When people think of taking a river cruise, Louisville, KY is typically not the first port that comes to mind. That’s all changing this year and American Cruise Lines is starting cruise getaways in 2026 and Viking River Cruises is starting in 2027.
But before you step onto the deck of your cruise ship, start your vacation with the historical charm of the Inn at Woodhaven. We’re more than just a place to rest your head—we’re your cozy home away from home!
Louisville as Your New Favorite Cruise Port
If you haven’t considered the riverways of the United States as a cruise option, you’re in for a treat. River cruises offer an intimate and immersive vacation experience that cannot be matched by large ocean liners.
Situated along the Ohio River, Louisville’s history is connected to the water. Although the heavy industry has disappeared, Louisville has lost none of its vibrancy and culture. When you walk along the river banks, you can still see the wealth once brought to the city by the Ohio River in the beautiful architecture and many waterfront parks.
These days, Louisville has become a major port for luxury river cruises that combine exploring America’s stunning rivers with interesting local excursions.
The Benefit of Sailing on a River Cruise
Cruising the waterways of the Ohio and Mississippi River means close-to-shore sailing with stunning nature to enjoy, river banks to admire, and towns or cities to explore.
Smaller ships also mean you’re more likely to enjoy a calmer and crowd-free cruise atmosphere, so that you can relax while sipping your mint juleps from your balcony in peace. If a balance between leisure and quality excursions at each port is what you seek, a river cruise is the perfect way to vacation.
Ohio River Cruises Louisville, KY
We get it, Louisville is far from an obvious choice when it comes to cruises. However, things are changing and the city is quickly becoming a hub for trips on the water!
These days, there are several river cruise companies to choose from, and each offers different packages. So, if you’re dreaming of sitting on a sundeck and sharing a good bottle of wine with your friends, consider Louisville for your next trip.
American Cruise Lines
As the only river cruise line that is fully American-owned and operated, this operator is a giant in the cruise industry, and for good reason! In 2025 alone, they received dozens of awards for their excellence and they continue to set the gold standard for river cruises.
American Cruise Lines’ Mississippi River Gateway Cruise takes you from New Orleans, Louisiana to Louisville, Kentucky, with stops in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and Memphis, Tennessee along the way.
You can also sail their Ohio River Cruise through America’s heartland, between Louisville and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and see the sights in Marietta, Cincinnati, and Wheeling.
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Viking River Cruises
As suggested by their name, Viking River Cruises has strong ties to Norway and wears its heritage on its sleeve. While their elegant longships no longer set out to discover new places, they are still clearly inspired by their Scandinavian heritage.
With a wide range of destinations on offer, Viking cruises arrive in Louisville from many different directions such as Pittsburgh or Memphis, Tennessee.
Viking River Cruises is expected to start operations in 2027 so check out their schedule if this sounds exciting.
Relive the Past on the Historic Belle
If you’re looking for a shorter trip, then Louisville has several shorter cruise options available. History buffs will enjoy a tour on the Mary M Miller or the historic Belle of Louisville, the last remaining authentic Mississippi river steamer.
The moment you step on board this century-old steamer, you’ll feel history all around you. Originally called Idlewild, this vessel was built in the early 1900s and was originally used to ferry people from Memphis, Tennessee to West Memphis, Arkansas. These days, however, it’s much more than just a boat!
The historic Belle of Louisville offers fun for the whole family and even offers special activities for kids of all ages. For a little under 2 hours, your kids can experience the magic of the Ohio River and learn about life on the river as people once lived it.
Don’t think of this as just a history lesson, though! There is plenty of more ‘present’ entertainment to make sure your kids will love their time aboard!
Why Cruise Passengers Choose Us
For years, visitors have combined a trip on the water with a stay at the Inn at Woodhaven. Whether you want to start or end your boat trip here, there are plenty of reasons why you should consider us as a safe harbor before or after setting off!
What makes the Inn at Woodhaven your perfect place to stay before your departure or as your final destination?
- Stress-free proximity: The Inn is located less than 15-minutes away from Louisville’s Waterfront Park and the downtown river docks. We’ll be happy to give you directions!
- Unbeatable breakfast: Sure, dining is great but what about the start of your day? Our made-to-order breakfast includes fresh organic fruit, cage-free eggs, and locally sourced baked goods. Don’t miss out on our guest-favorite Caramel French Toast before you leave!
- Matching elegance: Skip the generic and enjoy luxurious and thoughtful comforts from start to finish on your vacation. From custom European mattresses, to soaking tubs and newly-remodeled showers, we strive to delight you with details at every turn.
You will find that each room offers a unique and special experience. Book early to get your favorite restful retreat space!
Sip the Bourbon Trail Before You Set Sail
No pre-cruise (or post-cruise) stay at the Inn at Woodhaven would be complete without visiting the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. In addition to our own extensive bourbon collection and bourbon-tasting packages, we’re happy to recommend some of our favorite distilleries in the area.
Distilleries Near the Inn
Rabbit Hole Distillery is one of our favorite locations, only 10 minutes away from our doorstep in the NuLu District. With stunning architecture and small-batch distilling, it’s a site that will please your senses. Don’t leave without grabbing a bottle of their five-grain double chocolate malt for your suitcase.
Evan Williams Bourbon is located on Whiskey Row and is just steps from the riverfront where your cruise will depart. In operation since 1783, they’re one of the oldest distilleries on the trail and a piece of Louisville history. Their chic urban loft bar will happily make you a cocktail, pour you a flight, or serve it straight on the rocks.
Distilleries Worth the Drive
Heaven Hill Bourbon is worth making time for in your itinerary. Located approximately 55 minutes from the Inn in Bardstown. The distillery is massive and welcomes daily tours where you can experience the whiskey-making process first-hand. They’re a multi-award winning distillery and once you taste it you’ll know why.
Maker’s Mark Distillery is located approximately 75 minutes from the Inn in Loretto. It is a National Historic Landmark site and one of the most scenic distillery settings in Louisville. As one of the biggest and most well-known brands on the trail, no trail passport is truly complete without paying them a visit.
Plan Your Louisville Pre- or Post-Cruise Stay
Whether you’re arriving in Louisville early to experience the bourbon trail or finishing your cruise with a tour of Louisville’s famous Churchill Downs, the Inn at Woodhaven offers you the personalized hospitality to ensure your river cruise vacation is unforgettable.
Grab your space on American Cruise Lines’ popular new routes and then book your pre-cruise or post-cruise stay with us. Find the room that fits your personality and let us personally welcome you to the Inn at Woodhaven. You’ll soon see why we’re one of the top-rated bed and breakfasts in the United States.
While we look forward to hearing all the stories of your past or upcoming adventures, we do urge you to plan ahead. The Inn is an incredibly popular spot and tends to book up, especially during the Derby or during the summer months.
We look forward to meeting you!
