If you're looking for a laid-back way to enjoy one of northern Indiana's most beautiful lakes, it's hard to beat a ride aboard the The Dixie Boat in North Webster. Built in 1929 and today known as Indiana's Oldest Sternwheel Excursion Boat, The Dixie has been cruising across Webster Lake for decades, becoming a beloved local tradition. Whether you're visiting for the weekend or have lived nearby for years, this scenic cruise offers a unique way to experience the area's history and natural beauty.
A Piece of Indiana History
The Dixie Sternwheeler is more than just a boat, it's a floating piece of Indiana history. Inspired by the classic paddlewheel riverboats of the past, the Dixie carries passengers on leisurely cruises around Webster Lake. Over the decades, generations of families have climbed aboard to enjoy the peaceful ride, making it a summertime tradition that continues today.
As the boat glides across the water, the captain shares stories about the lake, local landmarks, and the history of North Webster, giving passengers a deeper appreciation for this charming lakeside community.
Enjoy the Webster Lake Scenery
One of the best parts of riding the Dixie is simply slowing down and taking in the scenery. The cruise passes beautiful lakefront cottages, wooded shorelines, marinas, and plenty of wildlife. Keep an eye out for great blue herons, turtles, and the occasional bald eagle soaring overhead.
The upper deck provides panoramic views, while the covered lower deck offers a comfortable place to relax on warmer afternoons. No matter where you sit, the peaceful pace of the cruise makes it easy to unwind.
A Fun Stop During Your Visit
After your cruise, spend some time exploring North Webster. The downtown area is filled with locally owned shops, popular ice cream stops like Sheila's Sweet Treats Ice Cream Parlor and Skoops Ice Cream Shop, and go-to restaurants including Roll-N Smoke BBQ, all within a short walk of the Dixie dock. During the summer months, the town has a lively atmosphere with boaters, visitors, and families enjoying everything the lake has to offer.
Whether you're planning a day trip or spending a weekend at the lake, the Dixie Sternwheeler is an experience that's easy to add to your itinerary.
Plan Your Ride
Operating daily from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, the Dixie Sternwheeler offers public sightseeing cruises as well as private charters for special occasions. Tickets are $9.75 for anyone age 1 or older, the ride is family-friendly, and no two cruises are exactly alike thanks to the changing scenery and seasons. Cruises are approximately 75 minutes long and leave the dock at the following times:
Monday through Friday: 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Saturday: 6 p.m., 7:30 p.m., 9 p.m. (twilight cruise)
Sunday: 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 8 p.m.
For anyone wanting to experience one of Indiana's most treasured lakes from the water, the Dixie Sternwheeler remains one of North Webster's most memorable attractions.
There are no reserved ticket sales, meaning all rides are first come, first served!