newport belle riverboat

Spend the Night on This Amazing Newport, Oregon AirBnb Riverboat

by Danielle Denham | Mar 14, 2022 | Featured , Lodging , Newport , Oregon Coast

Here at That Oregon Life , we're always searching for new and unique places to stay in this beautiful state of ours. From themed hotels , hobbit houses , treehouse resorts , and a restored granary we've covered quite a few, although this is the first time TOL has discovered an authentic sternwheel riverboat available to rent.

Image via / AirBnB / Newport Belle

The Most Unique Newport, Oregon Airbnb Out There

Paige and Randy Sanders recently purchased the historic Newport Belle, and have revamped it into a full-fledged bed & breakfast. The lodgings come complete with the best views of Yaquina Bay on the Historic Bayfront.

Related: Your Guide to the Best of Newport, Oregon

Fabulous views await you on Yaquina Bay. / Image via / AirBnB / Newport Belle

The vessel has changed ownership a few times in recent years from its humble beginnings. Originally it was singlehandedly built by one man, then operated on the Coquille River near Bandon. Eventually, the sternwheeler vessel made it north to Yaquina Bay where it resides today.

Related: Visit Bandon, Oregon for the Best of the Southern Coast

Five cabins are available in this awesome, adult-only Newport, Oregon Airbnb. Owners Paige and Randy have done extensive renovations to the rooms and common areas. All cabins include flat-screen TVs with satellite, luxurious memory foam mattresses, Egyptian cotton sheets, Turkish cotton towels, and keypad check-ins. In true b&b style, a three-course breakfast is included every morning with your stay as well as complimentary nightly happy hour.

Speaking of happy hour, the bayfront provides constant things and activities to smile about. Skip off the boat and walk the quaint sidewalks of Yaquina Bay to take in all of the sights and aromas of a working fishing wharf. Bars and restaurants abound here with some of the best and freshest Oregon seafood. One of our favorites is Clearwater Restaurant , but Mo's original location here is always a crowd-pleaser as well.

Outdoor seating at Clearwater Restaurant /Image via / The Author / thePDXphotographer

The newly revamped Ripley's Believe It Or Not is a must-see, even for adults. Stop and watch the raucously entertaining harbor seals that make their home in the bay, or take a short walk to the Oregon Coast Aquarium and Hatfield Marine Science Center . If shopping delights you, there are a multitude of locally-owned businesses to choose from with wares from souvenirs, kites, art, and home goods to hand-poured candles, 420-friendly items, and artisan jewelry.

To be perfectly honest, I'd be happy just curling up with a good book to watch the ships go by in the Newport Belle's cozy living area.

Ready to book a stay on the Newport Belle? See all the information you need for this most eclectic Newport Oregon AirBnb (with absolutely STELLAR 5-star reviews, we might add).

Sternwheel Riverboat B&B

Written By Danielle Denham

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NEWPORT BELLE BED & BREAKFAST

This seasonal riverboat B&B is docked on Yaquina Bay. It's a 4-minute walk to the Hatfield Marine Science Center, an 8-minute walk to the Oregon Coast Aquarium and 1.5 miles from Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site.

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THOUSAND TRAILS WHALERS REST

BEVERLY BEACH STATE PARK

PRIVATE FISHING CHARTERS

The Newport Belle Riverboat B & B

Updated over 3 months ago

Review Highlights

“ Paige and Randy , Belle's hosts and owners, went above and beyond to make our stay comfortable. ” in 11 reviews

“ The room was nice and clean, and we hung out in the lounge with a great view of the bridge . ” in 8 reviews

“ Appetizers for happy hour were included as well as a three course breakfast ! ” in 3 reviews

Location & Hours

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2126 SE Marine Science Dr

Newport, OR 97365

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Amenities and More

About the business.

Business owner information

Randy and Paige S.

