Cruisin' Tikis Pittsburgh boats return for a 6th season
The tiki boats are back for a sixth season.
“I call it a tropical staycation,” said Dale McCue, of Eighty-Four, who co-owns the tiki boat company with fiancee Joa Campise. “It’s two hours of feeling like you are on an island … but you don’t have to get on a plane and go somewhere. It’s right here in your own backyard.”
Cruisin’ Tikis Pittsburgh offers sightseeing tours on the Allegheny, Ohio and Monongahela rivers.
McCue said they updated the sound system on the three boats.
The newest boat was added last season and allows the company to accommodate parties of 18 people. The boats can be connected when not in motion.
The plan is to be able to offer per-person seating, McCue said. He has partnerships with Hard Rock Café, Terrene in Station Square and The Foundry on the North Side. Guests may bring food and drinks on the boat.
Rich Vargo of Mt. Washington has been on two tiki cruises. A former recreational boat owner, Vargo said it is a relaxing experience.
“It is kind of like a ride at Kennywood,” he said. “When you get off it you can’t help but smile. I always say life is about making memories.”
There’s a regular sightseeing route, but riders also can ask their captain to stop in a spot, such as close to Point State Park, near the Rivers Casino or one of the stadiums, and just hang out there on the water. Listening to concerts at Acrisure Stadium or PNC Park or watching fireworks from the water is an unforgettable experience, McCue said.
Captains know the history of the city and share insight about the war memorials on the North Shore, the submarine near the science center and other interesting sights, McCue said.
The 16-foot boats are octagonal-shaped and can do a 360-degree turn in one spot. They are made of authentic bamboo and treated lumber. Each weighs 4,500 pounds and runs on a Suzuki 30-horsepower motor, traveling at about 6 mph.
McCue said they’ve hosted everything from engagements to birthday celebrations — even a wedding at Point State Park.
Guests board at the Landing and Marina at Station Square on the South Side or Riverfront Park near PNC Park on the North Shore.
The vessels don’t have a restroom, but there’s a scheduled stop at Point State Park for pictures or bathroom breaks.
Cruises, which run through mid-October, last two hours. They’re available seven days a week, beginning at 8 a.m., weather permitting, especially this time of the year.
The weather in Pittsburgh can be challenging, McCue said. The captains have radar on their phones to monitor conditions. Each boat is equipped with a marine radio to monitor other boats and commercial river traffic for safety purposes.
There’s a roof and guests are somewhat protected if it rains. They still cruise in the rain and can take cover under one of Pittsburgh’s many bridges to wait out a thunderstorm.
McCue watches the weather reports in real-time to view the water level to determine whether it’s safe to go out.
If a trip needs to be canceled due to unsafe weather or river conditions, guests are given a refund or can reschedule for a future time.
Boats are certified by the U.S. Coast Guard. The captains are U.S. Coast Guard licensed and knowledgeable of Pittsburgh landmarks. Safety equipment is on board, including life jackets.
“We know there are plenty of entertainment options in Pittsburgh but we invite everyone to try the tiki boats,” McCue said. “They are a great way to spend a few hours on Pittsburgh’s rivers and see the city from a different perspective on the water.”
The cost is $410 for six people. Group reservations can be found here.
JoAnne Klimovich Harrop is a TribLive reporter covering the region's diverse culinary scene and unique homes. She writes features about interesting people. The Edward R. Murrow award-winning journalist began her career as a sports reporter. She has been with the Trib for 26 years and is the author of "A Daughter's Promise." She can be reached at jharrop@triblive.com.
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