Riverboat Twilight
Riverboat Twilight
5
Full view
About
Our signature Two Day overnight cruise available June through October departing from LeClaire IA. All day cruises available departing from Dubuque IA through out August, September and October. Saturday Sightseeing Cruises departing LeClaire IA at - 11AM - 1:30PM - 4PM Memorial Day through August.
Le Claire, Iowa
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2023
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listingSimilar Experiences
Riverboat Twilight
Booking unavailable on Tripadvisor
Want other options you can book now?
Show optionsTravelers talk about
(86 reviews)
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
569 reviews
Excellent
522
Very good
37
Average
7
Poor
3
Terrible
0
NeverKidaKidder
Indianapolis, IN8 contributions
Jun 2021 • Family
My eight-year-old daughter and I had a fabulous time aboard the Riverboat Twilight. It was fun to share meals in the beautiful interior of the boat, and as vegetarians, we appreciated the way that the chef made sure we had plant-based meal options. The crew was professional, friendly, attentive, and fun to talk with, as was the captain. The captain allowed my daughter to come up to the pilot’s box and even let her put her hands on the steering wheel and steer the ship for a second.
The stretch of river that we traveled was between LeClaire and Dubuque, and we saw a beautiful windmill, several bald eagles, lots of pelicans and seagulls and cormorants, many natural banks full of lovely trees, barges and tugs, and several river towns. There were plenty of chairs on the decks—some in the sun and some in the shade—and many rocking chairs with cushioned seats which were very comfortable as well.
By far, the highlight of the trip for us was meeting the other passengers on board. We made friends with several other travelers, and we will keep in touch after the voyage. The stories and conversations we shared are memories we will treasure. Many were interested in playing games with us, and overall we just had a blast!
LeClaire is an adorable little river town, and Dubuque is a true gem. We highly recommend riding the Fenelon Elevator if you take the overnight trip and are able to stay in Dubuque for the evening. Also, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is just fantastic. Highly recommend!
It’s all just a lot of fun, and the commentary shared by the captain taught us so much about flora, fauna, other boats, locks, and the Mississippi river in general. My daughter especially loved it when the calliope would play on board.
Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars, and a camera with a zoom lens!
The stretch of river that we traveled was between LeClaire and Dubuque, and we saw a beautiful windmill, several bald eagles, lots of pelicans and seagulls and cormorants, many natural banks full of lovely trees, barges and tugs, and several river towns. There were plenty of chairs on the decks—some in the sun and some in the shade—and many rocking chairs with cushioned seats which were very comfortable as well.
By far, the highlight of the trip for us was meeting the other passengers on board. We made friends with several other travelers, and we will keep in touch after the voyage. The stories and conversations we shared are memories we will treasure. Many were interested in playing games with us, and overall we just had a blast!
LeClaire is an adorable little river town, and Dubuque is a true gem. We highly recommend riding the Fenelon Elevator if you take the overnight trip and are able to stay in Dubuque for the evening. Also, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium is just fantastic. Highly recommend!
It’s all just a lot of fun, and the commentary shared by the captain taught us so much about flora, fauna, other boats, locks, and the Mississippi river in general. My daughter especially loved it when the calliope would play on board.
Don’t forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars, and a camera with a zoom lens!
Written June 5, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for your detailed review and comments. We really appreciate you letting us know how how our hard work and attention to details make the difference.
We hope to see you again soon! Cheers!
Written June 7, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ted W
Iowa City, IA17 contributions
Sep 2022
What a relaxing two days on the Twilight. We ate and ate and ate. Staff served meals at your table and snacks were buffet style. Coffee, tea, lemonade was available at all times.
We drew a rainy coldish two days, but big windows let us enjoy most all of the sights on the river. The captain did some narration about sights and history along the river, IMHO, did this just the right amount of time. So the PA was not in your ear too much. His insights from 40 years of river boating were brief, to the point and very interesting.
Questions from us were welcome.
Although we chose not go listen, there was an entertainment hour or so each day with a talented singer/ guitarist.
