River Barging: America’s Heartland

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Cruise from St. Louis to Peoria and back again on this relaxing ramble through the heart of the country. Along the way you’ll explore the Gateway Arch, pass through numerous impressive river locks and visit a reconstructed village where Abraham Lincoln spent his early years. All meals and amenities are included on this relaxing river journey. Come on along!

Barge Tours Pricing Includes:

ALL Meals, Snacks, Coffee, Soda
ALL Gratuities (No Tipping)
ALL Tax and Port Charges
ALL Scheduled Shore Activities
Onboard WWCT Representatives
Nightly Regional Entertainment

View the R/B River Explorer

Tour Highlights

Explore the sights, sounds and landmarks of sensational St. Louis, including an exciting ride to the top of the renowned Gateway Arch.
Visit New Salem State Historic Site, and see an authentic reconstruction of the village where Abraham Lincoln lived.
Tour the Caterpillar Facility and watch the assembly of a tractor from start to finish.

Early Booking Bonus:

Receive $100 in Barge Bucks per stateroom when you reserve by March 10, 2009!

2009 Dates and Pricing

September 10-17 (Book now only a few spaces available)

Price Per Person:

Royal Deck
Double: $2,779
Single: $3,475

Platinum Deck (includes balcony)
Double: $2,959
Single: $3,695

All Meals Included

Depart/Return: St. Louis, Missouri

Pre/Post-Tour Hotel: $128/night Sheraton at Westport Plaza

Fun Excursion for Early Birds!
Pre-Tour Optional Excursion: Show up early (by 8:30 AM) on our first day…and enjoy an optional Anheuser Busch Brewery Tour! Price: $38 per person.

Itinerary

Day 1—St. Louis: Our river barging adventure begins in the “Gateway to the West”—St. Louis! Meet your fellow travelers at a tasty lunch, then explore the Gateway Arch, the tallest monument in the United States. Visit the Museum of Westward Expansion, the Jefferson Memorial and the Old Cathedral. Later, let’s board the River Explorer!

Day 2—Grafton: We’ll kick off our journey with a passage through Lock 27, then make our way through the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers before passing through Mel Price Lock.

When we reach the Illinois River we’ll dock in the quaint, river port of Grafton. Enjoy a scenic drive of historic Alton, known for its stunning bluffs and Victorian homes and charming shops.

Day 3— Havana: Delight in picturesque views from atop the Sky Deck as we pass through LaGrange Lock. An early evening arrival in Havana, where we’ll stay overnight, gives you time to ride on a vintage-style trolley or stroll along the scenic riverfront.

Day 4—Havana: Start the day at Dickson Mounds State Museum and discover awe-inspiring artifacts and art created through the centuries. Visit Lincoln’s New Salem State Historic Site to see a reconstruction of the village where he spent early adulthood. We’ll cruise up river this evening.

Day 5—Peoria: Today we turn around near LaSalle and Peru. Indulge in on-board amenities like a calming hot tub soak or a delicious dinner as we head back down the Illinois to Peoria for an overnight stay.

Day 6—Peoria: Tour the Caterpillar Plant and see the assembly of a tractor from start to finish! Plus enjoy a city tour that includes breathtaking views of the bluffs on Grand View Drive. We’ll pass through Peoria Lock later this evening.

Day 7—Barging: This morning we pass through LaGrange Lock and the day is yours to relax and enjoy as you please. Visit the Guest Pilot House where you can listen in on our captain and passing vessels.

Later, we’ll enter the mighty Upper Mississippi and pass through Mel Price Lock.

Day 8—St. Louis: Begin the day with an early passage through Lock 27 on our way back to St. Louis. Enjoy an informative city tour before heading home with relaxing memories of your fun-filled river adventure.