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Emerald Queen Casino Paddlewheeler
Northwest Yachtnet invites you aboard a truly unique new listing—the classic 300-foot-long paddlewheeler that once housed the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma.
For the Broker’s Best section, we pride ourselves for covering a wide variety of used sail and powerboats available in the Pacific Northwest. This month, however, may be one of the first times we have featured one that is nearly 300 feet long, has more than 70,000 square feet of space on four decks, weighs 400 tons, and is big enough to comfortably accommodate 2,000 guests. Oh, and it’s also powered by a giant wooden stern wheel instead of a propeller.
Behold the Emerald Queen , the former floating gambling palace that had been moored at the Blair Waterway on the Tacoma waterfront for the last 25 years as part of the Emerald Queen Casino, owned by the Puyallup Tribe of Indians.
Built in 1995 by Louisiana-based Quality Shipyard and Kehl River Boats at a cost of $15 million, the steel Emerald Queen was designed to look like the classic paddlewheel riverboats that used to ply the waters of the Mississippi River in the 19 th century. Balustraded exterior walkways and lush interior amenities evoke the buildings of the French Quarter in New Orleans. The grande dame made her way from Houma, Louisiana, to Tacoma in 1997, not under her own power but towed on a barge by the Northwest tugboat Drew Foss , on a month-long journey south across the Gulf of Mexico, through the Panama Canal, and up the West Coast to Puget Sound.
But after its gamble paid off with many years in the casino business, the Puyallup Tribe knew when to hold ‘em, knew when to fold ‘em and retired the vessel as a casino in 2004. The ship is now moored next to Tacoma’s “Firecracker Alley” and is up for sale by the Tribe. The boat’s total interior space measures more than 70,000 square feet (23,400 square feet for the casino; 25,320 square feet for the lounge) and can be accessed by three gangways to the second deck and one gangway to the main deck.
The boat is equipped with two elevators: one 3,500-pound-capacity passenger elevator forward and a 10,000-pound-capacity freight elevator aft. The most striking interior feature, however, is the opulent forward grand staircase, which connects three decks inside an open atrium lit by a large hanging chandelier.
The boat’s main deck features a covered walk around the perimeter, accessed by two forward gangways. Inside is the former gambling area, though all the gaming machines and tables have been removed. There are, however, five television screens, recessed chandeliers on the ceiling, meeting rooms at the aft end of the vessel, and men’s and women’s heads. The casino bar area includes a foot rail, a Hoshtzaki ice machine, three soda taps, two stainless steel ice bins, two double and two single stainless-steel sinks, three 2-door under-counter coolers, and liquor storage. It is one of three such bar areas located on each deck.
Located astern is the red paddlewheel structure, which rises as high as the second deck and can be hydraulically lifted and lowered into the water. The wheel is powered by two Cummins HTA-38 diesel engines, producing a combined total of 1,880 HP, a stately cruising speed of 8 knots, and a top speed of 10 knots. A 300-HP Thrustmaster hydraulic bow thruster also helps control the boat during mooring procedures. Because the Emerald Queen has been anchored in the same spot for a quarter-century, the engines have less than 200 hours of use. Despite their idleness, however, the engines have been lovingly maintained by the Tribe and remain in pristine condition.
Exterior stairs at port and starboard, forward and aft, lead up to the second and third decks, both of which have covered walk-around exterior decking. Inside the second deck ,the former nightclub area of the casino space, is still equipped with seven TV sets and another fitted bar with the same equipment found on the main deck below, plus a master microwave oven and liquor storage. The deck also has a security monitor room with 18 video processors, three monitors, and two camera controls, and two 5-stall heads for men and women.
The top level includes a pilothouse, complete with state-of-the-art navigation and communication equipment, two forward searchlights, a wooden steering wheel, and a ship’s office. Aft of the pilothouse there are also two vertical engine funnels with crown-like, Creole-style ornamentation, giving the boat 55 feet of bridge clearance.
Born on the bayou, this Cajun gem is a classic homage to the nation’s proud riverboating heritage, giving credence to any potential plans for a revival as a future clearwater palace—whether it’s anchored at port or just rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river.
Specs & Info:
LOA 292’ · Beam 60’ · Draft 7’ Tankage (Fuel/Fresh/Black) 14,000 gal. / 30,000 gal. / 32,000 gal.
Engines Twin Cummins HTA-38 Diesels
Contact: Northwest Yachtnet Seattle, WA Matt Palmer 253-310-7162 [email protected] nwyachtnet.com
Randy Woods
Goods + gear – february 2022, you may also like, 2008 oyster 53, 1987 nordzee kotter trawler, 2001 55′ fleming, 1999 66′ forbes cooper/queenship pilothouse, 2022 maritimo m64, 2021 solaris 50, 2018 ocean alexander 70e, 2005 82′ leclercq pilothouse, 1930/2022 vashon navigation, classic 1938 nevins-built sparkman & stephens yawl, leave a comment cancel reply.