We stayed in 1st class accommodations in Dubuque very close to the boat and the really cool Mississippi River museum (which is included in your ticket). Shuttle was available to go anywhere downtown from the boat.
The boat is beautiful motor driven replica of an old 3 level paddle wheeler.
The stairs are narrow and small in width. So any major mobility issues should remain on 1st level with the bathrooms and no steps.
The staff were assigned to your floor level and were around all the time. Great kids.
Bathrooms were on lower level. they were clean and well sized.
Food was a nice combination of of beef, pork, chicken, and Turkey all served at specific meals with salads, fresh crisp cooked veggies, a potato, and really yummy deserts.
Wonderful way to kick back for two days and paddle up and down the Mississippi River. FYI, wifi was excellent and Verizon reception good 90% of the time.
We drew a rainy coldish two days, but big windows let us enjoy most all of the sights on the river. The captain did some narration about sights and history along the river, IMHO, did this just the right amount of time. So the PA was not in your ear too much. His insights from 40 years of river boating were brief, to the point and very interesting.
Questions from us were welcome.
Although we chose not go listen, there was an entertainment hour or so each day with a talented singer/ guitarist.
We stayed in 1st class accommodations in Dubuque very close to the boat and the really cool Mississippi River museum (which is included in your ticket). Shuttle was available to go anywhere downtown from the boat.
The boat is beautiful motor driven replica of an old 3 level paddle wheeler.
The stairs are narrow and small in width. So any major mobility issues should remain on 1st level with the bathrooms and no steps.
The staff were assigned to your floor level and were around all the time. Great kids.
Bathrooms were on lower level. they were clean and well sized.
Food was a nice combination of of beef, pork, chicken, and Turkey all served at specific meals with salads, fresh crisp cooked veggies, a potato, and really yummy deserts.
Wonderful way to kick back for two days and paddle up and down the Mississippi River. FYI, wifi was excellent and Verizon reception good 90% of the time.
Written September 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for such a thorough review! It truly helps our future passengers get a sense of what to expect onboard the Twilight. We appreciate your attention to detail!
Relaxation is what the trip is all about and it seems like you were able to do just that.
Thank you again for your time and I hope you're able to travel with us again in the future!
Written September 20, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Scott M
Sun Prairie, WI22 contributions
Jun 2021
Our tour company, Tom's Christian Tours, brought a group of 50+ (twice) in June for the two day cruise from Le Claire to Dubuque and back. From the time we started making plans, Carrie and Thomas in the office, made setting up our tour easy. Whenever we had a question, they quickly responded with the answer. Once at the riverboat, our luggage was whisked away and everyone was given plenty of opportunities to enjoy the cruise up the Mississippi River. Captain Kevin gave interesting narrative as we traveled, the crew made sure everyone was satisfied, and the food was delicious. (which included meals and mid morning and afternoon snacks). Once in Dubuque, those going on tours were directed one way while those heading to our hotel (Hotel Julien :) !) were taken there. Our overnight accommodations were beautiful and the morning shuttles were efficient. Our trip down river was just as enjoyable as the day before, with plenty of room inside and outside with comfortable seating and views. Everything was perfect. The owners and staff of the Riverboat Twilight were professional, kind and hospitable. They certainly made this tour easy for our company to set up and for all to enjoy. Thank you Riverboat Twilight!
Written August 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We appreciate your feedback and are happy to hear your group had a great trip.
Thanks so much for joining us!
Cheers!
Written August 9, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Riverexplorer
Louisville, KY6 contributions
Aug 2021 • Friends
There simply is not a better way to experience the Upper Mississippi River out there. The Riverboat Twilight offers a great all around product of education, entertainment, and a crew who cannot be beat. The arrangements for the land portion of the tour are carried out in such a fashion that they are seamless. The ability to relax while you travel makes it all the more special.
Then there is the food. You can’t go hungry on this boat. The quality and presentation are amazing.