Business Owner

Unique riverboat accommodations on the Central Oregon Coast. All cabins are newly remodeled and include private baths. Happy hour is nightly from 5-6 pm. A three-course, homemade breakfast is served each morning. …

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Is the boat wheelchair accessible? Or are their elevators to get to the different decks?

Hi Cathy, Unfortunately, we are not wheelchair accessible. We are a small vessel with five rentable rooms… more

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Love everything about this beautiful B &B. The view, accommodations, breakfast, and definitely Randy & Paige!!

This is a wholesome cozy bed and breakfast. Hosts are warm and welcoming and comfortable to talk to. Decor is nautical and well done. We enjoyed exploring the details. Highly recommend.

My fiance and I stayed at the Newport Belle recently and were very impressed. Our first bed-n-breakfast and picked a good one. Before we arrived, we were sent a link to a Youtube video with a lot of good information about where to go and park. We were texted a link with the codes needed to get on board and in our room. We were called the morning of our arrival to get our breakfast selections as well. We arrived and got inside and found our room. Our door code to our room didn't work. I turned around to go back downstairs (we were in Room 4 on the 3rd floor) and were greeted before even heading down the stairs by the owner who was happy to come up and give us a new code and get us inside. It was happy hour (around 5pm), so after we settled in, we went to the 2nd floor. There were other couples there hanging out. The owners again greeted us, asked what beverages we would like, and we sat and they served us appetizers and drinks. My 7-up was served in a cold mug and was good and my fiance had two special alcoholic drinks. We were shown a game chest and played cards while a couple more couples joined the room (but we stayed at our 2 person table). The owner came over several times to check on us and see if we needed anything and also to chat. Very personable. Expect to be chatty back if you stay -- although if you are choosing a bed-n-breakfast, you should likely expect some measure of being around other people. While the other couples left and the owners went to bed, my fiance and I stayed in the main sitting area and played cards for a couple hours. We had coffee and hot chocolate. It was easy to come and go as we pleased as we went to dinner. We didn't hear other people. Eventually, we went back to our room. It is cozy and has a private bathroom. There is a nice coffee maker and a bed. The bed is a bit firm -- which I like -- and everything was clean and tidy. The next morning we went downstairs for a 3-course breakfast. One item was apricots with pistachios on greek yogurt. It was great. The next was a chocolate crepe of some kind. It was good as well. Lastly was blueberry pancakes and bacon. I should mention that I don't like certain foods. I don't like cheese. I don't like bacon. I'm still American though, because I enjoy apple pie. However, the bacon that was made here I had 5 bites of. That is 2 more bites of bacon than I have had in the past 30 years combined. As far as bacon goes, it was the best I've ever had. Very impressive. The boat is stationed quite firmly, so despite being on the water, it doesn't sway. Don't worry about that if it was a concern that you'd get seasick. Overall, this is a fantastic place to stay. Great atmosphere, great room, great owners, fun trip. And how often can you say you stayed at a bed-n-breakfast one a boat and served a gourmet breakfast? If you are looking for a little different experience and you are staying in Newport, the Newport Belle is an excellent choice.

Main cabin/gathering area. Other couples were with us for Happy Hour. After that, we had the floor to ourselves.

The Newport Belle at night. Great color!

I can't recommend this place enough!!! What a dream come true. The owners are welcoming and their attention to detail is beyond expectations. We came for one night and met couples from all areas of the USA visiting this BnB. Had a wonderful Happy Hour with homemade blue cheese cheesecake with delicious crackers and various beers and wines. During this happy hour, the couples and owners sat around and chatted. The next day, they served many delicious pastries and fruit, homemade granola and choice of biscuits and gravy or chocolate waffles with cherry compote- all made to order and from scratch! What a treat! The room was comfortable with everything we needed. It was quiet and the view of the bridge was breathtaking. They have games and books you can borrow if you choose to sit around and relax. We will be back for sure! Absolutely wonderful!

