7-mile segment from the King’s Highway Bridge to the railroad tunnels at Musconetcong Gorge, and the 4.3-mile segment from Hughesville Mill to the confluence with the Delaware River.

[ RELATED : The Best Outdoor Activities in New Jersey ]

So what became of Scherer’s dream of sharing the natural beauty of the Maurice River? He purchased a hurricane-damaged pontoon boat in Florida, had it transported to Millville, and rehabbed it with the help of his grandson David Enright. They added a canopy, 18 seats, a long table for onboard dining, and a tiny bathroom.

The Great Egg Harbor River is located in the Pinelands. Photo: AEROJO Drone Productions

Scherer had earned his master captain’s license in 1996, so he was all set to start offering environmental rides on the river in a new business he christened Maurice River Cruises . As Captain Dave, he takes passengers on two-hour, 20-mile, round-trip rides launched from Millville.

The boat gets as close as a couple of hundred yards from wildlife. Bring binoculars or use a pair provided onboard for close-up views of turtles and the occasional otter, beaver, fox, muskrat or deer, plus numerous osprey, egrets, bald eagles and their nests in this primitive watershed.

Captain Dave, now 80 and a great-grandfather, guarantees eagle sightings, or passengers get a future ride for free. “The Maurice River area has the largest concentration of bald eagles in South Jersey,” he points out, adding that, of all the trips he’s captained in nearly two decades, only one was eagle-less.

Starting May 17 and running through October, Captain Dave is once again offering Friday and Saturday daytime cruises and Wednesday sunset cruises. Charters can also be arranged. He narrates each voyage, pointing out historic riverside structures and offering entertaining stories about colorful local residents and Millville’s vibrant glass-manufacturing history. Reservations can be made by calling 856-327-1530.

Buy our April 2024 issue here . Cover photo: Bryan Anselm

Nature and water lovers can enjoy all three wild and scenic rivers and their environs in a variety of ways besides boating. Birders and hikers can experience stunning vistas of the Maurice River at the Maurice River Estuary Trail (1 Strawberry Avenue, Port Norris), Maurice River Bluffs Trail (1200 Silver Run Road, Millville), and Harold N. Peek Preserve (1400 S. Second Street, Millville).

Want to get your feet wet? Kayaking, canoeing and tubing can’t be beat for tranquility, escape and contemplation. Two Mays Landing businesses rent equipment and arrange rides along the Great Egg Harbor River. Palace Restaurant & Outfitters (6924 E. Black Horse Pike; 609-625-8552) is open starting at 9 am, Tuesday-Sunday, from early May through late September, and also offers riverside dining. The last van carrying adventurers (age 5 and up) to the river entranceway leaves the Palace at 3 pm. Bring insect repellent.

Those wishing to stay overnight just feet from the Great Egg Harbor River can rent one of three pet-friendly cabins offered by Palace Outfitters. The Winding River Campground (6752 Weymouth Road), also pet friendly, offers campsites for RVs and tents, plus two cabins and amenities such as a pool. For kayaking, canoeing and tubing, it opens at 9 am daily (last launch leaving at 2 pm) from May 1 through October 15. Paddlers and tubers are driven to the historic Weymouth Furnace site and finish up at the campground’s backyard.

[ RELATED : Where to Go Glamping in New Jersey: Sleep Under the Stars in Style ]

Historic spots to be explored near the Musconetcong River are Waterloo Village, Stanhope, Asbury and Finesville. Those with canoes, kayaks and tubes can put in at numerous points along the wild and scenic sections of the Delaware. Recommendation for tubers: Bring a short paddle to help you escape impediments like fallen tree trunks.

One thing explorers of New Jersey’s wild and scenic rivers are sure to discover: They are quite a contrast to the Turnpike!

Barbara Leap enjoys reading a book while blissfully tubing on the wild and scenic Great Egg Harbor River.

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NJ Private and Public Lunch and Dinner Cruises

Discover the top Lunch, Brunch, and Dinner Cruises (both public and chartered private party) in New Jersey.

These cruises offer exciting views of NYC skylines and the Jersey Shore river, bay, and ocean vistas while dining and dancing.

The cruises are within easy reach of most New Jersey residents and visitors staying at one of the many waterfront towns in NJ. Sailings depart from from Cape May, Jersey City, Perth Amboy, Point Pleasant, Toms river, and Weehawken.

Northern NJ Private and Public Lunch and Dinner Cruises

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America’s last authentic overnight steamboat

The legendary Delta Queen invites you aboard to experience a nostalgic return to America’s past!

Step aboard this historic vessel and into another century, when steam-powered paddleboats churned up and down the waterways of America. Adorned with teak handrails, Tiffany-style stained glass and crystal chandeliers, the Delta Queen’s grand decor exudes lavish Victorian charm.

The Delta Queen is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. She is also a National Historic Landmark, a member of the National Maritime Hall of Fame, and most recently designated a National Treasure by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Once the renovation process is complete, the Delta Queen will return to the waterways of America’s Heartland and Deep South, giving passengers the opportunity to experience the rivers from America’s only authentic 1927 overnight paddlewheel steamboat.

