Bama Belle Riverboat Has Departed Tuscaloosa
The historic paddlewheel boat is headed to Florida after being sold to a new owner for operation.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Cruises
Live Poll
Should local communities prioritize keeping iconic historical landmarks in their original locations?
The Bama Belle, a 1970 riverboat, has departed Tuscaloosa on the Black Warrior River following its sale. The vessel is currently traveling to Florida to be rebranded as the Suwannee Belle.
Why it matters
The relocation marks a new chapter for the retired passenger vessel, which will soon return to service on the Suwannee River. Its movement downriver signals the completion of its transition to a new owner.
The 1970-built paddlewheel vessel is traveling at a speed of approximately 5 knots. The boat covers about 70 miles per day during its transit down the Black Warrior River.
The players
Bama Belle
This is a 1970 paddlewheel riverboat that previously provided passenger service in Alabama.
Craig Dodson
He is the individual who purchased the riverboat in 2015.
The details
The Bama Belle is traveling under its own power, utilizing a routine of daily movement followed by overnight layovers to reach the coast. The vessel has stopped in Tuscaloosa to undergo repairs before continuing its journey to Florida.
Timeline
Craig Dodson purchased the riverboat in November 2015.
The vessel ceased regular passenger service in 2020.
The boat was spotted traveling downriver the week of September 22, 2026.
Travel Outlook
The relocation of the Bama Belle follows a pattern of heritage river craft being repurposed to support local tourism in new regions. This move preserves the historical paddlewheel vessel configuration for future passenger operations on the Suwannee River.
Residents and boaters on the Black Warrior River should be aware of the slow-moving vessel as it continues its transit toward the coast. Travelers interested in seeing the boat's new operations should monitor updates regarding its future debut on the Suwannee River.
The takeaway
The journey of the Bama Belle demonstrates the ongoing utility of vintage riverboats in the modern tourism sector. Maintaining such craft requires regular repairs, especially when moving between river systems for new service.
Further reading
For more information on current maritime transit and passenger vessel updates, visit Cruises.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Tuscaloosa Thread.
Live Poll
Should local communities prioritize keeping iconic historical landmarks in their original locations?
