America's largest ship built on a landlocked lake

In 1993, Silver Dollar City set out to develop a unique lake attraction, themed after the majestic showboats of the 1800s that brought culture and entertainment to towns along the rivers of America.

The Showboat Branson Belle was constructed right here at White River Landing, and on August 12, 1994, was launched into the waters of Table Rock Lake as part of the nationally publicized Great Banana Launch Watch Party. Two tons of bananas packed the launching rails to provide a biodegradable, natural lubricant in place of substances such as grease or oil. Thus, while preserving the water quality of Table Rock Lake , the 2300 ton ship was able to glide into the water in only 9 seconds - at a speed of 14 knots.

Christened	April 13, 1995
Length	278 feet
Width	78 feet
Height	112 feet to top of stacks
Weight	2,500,000 lbs.
Speed	Peak 11 m.p.h. Avg. 6 m.p.h.
Draft	7.5 feet
Capacity	700 passengers
Paddle Wheels	2 twin wheels, 16 feet wide, 24 feet in diameter