At this time, the historic vessel is securing resources to begin major renovations so she can once again invite passengers to relive the age of Mark Twain and his cast of river characters.

Don’t miss your chance to escape to an era of elegance and grandeur aboard the Delta Queen! Be the first to receive updates about the Delta Queen’s renovations and future sailings by signing up for updates here and following us on Facebook and Twitter .

Don’t miss the boat!

We appreciate your patience as the Delta Queen secures the necessary funds and resources to begin our extensive renovation process. We look forward to welcoming you aboard as soon as it’s possible to do so.

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Battleship NJ leaves Camden, embarks on historic journey

The battleship new jersey left camden on march 21, 2024. here's your guide to its journey to be dry docked at the philadelphia navy yard, by siobhan mcgirl and dan stamm • published march 2, 2024 • updated on march 21, 2024 at 7:55 pm, what to know.

• Residents in the Philadelphia area saw a rare site — a battleship floating down the Delaware River.
• The USS New Jersey began moving shortly after noon on Thursday, March 21, from its dock in Camden, New Jersey. It's headed to the Philadelphia Navy Yard for extensive maintenance work. The retired battleship will initially head to the Paulsboro Marine Terminal, where it will be balanced to prepare for dry docking, and will then go to the Navy Yard six days later.
• The maintenance work is expected to take about two months.

It was a sight to be seen from both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

America's most decorated battleship left its home on Camden's waterfront for the first time in decades. On Thursday, March 21, 2024, shortly after noon, the Battleship New Jersey began traveling down the Delaware River.

The ship arrived at Paulsboro Marine Terminal in Paulsboro, New Jersey, just before 4 p.m. for hull preparation. A week later, the historic ship will head to the Philadelphia Navy Yard for historic dry dock maintenance .

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"This battleship is just a tremendous piece of history," Battleship New Jersey CEO Marshall Spevak said. “This is a once in a generation opportunity really to see the ship move.”

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When did battleship nj depart.

The ship left from Camden on March 21 around high tide -- 12:10 p.m.

The museum hosted a free send-off ceremony on the Camden pier at 11 a.m.

It marked the first time the USS New Jersey has moved from Camden since she arrived in 2000.

"People are calling in telling us they are flying in from other parts of the country to be here on the 21st," Spevak said weeks before the move.

People even snagged up all the tickets for a lunchtime cruise on the Spirit of Philadelphia to witness the move from the water as it left from Penn's Landing in Philadelphia.

Before the Big J moved from her spot dominating Camden's waterfront, New Jersey State Police helicopters saluted from above. Then, ceremonial shots were fired from the ship herself.

People watching the historic moment snapped pictures and videos of America's most decorated battleship on the move.

One 13-year-old asked to be there as his birthday present and was totally in awe of the massive ship.

A stop in another part of New Jersey before arriving in Philly

Tug boats from McAllister Towing guided the ship past the Philly shipyard between 1:45 p.m. and 3 p.m. on March 21, according to the Navy Yard .

The ship will now spend six days at the Paulsboro Marine Terminal before making its way to Dry Dock 3 at the Philly shipyard.

When the ship moves from Paulsboro to Philly on March 27, four people will be on board after bidding thousands of dollars for the chance to cruise the Delaware on a piece of history.

The Battleship New Jersey will be dry docked for the first time in 32 years

According to Spevak, the $10 million dry dock project is long overdue. It is also vital for the battleship's longevity.

“Typically decommissioned navy ships are supposed to be dry docked every 20 years. We are almost at 35 now,” Spevak said.

The maintenance work in Philly is expected to take about 60 days. The battleship will return to Camden once the work is complete, but people will also have the chance to see the battleship in Philly. The museum is selling rare dry dock tours on the weekends, offering people the chance to walk underneath the battleship.

“I'm not sure when the next time an Iowa class battleship will be in dry dock," Spevak said. "That’s why we are saying it is really a once in a generation opportunity.”

"If you choose to come visit the Battleship New Jersey while in dry dock, we ask that you understand that the Navy Yard is an active business campus that is home to more than 150 businesses and 15,000 employees," the Navy Yard said on its website . "Please obey posted signage regarding parking and traffic."

And now, with this trip for much needed maintenance work, the museum says they are protecting its future by preserving it for generations to come.

What goes into moving an 887-foot-long 45,000-ton battleship?

The Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial was closed to tours in late February as crews prepared for the move.

In order for the battleship to fit under the Walt Whitman Bridge, they had to remove the mast and radar from the top of the ship.

"Even now at high tide we are about 11 to 16 feet clearing of the bridge so it is still a very tight space," explained Spevak.

Crews also removed the northern gangway from the ship. Contractors are coming on board to disable the electric, mechanicals, and plumbing.

"Right now our crew is starting to go and just sort of clear out a lot of the areas and batten down the hatches," Spevak said. "The wind, the weather, the tides- there’s just an incredible amount that goes into moving a ship like this especially a battleship, a decommissioned ship that hasn’t moved in decades."

A full circle moment for the man in charge of towing the Battleship New Jersey

The battleship is being towed by four tug boats.

