The Pride of the Susquehanna Offers Unique Experiences

The Pride of the Susquehanna is an experience straight out of a Mark Twain novel that awaits you. Annville Inn Guests love taking a 30-minute trip over to City Island in the middle of the Susquehanna River in Harrisburg.

One of Only Six Authentic Paddle-wheel Boats in the USA

Looking to explore the stunning scenery of the Susquehanna River?  Let us book you on “The Pride of the Susquehanna” – an authentic stern-driven paddle-wheel riverboat. With its wooden decks and striking red and white hull, this riverboat takes you back to a slower, more relaxing era, yet one still alive today thanks to this incredible riverboat experience.

Your Experience On The Pride of the Susquehanna

As you cruise down the river, you will be awestruck by the picturesque views of the riverbanks and the abundant wildlife – from soaring eagles and herons to playful otters and mink. The spacious upper deck offers the perfect vantage point to soak it all in, while the lower deck boasts a cozy interior with comfortable seating and large windows.   Rosalie, your Innkeeper can book you or you can call for reservations. Be prepared for a memorable trip along one of the most beautiful waterways in America! Effort that has become a regional economic, educational, and community engine that enhances life in Central Pennsylvania.

The Pride of the Susquehanna Updated Summer 2025 Information

Some schedules, events and dates will vary from what is shown below. Availability depends upon navigation conditions of the river. As of June 26, the river is too high to navigate due to months of rain both locally and upstream. Coast Guard boat regulations, Coast Guard authorized captains and other variables also affect dates. This blog gives you an idea of the incredible experiences that may be available on The Pride of the Susquehanna as summer rolls along. Please call for availability beginning mid July: 717.234.6500.

Day Tours Aboard The Pride of the Susquehanna

45 Minute Public Sightseeing

Sign up for this 45-minute sightseeing tour and experience the refreshing summer breeze. You can admire the scenic views through the large windows in the beautiful main salon, which is air-conditioned to keep you comfortable. Visit the galley to grab a soda, or some snacks to enjoy. Don’t miss the opportunity to get up close to one of only six authentic paddlewheel riverboats in the United States.

During the cruise, you’ll hear a recording that shares fascinating details about the unique history and ecology of the Susquehanna River and Harrisburg.  The main salon is decorated with pictures and relics that showcase the rich history of Harrisburg. Take advantage of the upper deck, where you can take in the breathtaking skyline while feeling the summer breeze and observing beautiful wildlife.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening under the stars, a lively party or just quiet relaxation…or nature and history emersion, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes.

Your Itinerary

Annville Inn’s Guests love awakening in their luxurious Guest Room, and following the wafting delicious scent of breakfast in one of three dining rooms.  Once seated, they rave about Rosalie’s Candlelit Breakfasts!  Many then take a swim in the pool or wander through our three acres of botanical gardens, including the Main Rose Garden with nearly 600 roses.  Then, they take a short drive over to City Island to board our area’s famous paddleboat, where they get ready to make more memories to last a lifetime!

Specialty Cruises offered by The Pride of the Susquehanna

While the Daily Tours are always fun, you might enjoy specialty cruises. These cruises happen on certain nights, such as “Fridays…”  “Wednesdays…”, etc. 

Summer 2025’s river boat schedule is not yet complete. We are showing what has been offered in the past. We know many of these will continue in 2025. Call the number shown above for exact programming, which can change from week to week.

We have had Guests extend their stay in order to take in the Jazz cruise or one of these other fabulous experiences:

Jazzin’ on the Pride

Two Hours – Thursdays, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Enjoy the beauty of the Susquehanna River while relaxing to live Jazz music performed by talented musicians on Thursday evenings.

Murder Mystery Dinner Cruise

Solve the mystery! • Fridays 7 – 9 p.m., 07/11, 07/25, 08/01, 08/15.

You solve the crime! Become an amateur detective during this fun 2-hour cruise along the Susquehanna River. If you’re looking for a little intrigue on the water, a Murder Mystery Dining Cruise is just for you. An entertaining event will unfold around you as professional actors perform “a whodunnit skit” Murder Mystery show live. Guests are encouraged to uncover clues and compare notes with other guests. As a result of this collaboration, the guest who figures out “whodunit” leaves with a Murder Mystery prize of the evening! This is a perfect evening of murder and mayhem and fun for all!

Senior Mondays

Select Mondays 07/28, and 08/25, 4 – 6 p.m.

For community members 60+ and older. Cruises will feature drink specials and on occasion, special entertainment, lectures, bingo, music and more.

Sunset Dinner Cruising on The Pride of the Susquehanna

Multiple dinner options  • Two Hours, 7 – 9 p.m. on 07/29, 08/20

Take a breathtaking 2-hour cruise along the Susquehanna River while enjoying a delicious 3-course dinner. Enjoy the ambiance of our elegant wood, brass, and copper-adorned climate-controlled salon. Equally enjoyable, this is a wonderful way to see the river sights in a unique and memorable way.  Delicious meals, fully detailed on the Pride of Susquehanna Website.

Sips on the Susquehanna

6 – 8 p.m. on 07/23 and 09/10

Join knowledgeable and experienced Beer Guides from Brewery Tours, LLC, as they depart Harrisburg aboard the historic Pride of the Susquehanna for a 2-hour cruise, featuring guided craft beer tastings together with a souvenir tasting glass, snacks, and more!

Every Sips on the Susquehanna is unquestionably a unique experience.