See all photos from B G. for The Newport Belle Riverboat B & B

This was an experience unlike anything I've ever had before. The owners are so attentive and make every moment super special. From the easy going check in process, to the happy hour snacks and drinks, to the breakfast in the morning. My husband and I traveled from Portland metro area for our anniversary. The owners had our room set with flower petals on the bed and complementary champagne and chocolate covered espresso beans. We felt like royalty with the personal touches at happy hour and breakfast. The owners offer recommendations for dinner and things to do/see in town. Room #4 is incredible. The view of the bridge from the bed will never get old. If you are even contemplating booking a night at the Newport Belle- DO NOT HESITATE. My husband and I will be back.

See all photos from Allie D. for The Newport Belle Riverboat B & B

Very comfortable and unique experience. The rooms are redone very nice, great view from windows

Breakfast was delicious. All the appetizers were too! The oranges with whipped cream and almonds was incredible!! Would definitely recommend!!

An actual floating riverboat with 5 guest rooms. It is located across the Bay from Newport (and across the bridge). You can walk to the NOAA visitor center, the Rogue Brewery, and the fishing pier and the Aquarium is nearby. Great views of the Bridge. The owners/ hosts are genuinely nice people who truly seem to want the guests to be happy. We thought they were giving us special treatment but it turns out that everyone else got it, too. . The breakfasts are 3 course gourmet affairs and the evening happy hours include drinks and appetizers - different every evening- that could serve as a small meal. Most of the other guests return periodically for special occasions. It is rare to find a place that actually exceeds expectations. We will be coming back.

Just checked out today and I want to go back! A very comfortable and unique place to stay. I love how you have your bedroom, but then can hang out upstairs in a very cozy area. The owners/hosts are very friendly and helpful as well. Love the breakfast and happy hour!

See all photos from Carolyn P. for The Newport Belle Riverboat B & B

Incredible stay at The Newport Belle! Everything was a 5/5. * Accommodations: The comfiest, coziest bed. Loved the clean nautical decor. The bright white really amps up the room, beautiful headboard! Even has a little fridge which we were pleasantly surprised to see. Enjoyed the music playing when we walked into the room from the smart tv. * Breakfast: we enjoyed the best 3 course breakfast! Frozen blueberry parfait, hazelnut ravioli and large eggs benny. Indulgent treat and lovely conversation from the owners throughout breakfast. We were lucky to sit in the private sunroom--overlooking the bridge, had a chance to use the binoculars to peek at all the boats and birds. Was a lovely experience. * Owners: the husband and wife owners, Randy & Paige, were so thoughtful. Easily accommodated our changing check-in time, provided parking and room access directions. Couldn't have been easier! During breakfast they swiftly brought out each course and we enjoyed talking to them throughout breakfast. We learned about the boat, that they've owned it for only a year and a half and have been renovating it ever since (beautiful rooms, sunroom--you can tell they care about the details). Can't wait to visit next time and enjoy the happy hour and hopefully see Bob the seal! Truly a gem.

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Newport Belle B&B: One of the Best Places to Stay in Newport, OR

Written by lori tobias, hotels and resorts | destinations | north america | oregon | travel | united states, wander with wonder contains affiliate links and is a member of the amazon services llc associates program. if you make a purchase using one of these amazon links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. see our disclosure policy for more information..

For a truly unique overnight experience, we recommend staying onboard the Newport Belle B&B. Sitting on Yaquina Bay along Oregon’s Central Coast, Newport Belle B&B is one of the best places to stay in Newport.

I’ve stayed in hotels worldwide—jungle, beachfront, mountaintop, desert. But the one that stands out as purely one-of-a-kind is one I’ve visited for more than 20 years. I have written about it for numerous publications, but I’d never logged one night on it. Until now. The Newport Belle B&B floats on Yaquina Bay, making it one of the best places to stay in Newport, on Oregon’s central coast. Read on for my experience onboard the Newport Belle.