“It’s what we call a dead ship. It doesn’t have propulsion. The tug boats will be operating in place of the ship’s engine and rudder," explained Joseph Benton, with McAllister Towing of Philadelphia.

Benton is leading the entire tow operation. It is a full circle moment for him. He captained one of the tug boats that originally brought the battleship to Camden.

"Full circle, for sure," Benton said. "To be able to come back 20 something years later and be able to be the pilot in charge of it, it is pretty awesome.”

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The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top River Cruise Lines
• The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
• Cruise Packing List Essentials
• The Top Cruise Insurance Plans

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

Watch CBS News

Battleship New Jersey moves to Paulsboro Marine Terminal for dry dock maintenance

By Jasmine Payoute, Nikki DeMentri, Scott Hezlep

Updated on: March 21, 2024 / 7:57 PM EDT / CBS Philadelphia

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The nation's most decorated battleship is on the move. The  Battleship New Jersey  took off Thursday for historic dry dock maintenance for the  first time in 30 years .

"It is historic! And I love it," Leo Kurth said while aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia. The 11-year-old drove 10 hours from North Carolina with his family to see history unfold on the Delaware River.

As part of that process, the battleship traveled south down the Delaware River to the Paulsboro Marine Terminal, where it was ballasted. The ballasting process allows water to be pumped in and out of the ballast tanks while at port, which is essential for safety during transit.

The Spirit of Philadelphia and Rendezvous both shadowed the New Jersey on its journey.

"We'll be within 200 feet of the Battleship New Jersey," Ryan O'Connor, General Manager of City Cruises, said.

Once the clock hit 12:10 p.m., the most decorated battleship officially departed Camden, heading south down the river.

Around 1 p.m., all traffic came to a halt on the Walt Whitman Bridge as the battleship traveled underneath. Next stop – Paulsboro Marine Terminal for minor maintenance.

"This is also a dedication from me to the ones that never made it home," Mike Coughlin, from Honesdale, said.

The ship will be repainted and thousands of parts replaced, but to make it about six miles to the Philadelphia Navy Yard, the Battleship will be pulled by four tugboats, which McAllister Towing will guide.

The Battleship NJ is heading down the river. @CBSPhiladelphia pic.twitter.com/yo0nZx6nL6 — Nikki DeMentri (@nikkidementri) March 21, 2024

The Battleship New Jersey will be at the Paulsboro Marine Terminal for a week. 

Later, on March 27, the  ship will depart for the Philadelphia Naval Yard , where it will remain for  dry dock work for about eight weeks .

"This is a once-in-a-generation thing. Ships that are inactive like this, and there are no more battleships active anywhere in the world, so it's very rare for one of them to move at all," Battleship New Jersey museum curator Ryan Szimanski said. "They only go to dry dock once every 20 years, maybe 30 years. So this is the first time in my lifetime that we're doing this and I'll be 60 or 70 years old before we do it again."

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Jasmine Payoute joined CBS News Philadelphia as a reporter in June 2021.

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New jersey first lady tammy murphy suspends her senate campaign to replace indicted sen. menendez.

Associated Press

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

FILE - New Jersey first lady Tammy Murphy speaks to delegates in Paramus, N.J., Monday, March 4, 2024. Murphy has suspended her U.S. Senate campaign to replace Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., as he faces federal corruption charges. Murphy announced her decision in a video posted to her social media on Sunday, March. Her decision to drop out likely clears the way for U.S. Rep. Andy Kim in the Democratic primary on June 4. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)

WASHINGTON – New Jersey first lady Tammy Murphy on Sunday suspended her U.S. Senate campaign to replace Democratic Sen. Robert Menendez as he faces federal corruption charges ,

Murphy said in a video posted to social media that winning the Democratic primary would require her to wage “a very divisive and negative campaign.”

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“With Donald Trump on the ballot and so much at stake for our nation, I will not in good conscience waste resources tearing down a fellow Democrat,” Murphy said.

Her decision to drop out probably clears the way for U.S. Rep. Andy Kim in the Democratic primary on June 4. Kim is mounting a more formidable challenge than is typical against a well-connected political figure in a state where connections count for a lot.

Menendez announced that he would not run in that primary but did not rule out seeking reelection as an independent.

Murphy, a first-time candidate, was running with the backing of influential Democratic figures. Kim has centered his campaign in part on upending the state’s unique ballot design , widely viewed as favoring candidates preferred by county party insiders.

“New Jersey’s next senator must focus on the issues of our time and not be mired in tearing others down while dividing the people of our party and state,” she said.

Kim, a mild-mannered three-term congressman, is perhaps best known for being photographed cleaning debris from the U.S. Capitol after the Jan. 6 insurrection. He won several state county committee votes, including in his and Murphy's home counties.

The stakes are high, with Democrats competing to hold on to their narrow control of the Senate.

Republicans have their own primary unfolding, featuring businessman Curtis Bashaw, Mendham Borough Mayor Christine Serrano Glassner and former TV news reporter Alex Zdan.

Menendez vehemently denies allegations that he and his wife accepted bribes of gold bars, cash and a luxury car from three favor-seeking New Jersey businessmen. The couple is scheduled to go on trial in May.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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