Boating company to offer retro-style cruises on Milwaukee River

A new boating concept is set to launch in downtown Milwaukee this summer.

The business, called Retro Boat MKE, is offering river cruises on two restored 1950s-era boats.

Starting May 1, groups of up to five people can rent the antique Glastrom fiberglass boats for $200 for two-hour cruises down the Milwaukee River. Cruises start from the dock adjoining the CityCenter building, located at 735 N. Water St. 

The boats, donning the names Laverne and Shirley, are powered by eco-friendly, noiseless electric motors, which are “encased in the original antique motor shells that belonged to the boat,” the company said. 

Retro Boat MKE is another enterprise of local entrepreneur Redmond Tuttle, who has embarked on similar ventures in past years including PaddleTavern, Brew Hop MKE and Water Taxi MKE.