What's in This Article:

The Belle of Newport’s Yaquina Bay

The 97-foot Newport Belle B&B floats on Yaquina Bay , a scant six miles from my house. As much as I’d have loved to spend a night, that nearness made it challenging to justify the expense of booking a room and hiring a dog sitter. But I had shared it with many visiting writers looking for a fine place to stay. Then, over time, guilty of the blind eye that developed after living in a place so long, I lost track of it. In truth, I wasn’t sure the place still existed. As it turned out, it almost didn’t. Then, I saw a post on a social media site welcoming locals for breakfast. I made my reservation and met new owners, Paige and Randy Sanders. Turns out, they were just in time.  

The spacious main salon on the Newport Belle B & B. Photo by Lori Tobias

The Newport Belle was built in 1993 in Bandon, Oregon , and brought to Newport sometime in the 1990s. The details of its arrival in Newport are a bit sketchy. Paige believes the riverboat was likely brought by barge since it was built for river tours but is not seaworthy. The couple first discovered the Belle in the early 2000s. They considered buying it then. But with four kids still living at home, the logistics didn’t make sense.  

The sunroom on the Newport Belle B & B is a favorite for Happy Hour. Photo courtesy Newport Belle B & B

Reimagining the Newport Belle

Fast forward another 15 years, and the Sanders again found the Newport Belle for sale. This time, under a different owner. It wasn’t the Belle they remembered. “Fifteen years ago, it was so immaculately kept,” Paige recalled. “Then we got here, and we went from having this pristine image in mind to finding this boat that needed an incredible amount of work. I think a couple more years, and it would have had to go to scrap.”  

Luckily, Randy once owned a property maintenance company in Las Vegas. He knows his way around a toolbox. So, in December 2020, the pair signed the papers and bought themselves a paddle-wheeler. It took six months of replacing damaged wood, tearing out walls, reinsulating, resealing, and repairing before the first guestroom was ready for guests. It would be another six months before the other four were finished.   

Paige and Randy Sanders welcome guests to the Newport Belle B & B. Photo by Lori Tobias

Hello, My Old Friend, Belle

When I boarded the Newport Belle for breakfast, it had been nearly 20 years since I’d been aboard. Just climbing those wooden stairs to the main salon was a delight. The Sanders have missed nothing. Guests are welcomed with a personal hello on the main salon blackboard. Art and fun knickknacks color walls, table tops, and unexpected nooks. Rocking chairs beckon to sit a spell. Exterior decks come with comfy chairs and tables just right for books and drinks. Every space has a personal touch.  

Breakfast, offered in the main salon and sunroom, was spectacular. It started with a buffet of pastries, cereals, fruit, and toast. Afterward, guests chose roasted pears with raspberry sauce or homemade coffee cake. For the main course, options included homemade corned beef hash or ricotta/blueberry waffles. Combined with the décor and the front-seat  views of the Bayfront, it’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Afterward, whenever I had a special occasion or wanted to treat a friend, I made reservations for breakfast on the Belle. Each time, Paige and Randy invited me to spend a night, and I responded with a perfectly justifiable reason why it didn’t make sense.  And following, always the look from my husband, Chan, implying, “But why not?”  

Breakfast on the Newport Belle B & B starts with a buffet of pastries, fruit, and cereals. Photo by Lori Tobias

Timing is Everything

And then, one day after a visit for breakfast, Paige and Randy said, “You know, Lori, you really should spend the night so you get the full experience.”  Finally, I said yes. But it would be a secret, a birthday surprise for Chan, and one I would have to keep from him for a month. That’s no small feat. I am lousy at surprises—always so excited by the idea I give it away.  

In the days leading up to our stay, I snuck around, packing the suitcase while he was out, then stashing it out of sight. I secretly arranged for the dogsitter and crafted a tale for Chan of bogus plans to celebrate his day, including one bit of the truth. As we drove away the afternoon of his birthday, I explained that we’d have happy hour on the Belle before dinner. He loved the idea. Chan is always happy to board the boat.  