The narration is full of facts and information that make the scenery come alive. You find yourself fascinated with wildlife and scenery you take for granted in your everyday life for good reason. You have time to relax and enjoy it for a change.
I’ve done the overnight cruises on the big boats several times and find the combination of amenities the Twilight offers to be way superior. The big boats take you away from the river to learn about it in theatres with no windows. On the Twilight, you learn while you watch it happen. It’s live and ever present.
This is my 3rd cruise with them and you probably expect me to say I’ll be back, and I will! This cruise is worth double the fare charged!
Then there is the food. You can’t go hungry on this boat. The quality and presentation are amazing.
The narration is full of facts and information that make the scenery come alive. You find yourself fascinated with wildlife and scenery you take for granted in your everyday life for good reason. You have time to relax and enjoy it for a change.
I’ve done the overnight cruises on the big boats several times and find the combination of amenities the Twilight offers to be way superior. The big boats take you away from the river to learn about it in theatres with no windows. On the Twilight, you learn while you watch it happen. It’s live and ever present.
This is my 3rd cruise with them and you probably expect me to say I’ll be back, and I will! This cruise is worth double the fare charged!
Written August 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your great review - awesome to hear you've been on the boat 3 times!
Captain Kevin is well-versed on all things river.
Thanks so much for joining us! We look forward to hosting you again!
Cheers!
Written August 13, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
louisea693
Champaign, IL4 contributions
Aug 2020
Loved the leisurely pace of the boat on the river, and all the interesting information given by the guide. You could tell he wasn't just reading from a script, he commented on actual craft we saw along the way, and various wildlife. It was a beautiful day and a relaxing interlude. Adored the oversized padded rocking chairs on deck!
Written August 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your great feedback and we hope you'll come join us again, it's even better twice!
Written August 13, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Chad G
1 contribution
Aug 2021 • Couples
We took the day trip from Dubuque to Gutenberg and back. Everything was perfect. The captain’s narration was interesting and informative. The food was excellent and so were the drinks. It was nice to get off the boat and explore Gutenberg for an hour. The live music during the cruise back down the river was enjoyable and fitting for the trip. I would recommend this to trip to people of all ages that enjoy the river, history, good food or just simply relaxing.
Written August 17, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Great to hear from you and thanks for joining us!
Captain Kevin knows his stuff.
All the best and we hope to see you again.
Cheers!
Written September 8, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kim C
1 contribution
Jul 2021
If you are looking to take a river cruise this is the one to take.
Our 2 day cruise was so relaxing The owners and staff thought of every detail to make this a stress free trip from taking your luggage before you board and driving to the hotel where it was waiting for you in your room to dining on excellent home cooked meals.
The captain narrated along the way with stories of river history and pointing out sites along the way. We saw a lot of bald eagles, a couple of their nests. We went through 2 channel locks.
The trip up and down he river was so relaxing that you almost couldnt help closing your eyes for a bit. We talked with many folks from all walks of life.
We were absolutely pleased with this trip from start to finish.
Our 2 day cruise was so relaxing The owners and staff thought of every detail to make this a stress free trip from taking your luggage before you board and driving to the hotel where it was waiting for you in your room to dining on excellent home cooked meals.
The captain narrated along the way with stories of river history and pointing out sites along the way. We saw a lot of bald eagles, a couple of their nests. We went through 2 channel locks.
The trip up and down he river was so relaxing that you almost couldnt help closing your eyes for a bit. We talked with many folks from all walks of life.
We were absolutely pleased with this trip from start to finish.
Written July 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Awesome to hear, thanks for sharing!
We appreciate your feedback and are happy to hear you had a great trip.
Thanks so much for joining us!
Written July 22, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Patty R.
6 contributions
Oct 2020 • Couples
This was an excellent trip. Very relaxing sitting in the rocking chairs, nice breeze, watching the water pass by. Captain Kevin is very informative, sharing his knowledge of the history of the Mississippi River. I highly recommend the two-day trip. It was fun to tour the City of Dubuque, the oldest city in Iowa, and see the river from high above. Beautiful homes, churches, shops, breweries, and museums. Something for everyone. The food was great and the crew was very friendly and accommodating. Looking forward to my next trip on the Riverboat Twilight.