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- Puget Sound
At quarter of its value, Queen of Seattle paddle-wheeler still for sale
The price has recently been cut to $250,000 on the 138-foot Queen of Seattle, a steam-powered, paddle-wheel boat moored on Lake Union.
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She has worked in three states under three different names. She loves to party, and has her own bar, cabaret stage, dance floor, player piano and 38-whistle calliope.
There’s even a touch of mystery in her background, stemming from the fact that her first owner’s body was found in a California river in 2003 — a death never fully explained.
Call her Queen of Seattle. That’s the name this 138-foot paddle-wheeler used on her most recent job, taking visitors on a 2½-hour loop around Lake Union from 2010 to 2013.
More information
For more information on the Queen of Seattle, contact Lisa Dindinger at [email protected]. For more information on Alaska Travel Adventures, see www.BestofAlaskaTravel.com.
“I love her. She’s an amazing piece of history,” said Lisa Dindinger of Alaska Travel Adventures , owners of the boat since 2005. “She needs loving care and someone with the know-how to make the best of her.”
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The steel-hulled vessel, which can carry up to 400 passengers, has the classic “floating wedding cake” look of a paddle-wheel riverboat, with its bright-red, 24-foot-diameter stern wheel.
Dindinger said her company decided reluctantly that the boat isn’t a good fit with its Alaska focus, and has offered it for sale for more than two years.
Based on an insurance appraisal that put the boat’s replacement value at more than $1 million, Dindinger said, the company first listed it for sale at $895,000, then dropped the price after about a year to $500,000 and — in the last two weeks — to $250,000.
Any potential purchaser would need pockets deep enough to cover not just the purchase price, but the succession of expenses for moorage, maintenance, fuel, insurance and renovations that will follow.
And there’s this: Anytime the boat is under way, the Coast Guard requires that it have a licensed steam engineer on board.
Dindinger admits only a small slice of the boat-buying public would have a use for a vessel like this. She’s had a couple of recent inquiries, but nothing that panned out.
The boat was built in Sacramento in 1984 as the “Elizabeth Louise” by Harold Wilmunder, whom Dindinger said was a sign maker by occupation and a steam engineer by hobby.
He didn’t operate a consistent tour business with the boat but did some charters and special events, and took friends and family for rides along the Sacramento River.
One day in 2003, the 78-year-old Wilmunder got a call from police saying it appeared a hatch had been forced open near the boat’s bow. Wilmunder went to investigate and was never seen alive again.
After his body was found in the water between a Coast Guard boat and a dock, authorities said the death appeared to be a drowning but were hesitant to rule out possible foul play.
Dindinger said she and her husband learned of the boat online and found Wilmunder’s widow willing to sell. The boat was barged to Seattle, renovated and then steamed its way Ketchikan to begin running tours under the name “Alaska Queen.”
(It still carries the initials “AQ” in gold letters high between its smokestacks, even though the hull identifies it as the Queen of Seattle.)
But Dindinger said the Coast Guard was concerned that the boat, which is tall, narrow and sits high in the water, might not be stable enough for winds and waves in Southeast Alaska, which could be as strong as those in the open ocean.
So the tour company brought the boat down to Seattle and put it to work on Lake Union. But Dindinger said it’s been difficult for the company to give the boat tours proper attention, since its other operations are based in Alaska.
Dindinger said she doesn’t expect the price to drop below the $250,000, adding that it could cost nearly that amount to dispose of the boat.
“We sure hope it doesn’t come to that,” she said.
Paddlewheel Cruises: A Step Back in Time
Immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of yesteryear with our paddlewheel cruises. For many travelers, it’s the perfect combination of classic elegance and modern comfort.
Our paddlewheel cruisers stand as iconic symbols of a bygone era, evoking the golden age of river travel when these iconic boats ruled the waters.
The grand paddlewheels, reminiscent of a time when steam-powered propulsion was the height of innovation, infuse each voyage with a sense of nostalgia. As you step aboard, you’ll find yourself transported to a period of elegance and refinement, while still enjoying modern amenities.
History in Motion
There’s something truly captivating about the rhythmic churning of the paddlewheel as it propels the vessel along historic waterways. It’s a reminder of the past, a connection to the days when these vessels were the lifeblood of transportation and trade along rivers.
But the experience doesn’t end with the propulsion. Onboard, a world of entertainment and camaraderie unfolds. Many of our paddlewheel cruises offer themed parties, live performances, and interactive activities that help foster a sense of community among fellow passengers.
As you share in the revelry, you’ll forge connections that span generations and backgrounds, making memories that last long after the cruise concludes.