Welcome aboard the Newport Belle B & B Photo by Lori Tobias

Staying on the Newport Belle

Instructions on where to park and the code to access our stateroom arrived by email a few days before our stay. I parked in the marina parking lot and led Chan down the gangway. Then, instead of going to the entrance door leading to the main salon, I tapped in my code on Stateroom 2. I tend to have a lousy sense of direction, and Chan seemed to think I was confused. Even when I opened the door and we stepped inside, he looked at me, puzzled, “Lori, we’re not supposed to be in here.”

I smiled, “Happy Birthday!” He still didn’t get it.

Then, the grin. “Really?” he asked. 

“Really,” I replied. “We’re spending the night.” Until then, I had no idea how badly he’d wanted to overnight on the Belle.  

The queen-sized bed in Stateroom 2. Photo by Lori Tobias

We retrieved the bags I’d hidden in the back of my RAV and then got familiar with Stateroom 2. Located at water level, it has a queen-sized bed, views of the iconic Yaquina Bay Bridge and Newport marina, a private bath (as all staterooms do), and the artful details that are everywhere on the Belle—plus two gourmet birthday cupcakes.  

Because we live here and know the local attractions, my only plan (besides one more surprise) was to enjoy the boat, but for guests coming from out of town, there are all kinds of attractions nearby. The Hatfield Marine Science Center Visitor Center and the Oregon Coast Aquarium are no more than five minutes away, likewise the Rogue Brewery. A drive over the Yaquina Bridge will lead you to the Bayfront’s numerous art and souvenir shops and several restaurants. All are casual—that’s the Oregon Coast vibe—but menus range from family comfort food to fine dining.   

Happy Hour at One of the Best Places to Stay in Newport

I did have one more treat to mark the date.    

Happy Hour on the Belle starts at 5 pm, and guests are invited to enjoy it from the sunroom or in the main salon, warmed in winter by a wood stove and refreshed by the sea breeze in summer. A message on the chalkboard at the top of the entry greeted the other guests and us aboard, and next to it, a table held an abundant spread of meats, nuts, and cheeses, along with complimentary beer and wine.  I had invited a couple to join us—which the Sanders graciously okayed. We gathered around the sunroom table, raising glasses and enjoying the fantastic views.  

The Newport Belle B & B is moored permanently on the Yaquina Bay. Photo courtesy Newport Belle B & B

After Happy Hour, I thought we might hail a taxi into town for dinner, but back in our room, we couldn’t quite bring ourselves to leave. Instead, we ordered pizza, enjoying the views as the sun set over Yaquina Bay. As the sky darkened, lights on the Newport Belle’s exterior came on, casting the paddle wheeler in a soothing shade of teal. We indulged in the birthday cupcakes and a glass of prosecco, then later, let the bay waters lull us to sleep. Not only had I managed to pull off the surprise, I’d given Chan a birthday he has described as the best ever.

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Staying on the Newport Belle B&B

Living as close as I do, I may find it hard to justify another night on one of Newport’s best places to stay . Then again, I might go ahead and indulge. Let  Wander With Wonder be your guide when planning your trip to Oregon or elsewhere in the Pacific Northwest . 

B&B Inn | Oregon Coast

Great article on a beautiful place to stay. I’ve spent years eating and sleeping on boats and ships of all kinds, and the Belle is the most unique of them all.

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Newport Belle painstakingly restored as a floating hotel on the Oregon coast

Fifteen years ago, Paige and Randy Sanders were set to buy the Newport Belle Riverboat Bed and Breakfast and take her away to California where the city of Long Beach eagerly awaited the paddlewheeler’s arrival. But with four teenagers still at home in Los Angeles, the couple just couldn’t make it work. So, they passed, never knowing that as the years went by, the Newport Belle was slowly rotting away.

