Padelford Mississippi Riverboats
Padelford Riverboats operates a historic fleet of Mississippi River paddlewheel boats offering sightseeing cruises, dining cruises, themed events, and private charters in St. Paul, Minnesota. Each vessel in our fleet is designed to deliver an authentic river cruising experience while providing modern comforts, safety features, and spacious seating for guests of all ages.
Our riverboats vary in size, capacity, and onboard amenities, making it easy to choose the right boat for public cruises, school field trips, corporate events, weddings, and private celebrations. From classic paddlewheel sterns to open-air observation decks, every boat showcases the charm and tradition of Mississippi River travel.
Explore the history, specifications, maximum capacity, dimensions, and unique features of each vessel below. Together, our fleet has welcomed more than five million passengers, creating unforgettable riverfront memories along the Mississippi for generations of locals and visitors alike.
What Makes the Padelford Fleet Unique
Padelford Riverboats proudly operates one of the most iconic and recognizable fleets on the Upper Mississippi River. Our vessels are purpose-built for river cruising in Minnesota, balancing historical authenticity with modern upgrades that enhance comfort and safety.
Key features across our fleet include:
- Authentic paddlewheel designs inspired by classic Mississippi River steamboats
- Climate-controlled interior seating and open-air decks
- Onboard restrooms and ADA-accessible areas on select vessels
- Flexible layouts for sightseeing cruises, dining cruises, and private events
- Experienced captains and crews with deep knowledge of the river
Whether you’re enjoying a relaxing sightseeing cruise or hosting a private event, our fleet offers a uniquely Minnesotan way to experience the Mississippi River.
The Padelford Riverboat Fleet
Jonathan Padelford
As one of the few truly authentic sternwheelers on the Mississippi River, this all-steel vessel is named after the 10th great maternal grandfather of Capt. William D. Bowell, Sr., founder of Padelford Riverboats.
Anson Northrup
This vessel was named after the Minnesota pioneer who operated one of the first boats above St. Anthony Falls.
Betsey Northrup
Mostly used for our public Sightseeing Cruises, the Betsey Northrup has limited availability for private charters in June, July & August.
Anson & Betsey
The Betsey Northrup can be combined with the Anson Northrup to create a huge vessel with a capacity of 500 passengers and crew.
Choosing the Right Riverboat for Your Event
Each Padelford riverboat serves a different purpose, allowing us to offer a wide variety of cruise experiences on the Mississippi River.
When selecting a riverboat, consider:
- Guest count and seating capacity
- Indoor vs. outdoor deck preferences
- Dining, bar service, or entertainment needs
- Accessibility requirements
- Time of year and cruise type
Our team is happy to help match you with the best vessel for your cruise, ensuring a smooth and memorable experience from boarding to disembarkation.
Gift Certificates, Season Passes & Promotions
Looking for a unique Minnesota gift experience? Padelford Riverboats gift certificates make it easy to give unforgettable moments on the Mississippi River. Perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, and special occasions, gift certificates can be used toward sightseeing cruises, dining cruises, themed events, and more. Season passes and special offers are also available for guests who want to enjoy the river all season long.
