Victorian Princess

Docked at 1 State Street on Presque Isle Bay, the Victorian Princess is one of the few authentic paddle wheelers still in operation in the country. Built in La Crosse, Wisconsin in 1986 and originally christened The Rosie O'Shea, the vessel arrived in Erie in 1998 and was renamed the Victorian Princess. Current owner Duryea Gette purchased the boat in 2016 and has since invested roughly half a million dollars in infrastructure improvements. The three-level riverboat is certified to carry up to 120 passengers across its 107-foot hull. The enclosed first deck seats 72 for dinner service with buffet seating, a full-service bar, and two restrooms; the second deck accommodates 50 dining guests with its own bar; and the open-air third deck holds 45 for live music and Lake Erie views. A three-zone sound system with wireless microphones and five televisions round out the amenities. Beyond its regular sightseeing, dining, and happy hour cruises, the Victorian Princess hosts private and semi-private charters for weddings, corporate functions, school field trips, and social celebrations such as anniversaries, reunions, birthdays, and bar and bat mitzvahs. Private cruises accommodate 50 to 120 guests, while semi-private bookings — which include private bar or drink package options and access to the second deck — welcome up to 50. Menus range from casual buffets to multi-course dinners, with live music available for private events.