“It was a bit of a shocker,” said Paige, a former senior IT program manager for MGM Casinos. “Fifteen years ago, it was so immaculately kept. Then we got here and we went from having this pristine image in mind to this boat that needed an incredible amount of work. I think a couple more years it would have had to go to scrap.”

The couple had no plans to take a second look at the Newport Belle. But several years ago, now in Las Vegas and on the cusp of retirement, the “not really sit-at-home, stare-at-the-walls-kind-of-people” decided to look into the hospitality business. The original plan was to create a glamping resort near the Grand Canyon. But when last minute legal challenges killed those plans, they began looking for other opportunities – on land, of course. That’s when they came upon the listing for the 97-foot Newport Belle. The deal went through in December 2020. Three months later, while the country was adapting to life in a pandemic, the Sanders were adapting to life afloat a 29-year-old badly neglected riverboat.

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But COVID or no COVID, it would be months before they could host their first guests. Of the five guestrooms, the three on the lower level were in the worst shape.

“Those were the ones that had the heavy damage,” said Randy, who previously owned a property maintenance company in Las Vegas. “There was a lot of wood rot and mold in the walls. We had to tear out the walls, the outer facing, and replace all the moldy, damaged wood. We had to reinsulate and reseal all the walls. It was a lot of work.”

Six months in they had one guestroom ready; a month later, two. They were able to host guests under the pandemic restrictions by offering virtual check-ins and contactless meals. It was a year before all five guestrooms were ready, and Randy continues work on the exterior.

“It’s been a lot of work, but it’s been rewarding,” Paige said.

They’ve hosted guests who stayed on the Belle under former owners, but they have also met longtime Newport residents who had no idea the paddlewheeler was there. They’ve witnessed marriage proposals and hosted honeymooners. And they have hosted some guests who had no idea they’d reserved a room on a floating hotel.

“From time to time, we get that phone call, ‘Do you rock?’” Paige said. “We’ve had people stay anyway and say they want to chance it, and we have had a few people get sick. Unlike a boat out at sea, all you have to do here is walk off the boat.”

Woodburn residents Kim and Michael Laramie happened upon the listing for the Newport Belle, and although they don’t usually stay at bed and breakfasts and had never stayed on a boat, they decided to give it a chance. Now, they stay every other month, or more often, if possible.

What do they like about it? “Everything,” Kim said. “The boat itself is beautiful. Paige and Randy are really just amazing people. They’ve become our friends. They put thought into everything from the perfect mattresses – even the toilet paper is above and beyond what you would find at a normal hotel. You can tell it’s not just a business for them.”

While guests who have come from the Netherlands, Germany, Ireland, England, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa and most of the 50 states are often interesting and entertaining in their own right, it’s hard to compete with the local marine life, including a seal dubbed Bob, and a blue heron they call Harriet. Some of the critters are friendlier than others.

“We have neighbor that lives down the way from us,” Paige said. “He had a seagull put a nest on his boat and it was precariously perched. So, he pushed it back to protect the baby. That mom seagull dive bombed him for three solid months because he had messed with her nest.”

The Sanders have recently opened breakfast and dinner to non-guests by reservation only. Breakfast changes daily but offers three courses, including a fruit starter, pastry and savory or sweet entr One recent menu featured roasted pears with raspberry sauce, homemade coffee cake, and homemade corned beef hash or ricotta/blueberry waffles. The dinner menu offers salads, soup, pasta, beef, chicken and salmon, along with homemade small-batch ice cream and Italian lemon pound cake. Dinners come with homemade sourdough beer bread and a complimentary cocktail.

Happy hours on the boat also often include one of Paige’s homemade cocktails, like her Fig Liquor (see recipe below), and the views are just about impossible to beat with the Yaquina Bay Bridge taking center stage as a backdrop for kayakers, anglers and all manner of boats.

“The most interesting part is meeting so many different types of people from so many different areas,” said Kim. “It’s so nice to talk with everybody at happy hour. It’s like there is a magic at that place. Just about everybody becomes friends.”