Written October 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks so much for sharing your experience! So glad you enjoyed what are always our intentions.
Hope to see you gain next year!
Written October 16, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Todd B
Weston, WI3 contributions
Jul 2021
We took a 1 1/2 tour trip aboard the Twilight today with the family. Being from hometown LeClaire and a past employee of the Twilight I had to get back aboard for my families first time on the Mississippi river. The crew was awesome and Captain Kevin gave a well informed narrative of the Mississippi River and the area as we went up river and back. I highly recommend Riverboat Twilight for a relaxing trip on the river. for their sightseeing or 2 day trips. Thank you for my family weekend where memories were made.
Written August 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We are so happy to hear about your trip!
Thanks for the kind words and we appreciate you joining us!
Cheers!
Written August 13, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Corey H
Denver, CO2 contributions
Oct 2020
Love this cruise, so relaxing and smooth, even though the day was windy and cool, our party still had a great time onboard. The stories that the Captain told as we went up and down the river, added so much to the experience. HIs knowledge of the river is very apparent. The leaves were still beautiful too.
Written October 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
does boat accommodate handicapped ?
Approx cost for two [ one handicapped] on 2 day ?
Traveling alone,what is cost for single?
Mae45
Davenport, IA45 contributions
Prices are listed on the Riverboat Twilight website.
When I is your last 2 day trip this year. What is the cost for 2 seniors?
bird4345
Tipton, IN55 contributions
Their website will have this information.
Are service dogs allowed on board?
Carrie C
Le Claire, IA14 contributions
Dear Jason,
Thank you for your question. Yes, we welcome licensed service animals on all of our cruises. If you would like more information regarding our policies please feel free to contact us directly.
Frugalmama57
Warren, IN1,115 contributions
What are the hours for breakfast at Tony Roma's and what time does the complimentary shuttle leave Grand Harbor Resort to tour Dubuque?
Loves_to_travel1955
Des Plaines, IL34 contributions
The shuttle is a 8 passenger bus that is parked in front of the hotel. You just tell the driver you're on the Twilight cruise and she'll take you where ever you want to go. She took us to the famous Fenelon Place elevator. Then gave us her card and number so we could call and she would pick us up later. We did this after dinner. The next morning we walked to the Aquarium and museum and did that tour. You must be back on the boat by 10:45am.
Frugalmama57
Warren, IN1,115 contributions
About how many people are on board for the two day cruise?
Loves_to_travel1955
Des Plaines, IL34 contributions
They were half full, about 46 people. Which was perfect. At full capacity they can handle 100. It's a wonderful cruise to see fall colors.
donnacN7209CH
Hales Corners, WI11 contributions
What should we carry with us on the boat?
janice04272017
Lincoln, NE32 contributions
If you plan to be in the sun, bring sun screen and a hat. A jacket to remove as the day gets warmer. If you want to read a book, there are plenty of seats, both inside and outside. There are even lounging chairs. They have cards, card games and board games available on second floor that you can bring to your floor. Ask your server - The personnel are wonderful! Nice relaxing time.
BeachBadger2
Lombard, IL39 contributions
This looks cool, but very expensive for one night...did you feel it was a good value? And - are there coupon codes?
kkelly3501
Michigan City, IN2 contributions
The value was excellent. I took the two day cruise and for $400, I had 2 days on the boat which included breakfast, lunch and dinner on the first day, overnight in a first rate hotel in Dubuque, breakfast in the hotel restaurant the next morning, a free shuttle to several points of interest in Dubuque that morning and free admission to the museum and aquarium in Dubuque. The second day on the boat we also had lunch and dinner. The food was excellent and plentiful and in addition to meals we also had 2 snacks each day. Entertainment was provided on the boat along with an interesting and educational commentary from the caption while we travelled. The value was excellent and I will definitely be back for a return trip.