Sights and Sounds
Picture yourself in a boat on a river … cruising down the Ohio River, absorbing the picturesque landscapes that unfold before you. Or imagine navigating the winding waters of the Columbia and Snake rivers, tracing the paths of explorers who ventured into uncharted territories. Each destination tells its own story, and our paddlewheel cruises give you the unique opportunity to be a part of that narrative.
In a world where speed and efficiency often take precedence, paddlewheel cruises invite you to slow down and savor every moment. Let the gentle rocking of the boat, the soothing sounds of water, and the grandeur of the paddlewheel transport you to a time when journeys were as important as the destinations themselves.
If you’re seeking an escape from the ordinary, a voyage that intertwines history and modern comfort, then step aboard our paddlewheel cruises. As you relive the charm of a bygone era and discover new horizons, you’ll find that these cruises offer a unique blend of nostalgia and adventure, an experience that is truly timeless.
Get in touch with USA River Cruises to start planning your next adventure or to learn more about our ship types .
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Tri-Deck Stern Wheeler – Recently Listed by Waterline Boats
Custom Steel Tri-Deck Stern Wheeler Recently Listed For Sale by Waterline Boats / Boatshed Seattle
This Steel Stern Wheeler is a very unique, versatile combination of a historic Stern Wheeler and a fine Seattle waterfront three story condo.
8 VIRTUAL TOURS – 1 VIDEO – 140 PHOTOS – FULL SPECS & BROKER’S COMMENTS CAN BE VIEWED OF THIS 1988 Custom Steel Tri-Deck Stern Wheeler
- Hydraulically-driven split paddle wheels
- Hydraulic power supplied by six cylinder diesel engine
- Very spacious, full-headroom engine room
- More….
- Full size dishwasher
- Samsung microwave
- Granite top counter space
- Wine cooler
- Trash compactor
- Maytag stacking washer and dryer
- More…
There’s so much more to see in this unique boat and live-aboard.
Click for the entire Waterline Boats / Boatshed Boats For Sale Inventory!
WLB Brokerage – Boatshed Seattle | Boatshed Everett | Boatshed Tacoma | Boatshed Port Townsend
[email protected] 206 282 0110 2400 Westlake Avenue North, Suite 1 Seattle, WA 98109
564 218 5201 2730 Washington St. Suite C Port Townsend, WA 98368
425 278-9846 920 Millwright Loop S Suite 1 Everett, WA 98201
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Paddle Wheel Riverboat for Sale
Eric Haun , Editor
Eric Haun is editor of Marine News. He has covered the commercial maritime and...
January 13, 2015
- New in 1994
- 260 feet long and 78 feet wide
- $24 million when it was built
- Two 18 Cylinder CAT Power Plants 2,200 HP (Low Hours)
- Two 1,440 KW CAT Generators model 3516
- Eight Chillers that air conditioned the entire boat
- 3,000 KW CAT 3406 Back Up Generator (450 Hours)
- All steel construction: approximately 2,200 tons
- All interior walls stainless steel covered
- 24 miles of copper wire installed
- Navigation gear fully functional, including new radar system
- Last certified by the Coast Guard for use in Oct 2014
- Ultra-modern rest room facilities
- Three Floors of clear space with carpet, lights, air conditioned and heated – 35,000 square feet
- Bar Area with refrigeration equipment
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Contact Capt. Cheryl Clason. 662-423-5080. [email protected]. Commercial Passenger or Private Live Aboard: P/V MOUNTAINEER STAR. $250,000 (Millsboro, PA) Length 100' X 33' X 35' Tall. Built 1965 - Dubuque Boat and Boiler. 125' LOA with Stage X 33' Beam X 3.0' Draft X 35' Free Air Space. USCG Certified for 325 ...
Twin Cummins HTA-38 Diesels. Contact: Northwest Yachtnet. Seattle, WA. Matt Palmer. 253-310-7162. [email protected]. nwyachtnet.com. Northwest Yachtnet invites you aboard a truly unique new listing—the classic 300-foot-long paddlewheeler that once housed the Emerald Queen Casino in Tacoma.
The price has recently been cut to $250,000 on the 138-foot Queen of Seattle, a steam-powered, paddle-wheel boat moored on Lake Union. She has worked in three states under three different names ...
Contact owner at (206) 303-9245. Add To Cart. This sternwheel river boat was built by the owner in Sausalito, California and launched there in 1983. In the mid 90's it was hauled to Portland and has been on the Columbia since then. In recent years the owner has become disabled to the extent that he cannot use the boat or do needed repairs.
For many travelers, it's the perfect combination of classic elegance and modern comfort. Our paddlewheel cruisers stand as iconic symbols of a bygone era, evoking the golden age of river travel when these iconic boats ruled the waters. The grand paddlewheels, reminiscent of a time when steam-powered propulsion was the height of innovation ...