The Newport Belle Bed and Breakfast is moored in the South Beach Marina in Newport. For more information, visit newportbelle.com

For the fig liquor:

• 8 oz dried figs
• Peach whiskey

Place dried figs in a container with a tight fitting lid. Cover with enough peach whiskey to completely submerge figs in alcohol, seal tight and place in a cool, dark place for two weeks.

For the drink:

• 1 oz fig liquor
• .5 oz fresh lemon juice
• 2 oz ginger ale
• 6-8 dashes pear bitters

Combine the first four ingredients in a glass and stir to combine. Pour over ice. Add 6-8 dashes of bitters to finished drink and enjoy.

— Lori Tobias, for The Oregonian/OregonLive

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Newport, Oregon : America's Only Riverboat B&B

The Newport Belle, a 97-foot-long stern-wheeler riverboat, is operated as a Bed and Breakfast.

Newport Belle

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Funky non-moving boat.

Original proprietors Nancy Sims and Michael Wilkinson operated the 97-ft. long paddlewheeler built in 1993, the Newport Belle, as a Bed and Breakfast. It was hauled onto dry land for refurbishment in 2017, and returned under new ownership in 2020.

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Pictures: Disney’s Tom Sawyer Island and the…

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Things To Do Theme Parks Disney World

Pictures: disney’s tom sawyer island and the liberty belle riverboat.

Guests visit Tom Sawyer Island and ride the Liberty Belle riverboat at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Wednesday, August 14, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and riverboat —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will be replaced by two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The steam-powered riverboat Liberty Belle on the Rivers of America passing Tom Sawyer Island, left, at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —including the Liberty Belle— will be replaced with two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Tom Sawyer Island is reflected in the Rivers of America in this two-minute time exposure photographed at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, June 10, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests are transported on a log raft across the Rivers of America to Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests check out the explorers’ map on Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The riverboat Liberty Belle sailing on the Rivers of America passes Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests wait to board at Tom’s Landing on Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Aunt Polly’s Dockside Inn along the Rivers of America on Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The riverboat Liberty Belle passes guests waiting to be transported across the Rivers of America to Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A young guest waves from Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The steam-powered riverboat Liberty Belle on the Rivers of America passing Tom Sawyer Island, left, and The Haunted Mansion, background, at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —including the Liberty Belle— will be replaced with two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests cross the Barrel Bridge at Smuggler’s Cove at Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests board a log raft to be transported across the Rivers of America to Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A young guest explores Scavenger’s Fort on Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The windmill at Potter’s Mill on Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests walk through Fort Langhorn on Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The riverboat Liberty Belle passes by guests waiting to be transported across the Rivers of America to Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A welcome sign on Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The riverboat Liberty Belle passes by Aunt Polly’s Dockside Inn, with The Haunted Mansion in the background, on the Rivers of America at Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Harper’s Mill, left, on Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The riverboat Liberty Belle passes guests waiting to be transported across the Rivers of America off of Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Pappy’s Fishing Pier on the Rivers of America at Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

A view of Big Thunder Mountain Railroad from Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The horse stable at Fort Langhorn on Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests walk to Tom’s Landing on Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Fort Langhorn on Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests are transported on a log raft across the Rivers of America to Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The Indian Territory along the Rivers of America at Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

Guests wait in line to be transported on a log raft across the Rivers of America to Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —that have operated since 1973 as a Mark Twain-inspired attraction— will become two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise as part of a major reimagining of the Frontierland area of the park. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The steam-powered riverboat Liberty Belle on the Rivers of America passing Tom Sawyer Island at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that the island and surrounding river —including the Liberty Belle— will be replaced with two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

The interior cabin of the steam-powered riverboat Liberty Belle on the Rivers of America at the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World, Thursday, August 15, 2024. Disney has announced that Tom Sawyer Island and surrounding river —including the Liberty Belle— will be replaced with two new rides based on the “Cars” movie franchise. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel)

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