The River Explorer is not running at this time.
The River Explorer actually consists of a powerful towboat and two hotel barges,
the LaSalle (containing the staterooms) and the DeSoto (containing the public areas like restaurant).
The River Explorer has been operated by RiverBarge Excursions from 1998 to 2008. The boat is now part of the MARAD fleet and is up for sale.
With a maximum of only 198 passengers and a total crew of 42, the River Explorer offers
the most casual way of cruising the rivers without any of the formal events like Captains Dinner
or Champagne Reception. A specialty of RiverBarges Excursions is that even gratuities and
the shore activities are included in the price.
Expect all you're expecting from a hotel room: satellite TV, VCR, refrigerator, phone, full-size
tub and shower and big windows. And the galley is always open, like your fridge at home.