Seller United Yacht Sales - South Carolina / North Carolina Area. 6. Contact. 772-463-3131. 1. Sort By. Filter Search. View a wide selection of Custom Paddle Wheeler boats for sale in your area, explore detailed information & find your next boat on boats.com. #everythingboats.
8 VIRTUAL TOURS - 1 VIDEO - 140 PHOTOS - FULL SPECS & BROKER'S COMMENTS CAN BE VIEWED OF THIS 1988 Custom Steel Tri-Deck Stern Wheeler. This is a rare find in a traditional riverboat sternwheeler that is fully operational yet graciously furnished for luxury waterfront living. Operations. Hydraulically-driven split paddle wheels.
A 260-foot fully operational paddle wheel riverboat, recently used as a large casino, is available for sale by negotiation. Asset management company Stuart B.
1987 Custom East Bay Boat Works Paddle Wheeler. $499,000. Oakdale, NY 11769 | United Yacht Sales. Contact Seller. <. 1. >. Find Custom Paddle Wheeler boats for sale near you, including boat prices, photos, and more. Locate Custom boat dealers and find your boat at Boat Trader!
Find Custom Sternwheeler boats for sale near you, including boat prices, photos, and more. Locate Custom boat dealers and find your boat at Boat Trader!
Search instead for paddle wheel boats. Sand Gecko Paddles 21-11-9 With Douglass Wheels 4/115 Bolt Pattern For YFZ450 Or. Pre-Owned. $149.00. arin8790 (315) 97.4%. or Best Offer. +$60.00 shipping. Sponsored. Vintage Hand Crafted Wooden Steam Two Paddle Wheel Boat 13x12.5x9.
Paddlewheeler Cruise Ships. With between 110-180 guests, these riverboats provide the nostalgic paddlewheeler experience with modern design features and all the amenities today's traveler has come to expect. Located on both the Columbia and Mississippi Rivers, guests aboard these well-appointed paddlewheelers can enjoy the largest staterooms ...
Zillow has 6 photos of this $599,900 2 beds, 2 baths, 1,100 Square Feet condo home located at 2699 Paddle Wheel Dr #404, Guntersville, AL 35976 built in 2024. MLS #21869755.
Riverboat DELTA QUEEN remote control riverboat model. The Delta Queen is a sternwheel steamboat. She is 285 feet long and 58 feet wide, weighs 1,650 tons, and with a capacity of 176 passengers. Delta Queen was docked in Chattanooga, Tennessee and served as a floating hotel until she was bought by the newly formed Delta Queen Steamboat Company.
W5845 Carla Court Stoddard, WI 54658-9706. PH: (608) 788-3210. FX: (608) 480-8703. EM: [email protected]. Pinnacle Marine Corporation is the only brokerage service specializing in the passenger vessel industry. We provide assistance in locating suitable financing packages, vessel transportation via water or land, assistance in securing ...
Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for King of Mississippi Paddlewheel Steamboat Wooden Riverboat Model 30" Ferry Boat at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!
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Riverboat for sale is former casino ... just getting it here - but a fully operational paddle wheel riverboat, used but with low mileage, is for sale on the Ohio River in southern Illinois. An asset management company in St. Louis is selling the 20 year old, 260 foot long, 2200 ton, Coast Guard certified riverboat that was most recently a ...
Mississippi River "paddlewheelers" or "steamboats," have left an indelible mark on the history and culture of the United States, especially in regions along the Mississippi River. American Cruise Lines' fleet of Mississippi River paddlewheelers continues this rich tradition, offering guests an authentic journey along this legendary river where ...
Monday morning, May 2, 2022, the Hiawatha Paddlewheel Riverboat embarked on its 41st season! 50 Nautical Miles. On a weekly basis, the Hiawatha travels up and down the river more than 50 nautical miles! 1300 Seasonal Hours. In a typical season, the Queen of the Susquhanna's engines run for more than 1300 hours!
161K subscribers in the Maps community. Beautiful, interesting, and informative maps.
Basic information. For sale two bedroom apartment with an area of 64 m 2, located on the first floor of a two-storey residential building in the Soviet region of Bryansk. The apartment consists of an entrance hall, kitchen, living room, two bedrooms, separate bathroom lined with tiles. Apartment in excellent condition after minor repairs.
Klintsy Sloboda was founded in 1707 by peasants-Old Believers, and is named after the last names of the first settlers (Klinets) in the plural.In 1782 Klintsy was founded in a part of Surazh district. There were companies printing predominantly Old Believers liturgical books. The development of the printing industry contributed to higher literacy Klintsov population.
For sale great 2 bedroom apartment, area 45 m2 in the new brick house in the center of the savetski district of Bryansk. Apartment after quality finishing, located on the floor 6-storied brick house. Kitchen area of 9.6 m2, room insulated, the bathroom is combined. New buyer remains all furniture: built-in kitchen, cabinets, wardrobes ...