ABOUT THE SPECIAL EVENT

The special event is to commemorate the 20^th year anniversary of the keel laying of the Showboat Branson Belle.  It will commence on March 1, 2013 at 1800 UTC and continue through March 3, 2013 1800 UTC. The event will be operated from the Wheelhouse of the Showboat. All contacts, for a nominal fee, will be provided a confirmation certificate suitable for hanging.
 

CAPTAIN'S FACTS

 Showboats, long the theme of romantic legend and lore, first appeared in the early 1800s.  Noted for their  opulence and beauty, these majestic floating palaces brought culture and extraordinary entertainment from the big cities to America’s wide country and provided a livelihood for many families in towns along the river. 

Dedicated to the riverboat adventurers of yesteryear, the Showboat Branson Bell recreates this era with pride, returning to a period in American history full of adventure and river romance.
 

GREAT BANANA LAUNCH

On August 12, 1994, the Showboat Branson Belle traveled 140 feet from its shoreline shipyard into the waters of Table Rock Lake during the nationally publicized Great Banana Launch Watch Party.  2 tons of bananas, acting as a biodegradable natural lubricant,  packed the launching rails to glide the massive football-field sized ship into the water.   She traveled 14 mph during the launch -- faster than she will ever travel in water.