Nestled comfortably between Louisville and Lexington in the heart of Bourbon Country, Frankfort is a charming town that bourbon enthusiasts won’t want to miss. Known for housing three major bourbon distilleries, it’s a prime stop for anyone embarking on the famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail. With 46 distilleries scattered across six regions, Frankfort stands out as home to the renowned Buffalo Trace Distillery. While most people experience the trail via a good old-fashioned road trip, there’s another, more unique option: a bourbon boat tour. Kentucky River Tours offers the only boat-based bourbon tour in the country, making it a must-do activity for serious bourbon lovers.
Kentucky River Tours offers eight different boat tours, each providing a distinct experience for visitors. The tours vary from shorter, hour-and-a-half journeys filled with bourbon history dating back to 1775, to four-hour excursions that include a full tour of Buffalo Trace Distillery, complete with a visit to the gift shop. Some of the tours even include on-deck bourbon tastings, where guests can sip bourbon while taking in the beautiful scenery. And for those who prefer their bourbon mixed, a bartender on board can craft cocktails using the boat’s extensive selection of bottles. Owners Nathan and Allison Deppenbrock have been running Kentucky River Tours for over 40 years, but the bourbon boat tours have only been around for the last seven, combining two of the region’s biggest attractions: the Kentucky River and the iconic bourbon industry.
As you float along the river, the area’s rich history comes to life. Historic markers and remnants, such as the ruins of the Old Hermitage Distillery from 1868, are sprinkled along the riverbanks, giving visitors a tangible connection to the bourbon industry’s origins. The tours operate from April through October and range in price, with the Bourbon History Tour costing $19.95 and the premium Bourbon & Boats Tour, which features single-barrel tastings led by a bourbon expert, priced at $89.95. For those who aren’t as fond of bourbon, Kentucky River Tours also offers a Sunday afternoon history tour focused on Frankfort and the river’s past, as well as a scenic Sunset Cruise where you can relax with a drink and enjoy the view.
Kentucky River Tours uses two boats for their excursions. One is a 15-passenger skiff, perfect for smaller groups, while the other is a converted double-decker houseboat called the Bourbon Belle, which can seat nearly 50 people. Regardless of which boat you choose, every seat offers a great view. As you cruise down the river, keep an eye out for local wildlife, including herons, ospreys, bald eagles, and even turtles. The 450-million-year-old limestone cliffs that frame the river add another layer of awe to the experience, creating a perfect backdrop for a day spent on the water.
The combination of bourbon history and breathtaking natural beauty makes these boat tours an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado or just looking to take in the sights along the river, there’s something for everyone on this one-of-a-kind journey through the heart of Bourbon Country.
